The SAT vs. ACT Debate – Are You Leveraging Your Strengths or Following the Herd? May 20, 2010
Ian Welham on whether to take the ACT or SAT test
I want to go on record: I’m for less testing of high school students, not more. Between classroom tests, state tests, PSATs, ACTs, SATs, SAT II’s, AP exams, etc., this is the most tested generation in history. I don’t think it’s necessary – or particularly healthy.
However, I’m about to contradict myself. But bear with me – it’s for a good cause.
Here’s one of the most important test questions college bound high school students face.
Should I take:
- the SAT
- the ACT
- both
- neither
In New Jersey, most students give the question little thought. They choose A because that’s the test most of their friends are taking. In so doing, they may be shortchanging themselves.
Studies have shown that how students perform on the SAT can be vastly different than how they perform on the ACT. For example, a student who tests in the top 50% on SAT may test in the top 20% on the ACT. And vice versa. That’s because the tests:
- include different subjects
- test the same material in different ways
- ask questions differently (one is straightforward, one tries to trick you)
- penalizes guessing differently
Usually, students have an affinity for one over the other. The good news is, most colleges today accept either standardized test. So if possible, you might as well take both – and then put your best foot forward. Then again, if you understand how each test works, you might be able to pick one and go with it.
I just posted a new article in the library on this very subject. It explains in more detail the differences (some observable, some more subtle) between these two standardized tests. I think you might find it surprising – and hopefully, useful. You can read it now by clicking on its title: ACT or SAT – Which College Test Should You Take?
