Trying to figure out which test is best? Join Shravya as she goes over the main differences between the SAT and ACT, so you can figure out which one is right for you.
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We’ve also posted an abridged transcript below.
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Today, we’ll break down the differences between the two standardized tests so you can make an informed decision on which exam to take!
The SAT consists of three sections: Reading, Writing and Language, and Math. The ACT, meanwhile, consists of five sections: English, Math, Reading, Science, and an optional Essay.
Besides the addition of a science section on the ACT, and some differences in their respective math sections, most of the content on the two tests is actually quite similar.
Ultimately, you’ll still need to make your own decision based on your personal strengths, needs, and preferences. We encourage our students to choose one and focus on it explicitly. This gives you more time to learn the test and the appropriate strategy for it.
Okay, let’s talk time. Both tests are about three hours long. The ACT is about five minutes shorter, but it has significantly more questions on it — meaning you’ll need to move at a much faster pace. The SAT may be better suited to your pacing and strengths if you need more time to consider your answers or don’t wanna have to deal with the pressure of rushing to complete a section.
Now onto exam content. One of the major differences between these two exams is that the SAT doesn’t have a science section. So if science is your jam, the ACT may be better suited to your strengths. That said, the ACT science section doesn’t really measure scientific knowledge. It actually measures skills relevant to science, like data analysis and critical thinking.
While you won’t be asked to memorize the periodic table, your scientific knowledge will still come in handy on this section of the test. If you’re familiar with scientific terminology and are comfortable thinking in those terms, you’ll spend less time thinking about what a question is asking you to do, and more time thinking about the best answer. On a quickly paced test such as the ACT, this can be an important distinction.
You should also think about your strengths in math. The first thing you’ll notice is that the SAT math section includes a portion where you’re not allowed to use a calculator. To be fair, the SAT no-calculator section is relatively straightforward, but if you’re dependent on the wonders of modern technology, the ACT might be a better alternative.
The content of the math sections is also slightly different. The ACT covers a broader base of knowledge with a heavier emphasis on geometry and trig. So, if you excel at these topics, or if you struggle with algebra, your strengths may be better highlighted by the ACT — and vice versa for the SAT.
Now onto location. There are some differences regarding which test is more popular in certain regions. In general, the SAT is more popular with students on the east and west coasts and those in private schools, while the ACT is more popular with students in the midwest and those in public schools.
However, both tests will be accepted at every four-year college in the country. You’ll just want to make sure that you can actually take the test of your choice in your area. If there are no test locations close to your home, you might need to consider the other test or think about travel plans.
You’ll also want to look into whether your state offers an annual in-school test sitting, where the state covers the cost of your test. Also, if you’re concerned about paying for the tests, both the SAT and ACT offer fee waivers for both registration fees and sending score reports.
The last thing you’ll want to consider is the Preliminary SAT, or PSAT. If you took the PSAT as a freshman or sophomore and performed well, then you might consider vying for a National Merit Scholarship. If you do decide to focus on PSAT prep, it only makes sense to choose the SAT over the ACT, since you’ll already be doing SAT-style practice questions.
So there you have it! The main differences between the SAT and ACT. If you’re still not sure which test to pick, consider taking a practice exam in each and seeing how you score.
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