The Score Newsletter, Issue #7: SAT vs. ACT - Choosing the Right Test (Part 3)

In the final installment of this three-part series, I highlight the key differences between the ACT and SAT Math sections and discuss how to weigh them in your decision of which test to take.

Welcome to the final installment of our three-part series, where we're diving deep into the key differences between the SAT and ACT. In our previous discussions, we took a close look at how ACT and SAT Reading stack up against one another. In Part 2, I compared ACT English and SAT Writing and Language, also addressing the unique ACT Science section. Today, we'll be exploring the contrasting features of the SAT Math and ACT Math sections.

SAT Math vs. ACT Math

Both the SAT Math and ACT Math sections test students’ command over a range of mathematical topics including algebra, geometry, and trigonometry. However, they differ in the breadth and depth of content covered, as well as their respective question styles and emphases.

Structure and Timing

The digital SAT math section is a total of 70 minutes, in two 35-minute modules. Each module has 22 questions, for a total of 44 questions, making the average time per question 1 minute, 35 seconds. The ACT Math section is a single block of 60 questions with a 60-minute time allotment which allows the use of a calculator throughout. Test takers have a bit more time per question on the SAT than on the ACT, which may be a deciding factor for students who prefer a less pressured testing experience.

Content Emphasis

The SAT Math section typically goes deeper into fewer topics, with a strong focus on algebra and data analysis within real-world contexts. This may present an advantage to students who excel at interpreting and analyzing data, and applying math concepts to novel scenarios.

In contrast, ACT Math covers a broader range of math topics, including some that are not typically covered on the SAT, such as logarithms, matrices, and more complex geometry and trigonometry.

Additionally, ACT Math questions are generally more straightforward and often involve direct application of math concepts and formulas. Thus, ACT Math could be advantageous to students who are comfortable with a wide range of math topics and prefer more direct problem-solving.

Question Types

SAT Math includes multiple-choice questions and grid-in questions where you must generate and grid your own answers, while all ACT Math questions are multiple-choice. Similar to some of the key differences between the ACT and SAT verbal sections, SAT Math often poses more analytically demanding questions requiring test takers to think critically about how to apply mathematical principles. On the other hand, ACT Math tends to be more straightforward, with questions that test understanding of mathematical concepts more directly.

Choosing Between the ACT and SAT

With these differences in mind, how should they weigh in your decision about which test to take?

Distilling the Differences Between the Math Sections

Students who are comfortable with a more analytical and problem-solving approach, and who have a strong foundation in algebra and data analysis, might find the SAT Math section more to their liking. Conversely, students who prefer direct problem-solving and have a strong foundation across a broad range of math topics might fare better on the ACT Math section.

The differences between the SAT Math and ACT Math should carry significant weight in your decision-making process. This is in addition to the Reading section contrasts we discussed in the first part of this series. The English/Writing and Language sections, while different, should not be the sole determinants, as most students can adapt to either style with practice.

As with the other sections, personal preferences should play a significant role, so ensure that your child or student takes both an official ACT and official SAT before making a final decision. For this stage of the decision-making process, there's no need to take a proctored exam at a test prep center. Completing the exams at home is perfectly acceptable. Official exams can be found in the official guide books or downloaded for free from the College Board and ACT Org websites. Do keep in mind that if you choose to download the tests, it's preferable to print them out. Working directly from a PDF file can present challenges and could potentially skew your results.

Final Thoughts

In the course of this three-part series, we've delved into the main sections of both the SAT and ACT, highlighting their unique features and key differences. Choosing between these two tests is not a decision to be taken lightly. It requires a thorough understanding of the structure, content, and emphasis of each test, combined with a clear awareness of the strengths, weaknesses, and preferences of the test taker.

Remember, the ultimate goal is to showcase your child’s skills and knowledge to colleges and universities. As we've discussed, this could mean opting for the SAT for those who excel at complex problem-solving, rigorous logical analysis, and applying concepts to unfamiliar contexts. Alternatively, if your student thrives with more straightforward questions, isn’t overly intimidated by the ACT’s Science Test, and has a wide-ranging grasp of mathematical concepts, the ACT might be the test that will best highlight their strengths.

While our exploration of the SAT and ACT has been comprehensive, remember that your child’s own individual practice and experience with each test will be the best determinants of which to choose. Official practice tests can be incredibly helpful in giving students a feel for each test, revealing where they might need to focus your preparation, and ultimately, guiding your decision.

Thank you for joining me in this deep dive into the ACT and SAT. I hope this series has provided valuable insights to help guide your path to college admissions success. As always, I'm here to help with any questions or concerns you may have. Until next time, happy prepping!

~ Dave Walker