At some point during high school, students are all met with the same question: “Which standardized test should I take?” The ACT and SAT are similar in many ways, and students are often unsure of which test is the better option. After all, both tests are accepted at all major colleges and universities, and they seem to cover the same kind of material. Plus, they’ve both been around for decades, so everybody knows and trusts them.
A deeper analysis reveals that the ACT and SAT are actually two very different exams, from format to subject matter. And the truth is that there isn’t a “better test”; it is up to the student to determine which test best fits their individual strengths and needs. Wondering which test might be the best fit for you? Check out five key differences below.
1. Math section
One key difference between the tests used to be calculator rules, but that’s no longer the case. The Digital SAT now allows a calculator on all math questions, just like the ACT. If you prefer having a calculator available at all times, both exams now offer that flexibility.
In terms of content, the SAT focuses more heavily on algebra, functions, and data analysis, while the ACT covers a broader range of topics including geometry, trigonometry, and some pre‑calculus concepts.
The ACT does not provide a formula sheet, so you’ll need to memorize common formulas before test day.
Related: Academic Compatibility: A Breakdown of the SAT and ACT to Help You Choose a Test
2. The good ol’ Essay
The SAT no longer includes an Essay component; only the ACT offers an optional Writing test.
The ACT Writing prompt presents a topic along with three perspectives, and your task is to analyze the issue, explain your position, and evaluate how the given perspectives relate to your argument. In other words, it’s a persuasive/argumentative essay.
Clear organization, smooth transitions, and strong reasoning matter more than length, so outlining before you write is still one of the best ways to use your 40 minutes effectively.
3. That sneaky Science section
Another big difference between the SAT and the ACT lies in the ACT’s Science section, which the SAT doesn’t offer. Don’t let the word “science” scare you. The Science section is mainly comprised of graph interpretation and data analysis; very few questions will actually test your science knowledge. For students who are weaker in math, the ACT offers a huge advantage. While the Math score comprises 50% of the overall SAT score, due to the presence of the optional Science section on the ACT, Math contributes to your composite score along with English, Reading, and (if you choose to take it) Science. However, the inverse is also true: if a student excels in math, they will probably be better off taking the SAT.
4. Knowledge or critical thinking?
The underlying philosophies of the ACT and the SAT are also very different. While the ACT will ask you more straightforward questions that will test your knowledge, the Digital SAT focuses more on reasoning and critical thinking. On the Math section, for example, this difference might manifest itself in equations versus word problems: the ACT will have more questions that appear as numbers or graphs, whereas the SAT will use more words and scenarios. On the English section, the ACT might ask more questions about grammar and mechanics, while the SAT places more weight on writing clarity, transitions, and expression of ideas.
5. Vicious vocabulary
Although the SAT used to emphasize vocabulary, the Digital SAT no longer tests vocabulary directly. The new Reading & Writing section uses short passages with accessible language—focusing instead on grammar, clarity, transitions, and evidence‑based reasoning. If you’re preparing for the SAT, you’ll get more value from practicing reading comprehension, data interpretation, and writing mechanics than from memorizing vocabulary lists.
Related: Play the CollegeXpress SAT Word Game
No matter which test you take, it’s important to remember to choose one. Many students take both the ACT and SAT multiple times in hopes of getting the best score possible. However, this method divides your efforts and is ineffective in the long run. Instead, choose the test that is better for you and focus all of your energy on improving your score on that test only. That isn’t to say that you can’t take a practice test of each and see where you score higher. In fact, that is often a great way to see which test is best for you. However, once you choose a test, stick to it. Ultimately, you’ll be happy that you did. Best of luck on your exams!
Sources:
- The History of the ACT Test, PrepScholar
- A Brief History of the SAT, PBS
- ACT vs. SAT, StudyPoint
- SAT vs. ACT, The Princeton Review
- SAT Writing/ACT English Section, PrepScholar
- SAT Words Still Matter, The Princeton Review
