Many high school students often ask: Should I take the SAT or ACT? Both the SAT and ACT are standardized tests that universities and colleges use to assess prospective students, but there exist some key differences between the two.
The SAT test format vastly differs from the ACT test format. The SAT is divided into two sections: Evidence-Based Reading & Writing and Math. In contrast, the ACT is comprised of four sections: English, Math, Reading, and Science.
Deciding which test is easier between SAT or ACT depends entirely on a student's strengths and weaknesses. Students with robust reading and writing expertise might find the SAT more suitable. Alternatively, science-oriented students might have an edge with the ACT.
The SAT and ACT also diverge in terms of scoring scales. The SAT scoring scale stretches from 400 to 1600, while the ACT score ranges from 1 to 36.
SAT and ACT test subjects also noticeably diverge. The How to prepare for SAT SAT math focuses greatly on reasoning, problem-solving and data analysis abilities, while the ACT math section covers topics from pre-algebra to trigonometry.
Choosing whether to take SAT or ACT truly depends on an individual's preferences. Most colleges and universities accept either SAT or ACT scores, so pick the exam that best represents your abilities. In the end, what matters most is not which test students take, but how well they do on it.