ACT vs. SAT - How to decide?

Most students do comparably well on both the ACT and the SAT I. However, some feel much more comfortable with the ACT, others with the SAT. The only way to decide which test to go with is to take some mock tests with us and compare not only the scores but also how you feel with each test. Once the mock scores are in, we will be able to help you decide which test may be better to take.

You can start tutoring for either test even before you make a decision about which test to take since the basic test prep techniques are the same for both tests. Some students will want to prep for and take both the ACT and the SAT. There is nothing wrong with this, although it can add to the stress of junior year to have two different tests to prepare for.

Important facts to know about the ACT:

• The ACT Assessment is now accepted by all colleges and universities in the U.S., including all of the Ivy League schools, except for eight schools in Texas.
• The ACT is scored based on the number of answers right with no negative correction for wrong answers
• Students can take the ACT as many times as they wish - the ACT will release to colleges only the set of scores that the students ask them to. Some colleges now are even mixing and matching ACT section scores from different test administrations (like they do with SAT scores).
• Note: You should generally register for the ACT with Writing - some colleges will require the Writing Test; others will not. Most colleges will accept scores from the Writing Test even if they do not require it.

If you are weak in math: Most students tell us that they find the ACT math much easier than the SAT math, more approachable, and more straightforward. ACT math does cover concepts up through trig unlike the SAT, but the ACT is not as logic based as the SAT. If you know your math formulas and equations on the ACT and can plug in numbers and solve, you'll generally do very well.

If you are weak in verbal skills: The ACT seems to be more reading-based than the SAT I, especially since ACT English is tested using passages rather than discrete sentences (found on the SAT). Also, the ACT Science section is really a reading comprehension section, where you are asked to "read" and interpret graphs, charts, and data - you have to know very little science, in fact, to do well on the ACT Science section.

If you have any difficulty with timing on standardized tests (i.e. finishing on time), you will usually find that you have much more difficulty with the ACT than you do with the SAT. The ACT packs a lot more material into each section.

Come take a mock with us before the start of 11th grade and we'll help you decide which test is best for you!