ACT Vs. SAT
To help you zero in on the right exam, here are some key differences:
1. The ACT is an achievement test, measuring what a student has learned in school. The SAT is more of an aptitude test, testing reasoning and verbal abilities.
2. The ACT has up to 5 components: English, Mathematics, Reading, Science, and an optional Writing test.
The SAT has 3 components: Critical Reading, Mathematics, and an optional Writing test.
3. Both are scored based on the number of correct answers with no penalty for guessing.
4. The ACT has an Interest Inventory that allows students to evaluate their interests in various career options.
ACT questions tend to be more straightforward.5. ACT questions are often easier to understand on a first read. On the SAT, you may need to spend time figuring out what your're being asked before you can start solving the problem.
6. The SAT has a stronger emphasis on vocabulary.
If you're an ardent wordsmith, you'll love the SAT. If words aren't your thing, you may do better with the ACT.
7. The ACT has a Science section, while the SAT does not.
You don't need to know anything about amoebas or chemical reaction for the ACT Science section. It is meant to test your reading and reasoning skills based upon a given set of facts. But if you're a true science-phobe, the SAT might be a better fit.
8. The ACT tests more advanced math concepts.
In addition to basic arithmetic, algebra I and II, and geometry, the ACT tests your knowledge of trigonometry, too. That said, the ACT Math section is not necessarily harder, since many students find the questions to be more straightforward than those on the SAT.
9. The SAT is broken up into more sections.
On the ACT, you tackle each content area (English, Math, Reading, and Science) in one big chunk, with the optional writing test at the end. On the SAT, the content areas (Critical Reading, Math, and Writing) are broken up into sections. You do a little math, a little critical reading, a little more math, etc... When choosing between the SAT and ACT, ask yourself if moving back and forth between content areas confuse you or keep you energized?
10. The ACT is more of a "big picture" exam.
College admissions officers care about how you did on each section of the SAT. On the ACT, they're most concerned about your composite score. So if you're weak in one content area but strong in others, you could still end up with a very good ACT score and thus make a strong impression with the admissions committee.
Information taken from the Princeton Review