ACT or SAT - What's the difference?

Hi everyone! I'm a little bit stressed about deciding whether to take the ACT or SAT. Can someone explain the main differences between these two tests, and maybe suggest which one might be better suited for me? Thanks in advance!

Hi there! It's understandable that you're feeling stressed about deciding between the ACT and SAT. Here's a rundown of the main differences between the two tests, which should help you decide which one might be a better fit for you:

1. Test Structure and Scoring:

SAT:

- Sections: Evidence-Based Reading & Writing and Math

- Scoring: Composite score ranges from 400 to 1600 (sum of two section scores, each ranging from 200 to 800)

- Fully digital format

ACT:

- Sections: English, Math, Reading, and Science

- Scoring: Composite score ranges from 1 to 36 (average of four section scores, each ranging from 1 to 36)

- Optional Writing section scored separately, resulting in a 2-12 score

- Paper-and-pencil format

2. Content and Skills:

SAT:

- Focuses on critical thinking, problem-solving, and evidence-based reading

- Math section covers arithmetic, algebra, geometry, data analysis, and some trigonometry, with an emphasis on algebra

- Reading section includes passages based on literature, historical documents, social sciences, and natural sciences

ACT:

- Considers English and Math more separate from Reading and Science

- Math section is more comprehensive, covering broader range of math topics, including trigonometry and basic statistical concepts

- Science section tests your ability to interpret, analyze, and problem-solve with scientific data; it doesn't require specific scientific knowledge

- Reading section features passages in four categories: prose fiction, social science, humanities, and natural science

3. Test Timing and Pace:

SAT:

- Total testing time: 3 hours (excluding breaks)

- Reading and Writing: two 32-minute modules with 54 total questions

- Math: two 35-minute modules with 44 total questions

ACT:

- Total testing time: 2 hours and 55 minutes (excluding breaks; 3 hours and 35 minutes with optional Writing section)

- English: 45 minutes for 75 questions

- Math: 60 minutes for 60 questions

- Reading: 35 minutes for 40 questions

- Science: 35 minutes for 40 questions

Some factors that could help you decide which test might be better suited for you include:

- Pace: If you're comfortable with a faster testing pace, the ACT might be a better fit.

- Math Proficiency: SAT has a stronger emphasis on algebra, whereas the ACT covers a broader range of math topics. So, depending on your math strengths, one test might be easier for you than the other.

- Science Reasoning: If you enjoy analyzing scientific data or have strong critical thinking skills, the ACT Science section might benefit you.

- Test Format: The SAT is fully digital, while the ACT is paper-and-pencil based. Consider which format you feel more comfortable with.

Remember that both tests are universally accepted by colleges, so it's about finding the test that best aligns with your strengths and preferences. Make sure to take practice tests (like the official ones provided by the College Board for the SAT and ACT, Inc. for the ACT) to see which test you feel more confident in and perform better on. Good luck!