Should I take the SAT or ACT?

The new SAT and ACT are very similar, but there are a few differences to consider. Students may choose to take the test that best aligns with their strengths. 

PICK THE SAT IF...

• You hate science.
  • The SAT does not have a science section, but it does incorporate skills related to science into their sections. For example, it will ask you to analyze charts and graphs, and two of the reading passages will be on scientific topics.
  • The ACT science section does not actually test science knowledge. Instead, it tests your ability to understand scientific data in the form of visuals (graphs, scattergrams, charts and diagrams). There is one question without visuals that will test your reading comprehension.
    
    
• You like algebra more than geometry.
  • Algebra constitutes 61% of the math questions (manipulating equations and expressions, writing equations to solve word problems, solving quadratics, and working with formulas).
  • 6 questions will be on geometry and trigonometry
    
    
• You are not a “fast” test-taker and need more time to consider your answers.
  • The SAT asks 154 questions in 3 hours (plus 50 minutes for the optional essay).
  • The ACT asks 215 questions in 2 hours and 55 minutes (plus 40 minutes for the optional essay).
  • SAT questions will get more difficult as the test progresses. ACT questions maintain a constant level of difficulty.
    
    

• You are a strong reader with strong analytical skills.
  • Reading passages in the SAT are more complex and language may be more challenging. It will include excerpts from U.S. founding documents, historically important works and Western canon.
  • Two passages will include scientific topics and with charts and figures.
  • The ACT is more a reading comprehension test.
    ​
• You are taking an AP English class.
  • SAT’s optional essay requires three skills: reading, analysis and writing. It wants testers to dissect an argument and support their reasoning. It does not want an “opinion.”
  • ACT asks for an opinion or position on an issue.

PICK THE ACT IF...

• You like the idea of using the calculator for all your math questions.
  • The SAT has a no-calculator section that is 25 minutes, 20 questions.
  • The calculations are not difficult. It also has a calculator section that is 55 minutes, 38 questions.
    ​
• You prefer all multiple-choice questions for math.
  • The SAT math section includes 13 questions that require written or fill-in-the-blank answers.
    
    
• ​You like geometry and trigonometry more than algebra. 
  • Geometry and trig questions will constitute 40-55% of the ACT questions.
    
    
• You are a “fast” test-taker.
  
  
• If your vocabulary skills are weak, although your language skills may be good.
  • The Reading section is more about comprehension.
  • The SAT Reading section is more about analysis and evidence support and argument construction.
  • SAT reading passages may be more complex.
    ​
• Your grammar knowledge is strong.
  • The English section of the ACT places more emphasis on grammar and conventions (usage and mechanics), including sentence structure, grammar and punctuation.
  • SAT emphasizes more writing style and argument ("Expression of Ideas"). 

​Courtesy of Lelaine Paik


​

BACK TO ALL RESOURCES