The SAT vs. The ACT: What’s the Difference?
When it comes to college admissions tests, the SAT and ACT are the two most popular options. While they have a lot in common, there are also some key differences that students should be aware of before deciding which one to take. Here’s a breakdown of the similarities and differences between the SAT and ACT:
Format
The SAT has two main sections: Evidence-Based Reading and Writing, and Math. There is also an optional essay section. The test is scored on a scale of 400 to 1600.
The ACT has four main sections: English, Math, Reading, and Science. There is also an optional essay section. The test is scored on a scale of 1 to 36 for each section, and then a composite score is calculated based on the average of the four individual section scores.
Content
Both the SAT and ACT cover similar material, including math, reading, and writing skills. However, the ACT also includes a science section that tests students’ ability to interpret data and analyze scientific information.
The SAT’s math section is more focused on algebra and geometry, while the ACT’s math section goes more in-depth on trigonometry and includes some basic calculus concepts.
Timing
The SAT is a longer test than the ACT, with a total testing time of three hours (+50 minutes for the essay). The ACT, on the other hand, has a total testing time of just under three hours (with an optional 40-minute essay).
The SAT also has more time per question than the ACT, so students who struggle with time management might prefer the SAT. However, the ACT is known for being more fast-paced and might be better suited for students who work quickly.
Scoring
As mentioned earlier, the SAT is scored on a scale of 400 to 1600, with points being awarded for correct answers and deducted for incorrect answers (this penalty is known as “guessing penalty”).
The ACT does not have a guessing penalty and is scored on a scale of 1 to 36 for each section, with the composite score being an average of the four section scores.
Conclusion
Ultimately, the best test for you will depend on your strengths and weaknesses. If you’re not sure which test to take, consider taking practice tests for both the SAT and ACT to see which one you feel more comfortable with. And remember: colleges will accept either test, so don’t stress too much over which one to take – just focus on doing your best!
Table difference between the sat and the act
| Factor | SAT | ACT |
|---|---|---|
| Sections | Reading, Writing and Language, Math (with optional essay) | English, Math, Reading, Science and an optional Writing section |
| Scoring | 400-1600 | 1-36 (composite score) |
| Time | 3 hours (plus 50 minutes for essay) | 2 hours 55 minutes (plus 40 minutes for optional writing section) |
| Math | Emphasis on algebra, geometry, and trigonometry | Emphasis on algebra, geometry, and some trigonometry |
| Science | No separate Science section | Science reasoning section |
| Reading | Measures comprehension skills and analysis of texts | Measures comprehension skills and analysis of texts |
| Writing | Emphasis on grammar, vocabulary, and analysis | Emphasis on grammar, punctuation, and style |
| Essay | Optional but recommended | Optional but recommended |
| Scoring Superscoring allowed | Yes | Yes |