One of the common questions many high school students ask is: SAT vs ACT, which one is superior? 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 divided into two sections: Evidence-Based Reading & Writing and Math. In contrast, the ACT is comprised of four sections: English, Math, Reading, and Science.
Students' strengths and weaknesses determine which test is easier, the SAT or ACT. If reading and writing are a student's strong points, then the SAT might be a better fit. 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 additional resources to 36.
The subjects tested differ between SAT and ACT. The SAT math section emphasizes reasoning, problem-solving and data analysis, on the other hand, the ACT math section tests a wide array of topics from pre-algebra up to trigonometry.
Deciding which test to take - SAT or ACT - is ultimately a matter of personal choice. 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.