Comparing ACT and SAT

Hey, fellow students! I was just wondering about something...which test is generally easier to do well on, ACT or SAT? And by 'easier,' I mean in terms of content, format, and scoring. Any advice or insights?

Both the ACT and SAT are standardized tests aimed at assessing your readiness for college. Choosing which test is easier depends largely on you and your strengths.

Let's break down the differences in content, format, and scoring:

Content: The SAT focuses heavily on math and evidence-based reading and writing. It's generally considered a test of reasoning and analysis. On the other hand, the ACT has a science section and its math section covers more topics than the SAT, including a small amount of trigonometry. The ACT is typically more a test of knowledge recall rather than problem-solving.

Format: The ACT has four sections: English, Math, Reading, and Science, whereas the SAT consists of two main sections: Math and Evidence-Based Reading and Writing. The SAT tends to have lengthier questions across all sections, requiring comprehensive reading and critical thinking, while ACT questions are generally more straightforward and concise, but you get less time to answer each question on the ACT.

As of Spring 2024, both tests are digital, and the structure is as follows:

SAT - Reading and Writing: two 32-minute modules, to complete 54 questions. Math: two 35-minute modules, to complete 44 questions.

ACT - English: 30 minutes to complete 44 questions, Math: 40 minutes to complete 36 questions, Reading: 35 minutes to complete 36 questions, Science: 35 minutes to complete 36 questions

Scoring: The SAT is scored on a scale of 400–1600, and the ACT is scored on a scale of 1–36. The SAT gives you more points per correct answer but also has more questions so the score range is broader.

Which test will be easier for you depends on your personal strengths and study habits. If you're strong in science or appreciate a faster pace, you might prefer the ACT. If you're a good problem-solver or excel in math, you might find the SAT more to your liking. The best advice would be to take a sample test of each to see which one suits your style better.