Many high school students often ask: Should I take the SAT or ACT? Universities and colleges use both SAT and ACT to evaluate potential students, but there exist some key differences between the two.
The SAT test format vastly differs from the ACT test format. The SAT is split into two parts: Evidence-Based Reading and Writing, along with Math. Conversely, the ACT is divided into English, Math, Reading, and Science sections.
Deciding which test is easier between SAT or ACT test dates ACT depends entirely on a student's strengths and weaknesses. If reading and writing are a student's strong points, then the SAT might be a better fit. Science-minded students, on the other hand, may find the ACT to be a better fit.
Each test also uses a different scoring scale. For the SAT, scores can range from 400 to 1600, on the other hand, the ACT scores from 1 to 36.
SAT and ACT test subjects also noticeably diverge. Reasoning, problem-solving and data analysis are the focus of the SAT math section, whereas the ACT math section spans a wide range of topics from pre-algebra to trigonometry.
The decision to take the SAT or ACT is ultimately dependent on a student's individual strengths and choice. Both tests are accepted by most colleges and universities, therefore, it's advantageous to select the test where you can best demonstrate your strengths. Ultimately, the selection of the test becomes less crucial than how well students can perform on their chosen test.