ACT vs. SAT: Which Test Should You Take?

Now that you have decided to take the next step on the ladder to your academic journey, getting into a highly prestigious higher college would be your next goal. However, in order to get there, you need to either clear your SAT or ACT. Both these tests are standardized tests which are mandatory for college admissions.

And now the next big question that is overwhelming you is – Which one to opt for – ACT or SAT?

The scores of both are widely accepted in colleges, however, they are different in patterns – mostly, the structure, focus and even content. So, to let go of your anxiousness about which one is good for you, let us break it down in a rather stress-free way to help you with better insights.

ACT vs. SAT: Which one is better for you?

Understanding yourself and the test patterns

It is really important to first analyze your strengths and weaknesses and then make the decision of which one to opt for. Now, both the tests have a different structure and focus on different things, such as:

SAT usually focuses on your logical reasoning, critical thinking capabilities and your problem-solving abilities as well. Its focus is on how good you are at figuring out solutions. And the focus of ACT is how well you manage your time with fast paced and direct questions. So, if you think you are good at math problem solving, or vocabulary, you can opt for the SAT, and if you think you are good at working under pressure or even science is your favorite subject, you can certainly think of the ACT.

Understanding the key differences of the two

Starting with the formats first, the ACT comes in 4 sections – English, Reading, Science and Maths (with an optional writing section), whereas the SAT comes in 2 sections – Evidence based reading comprehension, writing and Maths.

The ACT is more fast paced where you have to solve more questions in less time. And the SAT helps you with more time to think over all your answers analytically.

Even the Maths section in both the tests have a different approach with ACT focusing on a broader range of topics with no calculator use whereas the SAT focuses more on algebra along with data analysis with the use of calculators.

And when it comes to the scores, ACT is scored out of 36 while the SAT is scored out of 1600.

Give it a go

Now, if you still are confused about which one is suitable for you, why not take a practice test of both the SAT and ACT? This way you will have a better understanding of the difference between the two and gain confidence about which one is more apt for you. You can pay attention to the timing of the questions, the format of the tests, the subjects involved, and even the trickiness involved. Also, another important tip: PLease check with the colleges that you wish to apply to, which test do they prefer. Depending upon the same, you can make your decision as well.

Should you go for both?

Well, again it’s an individual preference. If you are sure that you can prepare for both the tests, then 100% go for both, as there would be quite a bit of an overlap with the topics involved. Also, it might happen that the colleges you prefer might want different tests and thus, appearing for both could help.

Still having trouble choosing which one to opt for?

It is really important that you gain more clarity about yourself and your overall capabilities to really be able to choose between the two exams. However, if you have trouble figuring out the same, then you must try going for a coaching institute like EduQuest – one of the best coaching providers for SAT and ACT both.

The best part about joining them is that they will assess you first and then take you through all your weaknesses and strengths and help you willingly to make the best decisions for yourself.

This way they would first help you with your decision making and then train you to give your best with the help of the best industry experts as your mentors, plenty of mock tests that simulate the real tests, constant motivation, boosting your confidence and a well prepared strategy.

ACT vs. SAT: Which Test Should You Take?

Now that you have decided to take the next step on the ladder to your academic journey, getting into a highly prestigious higher college would be your next goal. However, in order to get there, you need to either clear your SAT or ACT. Both these tests are standardized tests which are mandatory for college admissions.

And now the next big question that is overwhelming you is – Which one to opt for – ACT or SAT?

The scores of both are widely accepted in colleges, however, they are different in patterns – mostly, the structure, focus and even content. So, to let go of your anxiousness about which one is good for you, let us break it down in a rather stress-free way to help you with better insights.

ACT vs. SAT: Which one is better for you?

Understanding yourself and the test patterns

It is really important to first analyze your strengths and weaknesses and then make the decision of which one to opt for. Now, both the tests have a different structure and focus on different things, such as:

SAT usually focuses on your logical reasoning, critical thinking capabilities and your problem-solving abilities as well. Its focus is on how good you are at figuring out solutions. And the focus of ACT is how well you manage your time with fast paced and direct questions. So, if you think you are good at math problem solving, or vocabulary, you can opt for the SAT, and if you think you are good at working under pressure or even science is your favorite subject, you can certainly think of the ACT.

Understanding the key differences of the two

Starting with the formats first, the ACT comes in 4 sections – English, Reading, Science and Maths (with an optional writing section), whereas the SAT comes in 2 sections – Evidence based reading comprehension, writing and Maths.

The ACT is more fast paced where you have to solve more questions in less time. And the SAT helps you with more time to think over all your answers analytically.

Even the Maths section in both the tests have a different approach with ACT focusing on a broader range of topics with no calculator use whereas the SAT focuses more on algebra along with data analysis with the use of calculators.

And when it comes to the scores, ACT is scored out of 36 while the SAT is scored out of 1600.

Give it a go

Now, if you still are confused about which one is suitable for you, why not take a practice test of both the SAT and ACT? This way you will have a better understanding of the difference between the two and gain confidence about which one is more apt for you. You can pay attention to the timing of the questions, the format of the tests, the subjects involved, and even the trickiness involved. Also, another important tip: PLease check with the colleges that you wish to apply to, which test do they prefer. Depending upon the same, you can make your decision as well.

Should you go for both?

Well, again it’s an individual preference. If you are sure that you can prepare for both the tests, then 100% go for both, as there would be quite a bit of an overlap with the topics involved. Also, it might happen that the colleges you prefer might want different tests and thus, appearing for both could help.

Still having trouble choosing which one to opt for?

It is really important that you gain more clarity about yourself and your overall capabilities to really be able to choose between the two exams. However, if you have trouble figuring out the same, then you must try going for a coaching institute like EduQuest – one of the best coaching providers for SAT and ACT both.

The best part about joining them is that they will assess you first and then take you through all your weaknesses and strengths and help you willingly to make the best decisions for yourself.

This way they would first help you with your decision making and then train you to give your best with the help of the best industry experts as your mentors, plenty of mock tests that simulate the real tests, constant motivation, boosting your confidence and a well prepared strategy.