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 structure of the SAT test differs markedly from that of the ACT. The SAT is split into two parts: Evidence-Based Reading and Writing, along with Math. On the other hand, the ACT incorporates English, Math, Reading, and Science.
The question of whether the SAT or ACT is easier varies, depending on the student's personal strengths and deficits. The SAT may be more suitable for students with strong reading and writing skills. Alternatively, science-oriented students might have an edge with the ACT.
Each test also uses a different scoring scale. For the SAT, scores can range from 400 to 1600, while the ACT score ranges 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, 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. Both tests are accepted by most colleges and universities, therefore, it's advantageous to select ACT test dates the test where you can best demonstrate your strengths. In the end, what matters most is not which test students take, but how well they do on it.