Understanding Numbers

Numbers are the building blocks of mathematics! On the ACT, you'll work with integers, fractions, decimals, and percents. Knowing how to compare, convert, and operate with these different types is key.

Main Types of Numbers

• Integers: Positive and negative whole numbers (…,-3, -2, -1, 0, 1, 2, 3,…)
• Fractions: Parts of a whole, like \( \frac{3}{4} \)
• Decimals: Another way to write fractions, like 0.75
• Percents: Out of 100, like 75%

Operations

The ACT expects you to add, subtract, multiply, and divide all these types, sometimes converting between them.

Real-World Connection

Numbers and operations come up in shopping, banking, and cooking. You use them to calculate totals, split bills, or follow recipes.

Tips

• Always align decimals when adding or subtracting.
• To compare fractions, convert them to decimals or a common denominator.