Author: tonson

ACT or SAT

  1. ACT has science section
  2. If you’re good at algebra and data analysis, you’ll likely do well on the SAT. But if you’re a fan of trig functions and geometry and are comfortable with matrices and logs, the ACT is a better choice.
  3. Here’s another math-related difference: the SAT provides you with a diagram of math formulas, whereas the ACT does not. 
  4. SAT gives you more time per question than the ACT does. 
  5. Unlike the ACT for which you may use a calculator on all Math questions, the SAT contains a Math “No Calculator” subsection for which you may not use a calculator
  6. Are you good at pinpointing areas in texts to support your answers to questions? If so, the SAT might be a better fit for you.
  7. SAT Reading questions are generally easier to follow and thus easier to answer than ACT Reading questions. 
  8. Which essay type is easier for you depends on what you’re better at and more comfortable with writing. With the SAT, you’ll need to have good reading comprehension skills in order to fully realize the strengths and weaknesses of the author’s argument. On the other hand, with the ACT, you need to be able to effectively compare and contrast different perspectives on an issue as well as give ample evidence to support your opinion.

Take an SAT vs ACT Quiz

Another way you can determine which test is right for you is to take a short quiz. In the chart below, check whether you agree or disagree with each statement.

StatementAgreeDisagree
I struggle with geometry and trigonometry.  
I am good at solving math problems without a calculator.  
Science is not my forte.  
It’s easier for me to analyze something than to explain my opinion.  
I normally do well on math tests.  
I can’t recall math formulas easily.  
I like coming up with my own answers for math questions.  
Tight time constraints stress me out.  
I can easily find evidence to back up my answers.  
Chronologically arranged questions are easier to follow.  

Mostly Agrees — The SAT is your match!

If you agreed with most or all of the above statements, the SAT is what you’ve been looking for. With the SAT, you’ll have more time for each question and won’t need to deal with a pesky science section or a ton of geometry questions.

Mostly Disagrees — The ACT’s the one for you!

If you disagreed with most or all of the statements, you’ll most likely prefer the ACT over the SAT. On the ACT, you’ll never have to come up with your own answers to math problems, and you get to let your opinion shine in your writing.

Equal Agrees and Disagrees — Either test will work!

If you checked “Agree” and “Disagree” an equal number of times, either the ACT or SAT will suit you. Unless you decide to take both, I suggest taking official ACT and SAT practice tests (as described in #1 above) to see which test’s format you’re ultimately more comfortable with.

SAT

ACT