Many high school students often ask: Should I take the SAT or ACT? Universities and colleges use both SAT and ACT to evaluate potential students, despite the resemblances, a few critical variations exist between them.
The SAT test format vastly differs from the ACT test format. The SAT is split into two parts: Evidence-Based Reading and Writing, along with Math. Conversely, the ACT is divided into English, Math, Reading, and Science sections.
Students' strengths and weaknesses determine which test is easier, the SAT or ACT. 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. The SAT scoring scale stretches from 400 to 1600, on the other hand, the ACT scores from 1 to 36.
The subjects tested differ between SAT and ACT. Reasoning, problem-solving and data analysis are the focus of the SAT math section, whereas the ACT math section spans a wide range of topics from pre-algebra to trigonometry.
Deciding which test to take - SAT or ACT - is ultimately a matter of personal choice. Most colleges understand more and universities accept either SAT or ACT scores, therefore, it's advantageous to select the test where you can best demonstrate your strengths. Ultimately, what's most important isn't the test you take, but your performance on your chosen examination.