How are the SAT and ACT similar?

The SAT and ACT have many similarities: the skills and content tested are mostly the same! Both tests have questions testing Reading Comprehension, Writing and Language Skills, and Mathematics. The scores are calculated differently, but you can use a Concordance Table to compare your scores.

Digital Testing

The new SAT is a digital test! There’s a lot of major changes to consider with the new format. Check out our digital SAT guide to learn more.

The ACT has opted to give students the option of digital or paper testing. Unlike the SAT, the ACT digital format will be identical to the paper format!

The ACT Science Section

One key difference is the standout ACT Science Section. This may seem like a major outlier compared to the SAT, but the ACT Science Section tests skills that show up frequently on the SAT Reading and Math sections. The ACT Science Section tests science comprehension and data analysis, without an emphasis of memorizing scientific facts and knowledge.

How else are the SAT and ACT different?

There are important stylistic differences:

• The SAT is trickier than the ACT. The test makers challenge students by trapping them with enticing wrong answers and common “high school student errors.”

• The ACT is faster paced than the SAT. The test makers challenge students by rushing them to complete quicker (but more straightforward) sections.

Which test should I take?

At Capstone, we have a simple recommendation: take both! Because the content is so similar, any preparation you do for one test will put you in a good position to excel on both tests.

After your first round of testing, you can make a more informed decision about which test to focus on when you retest, and you’ll be glad you gave yourself more options.