One of the common questions many high school students ask is: SAT vs ACT, which one is superior? Both the SAT and ACT serve as measures for colleges and universities to assess aspiring 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 SAT vs ACT for humanities students 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, while the ACT score ranges 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.
The decision to take the SAT or ACT is ultimately dependent on a student's individual strengths and choice. Both tests are accepted by most colleges and universities, therefore, it's advantageous to select 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.