Pros and Cons of ACT Test vs. SAT Test - Which to Take

The SAT includes 4 main sections: Reading, Writing & Language, Math (No Calculator), and Math (Calculator). The test lasts 3 hours and is scored out of 1600, which is broken down to 800 for Math and 800 for Evidence-Based Reading & Writing. The SAT has an emphasis on reasoning and problem-solving in both the English and Math sections. The SAT allows for more time per question and is an overall slower paced test than the ACT. Since you get more time per question in the SAT, it is a better test for students who may prefer this slightly slower pace.

The SAT also focuses on logic and reasoning with questions often emphasizing problem-solving and critical thinking. This means that you don’t necessarily have to memorize content, but rather can logically work through the problems. Another pro of the SAT for many students is that there is no science section. While data interpretation questions may appear as a math or reading question, there is no dedicated section to data analysis. Finally, since the SAT includes two math sections, you will be tested comprehensively. While there may be more math, you may see questions that you are more familiar with.

While the SAT has lots of pros that students may prefer over the ACT, there are also some cons. First, SAT questions may include abstract or trickier wording that may be hard to understand. So while the SAT tests your reasoning, it may be hard to decipher exactly what the question is asking.

Some students find this is the case particularly with the calculator math section. One of the biggest cons of the SAT is the heavy focus on math. Some students really like all the math, but if you struggle with math, the SAT math sections may actually be a disadvantage. Remember, the two math sections account for half of the total points possible. You may also find yourself starting to fatigue towards the end of the second math section as the test is quite long. Lastly, the SAT includes fewer subject areas (no science) so if you are weaker in one section, you have fewer chances to make up for it in other sections.

The biggest challenge for most students when taking the ACT is the fast pace. Most sections will be a time crunch and there is hardly time for you to double check your answers. Next, while the ACT has less math than the SAT, the math concepts tested on the ACT are usually harder. For example, you may get some more advanced trigonometry questions on the ACT. But remember, math is only worth a quarter of this test compared to worth a half on the SAT.

Lastly, the science section can be a challenging section for students who are taking the ACT. Like I mentioned earlier, the ACT science isn’t testing your knowledge on science, but rather data interpretation. However, some students may find this difficult and can struggle with the analysis questions.

I would love to be able to tell you which test to take, however, it really is a personal preference on which test you align better with. I would recommend the SAT if you are strong in reasoning, want a slower paced test, and are really strong in math. The ACT may be good for students who excel in data interpretation, quick comprehension, and want a faster paced test. One of the best tips I have is to take a full-length practice test for both. You will start to understand how the questions are set up and you will feel which one you are more comfortable with. Happy test taking and good luck!