There are so many different opinions about which of these two tests to take. Both are accepted by colleges, but which is best for the person taking the test?

In order to answer this question, the taker will need to consider options that refer to himself/herself only to choose the best one for them. Listening to others is good, but this is a decision that is best made by the student taking the test. Truthfully, it’s all about the numbers. While some students scare better on the SAT, others will score better on the ACT. Consider the facts in this article to help make the best decision. Also, be aware that the Princeton Review offers a free assessment to help determine which test is best for the individual. This test is given nationwide.  Go to www.princetonreview.com  to find when the test will be given in your area.

Follow up:

The analysis:
ACT- Questions tend to be more straightforward, and are often easier to understand on a first read. Question: In your view, should police be more tolerant of vagrants?

SAT – More time will be needed to spend figuring out exactly what is being asked. Then one can start solving the problem. Question: What is your view of the claim that an unsuccessful person can still have some value?

SAT –The SAT places a higher emphasis on vocabulary than the ACT.

ACT - The ACT does have a Science section, but it is a part of the reading and reasoning skills. It is based upon a given set of facts. If one’s science skills are lacking, the SAT would be the better of the choices.

ACT - The ACT also requires more math knowledge than the SAT. Knowledge of trigonometry, algebra, and geometry are required. SAT requires algebra and geometry only. Considering that the questions on the ACT are much more straightforward than SAT, the math section is not necessarily harder on the ACT.

ACT - The ACT does not require a writing test. The optional ACT writing test is 30 minutes in length. One’s score is not revealed in the composite score. However, schools will see it listed separately. The SAT does require a 25 minute essay which is factored into the writing score
SAT - The SAT is divided into more sections than the ACT.  The content areas (Critical Reading, Math, and Writing) are broken into ten sections and one essay is written. The test taker is required to move back and forth between different content areas.  Thus the test taker will be given a few math problems, switch to a few critical reading problems, and then go back to more math problems or precede to a writing section. The math test is not one block. The critical reading test is not one block nor is the writing.  If this bothers the taker, he/she should not consider the SAT. If one finds the breaks refreshing, he/she will do fine on the SAT.

ACT - Needless to say, the ACT is more of a big block exam.
When college admissions officers review one’s SAT test, they will carefully weigh each section and test taker’s scores on each section before making a decision. College admissions officers for the ACT are more concerned with one’s composite score. This means that if one is weak in one content area but strong in others, he/she could still end up with a very good ACT score.

Make a personal assessment of skills and weakness before making the decision. Do take practice tests of both. Consider the options. Choose the ACT or SAT with conviction.