Is it easier to improve your ACT or SAT scores?

Let’s face it: Choosing between the ACT and the SAT can be challenging, as both are crucial elements of the college admissions process. With endless resources and opinions available about both standardized tests, knowing where to allocate your study time can be challenging.

Determining which test is “easier” to achieve a higher score on depends on your comfort level with each exam. To streamline your prep and maximize results, it’s important to identify whether the SAT or the ACT better fits your strengths. This decision hinges on understanding the main differences between exams and their scoring systems. Before we dive into which test is better for you, let’s take a closer look at the primary components of each exam.

The ACT

The ACT is a nationally recognized standardized test measuring college readiness. It features four core ACT sections (English, Mathematics, Reading, and Science), as well as an optional essay section. The ACT is known for its rapid pace, with more sections to complete in a shorter time frame than the SAT. This exam, when taken without the optional writing section, is designed to last 2 hours and 55 minutes, challenging students to efficiently manage their time across all ACT sections.

Each ACT section contributes to your overall ACT scores, which are a critical component of the college admission process. ACT scores range from 1 to 36 for each section and for the composite score, providing colleges with a clear measure of student achievement. Many test-takers appreciate the ACT for its shorter, more direct questions and straightforward format, which can make it easier to interpret what each question is asking.

Reviewing an ACT scores chart can help you understand how your performance compares to that of other students. The table below displays ACT score percentiles for each section and the whole exam (columns 2 through 6) and corresponding scaled scores (column 1). Percentile ranks for each score represent the percentage of students who achieved the same or lower scores:

Source: act.org

By understanding the ACT's structure, knowing its sections' breakdown, and familiarizing yourself with its score range, you can better prepare for test day and set your sights on achieving your target score.

The SAT

The SAT test is a well-known standardized exam designed to assess college readiness and academic preparedness. Unlike the four sections on the ACT, the SAT has only two main sections: the Reading and Writing section and the Math section. Each subsection is further divided into two subsections that remain focused on their respective subject areas. The SAT format sets the total exam time at approximately 2 hours and 14 minutes.

The SAT is recognized for its lengthier, more complex questions compared to those on the ACT. These questions often require deeper analysis and critical thinking, meaning test-takers may need to spend more time on each item to ensure a thorough understanding.

In addition to understanding the format of the SAT sections, it’s important to know that the SAT scores range from 400 to 1600, which can help put individual performance into perspective for college admission. Here are SAT scores and corresponding percentiles:

Source: collegeboard.org

Source: collegeboard.org

In summary, those comparing exams will notice that question style, time per section, and scoring differ between these two major tests.

SAT vs. ACT comparison chart

Score concordance tables display the relative relationship between similar exams, allowing you to convert a score from one exam to another. The ACT and SAT score comparison chart below includes ACT scores and their equivalent SAT score range, as calculated by the official ACT Education Corp.

While these charts are useful for getting a sense of how well you’d do on one exam based on your performance on another, they are estimates, not perfect predictions:

Source: act.org

So, which test is easier to improve your score on?

Is the SAT or ACT easier? It really depends on the type of test taker you are and your strengths as a student. This may be a frustrating answer, but exploring what you are good at and not good at academically could point you in the right direction regarding which test you’re more likely to see score improvements on.

Cases where your ACT score might be easier to improve

While there is no single answer that fits every student, choosing between the ACT and the SAT often depends on your academic strengths and how you approach standardized tests. For students with a strong background in science, the ACT can be a more effective choice for improved score performance. This is because, unlike the SAT, the ACT features a dedicated science section. The SAT only includes science-related questions within its Reading and Writing section, which focus more on reading comprehension than direct scientific knowledge. If science is where you excel, the ACT may be the better test to help you maximize your score within the available ACT score range.

Students who find themselves confused by complex question wording may benefit from the more straightforward question formats on the ACT. The SAT often presents longer questions that require higher-level critical thinking and comprehension, which can impact your SAT score range if these are not your strengths. On the other hand, the ACT tends to use simpler language and direct questions, making it easier for some students to focus and boost their ACT scores. If you perform better with concise questions and struggle less with understanding what is being asked, focusing your efforts on the ACT could offer the greatest potential for improvement. This strategy not only helps maximize your ACT scores but also enhances your chances of achieving a competitive score for college admission.

Cases where the SAT might be easier for improvement

Although the ACT may be favorable for some students seeking to improve their results, there are situations where this approach may not be the best fit. Students who are highly gifted in math often find that the SAT’s structure aligns more closely with their strengths, especially since 50% of the test is comprised of mathematics. While math is part of the ACT, it accounts for a smaller proportion of the test. If mathematics is your top subject, focusing on improving your SAT score can lead to greater results.

Similarly, if reading comprehension and critical thinking are your strong suits, prioritizing the SAT can enhance your performance. Not only does the Reading and Writing section represent half of your potential score, but the math questions also require advanced reading and analytical abilities. Because the SAT emphasizes critical thinking throughout, students who excel in this area are more likely to achieve scores at the upper end of the SAT score range.

Conclusion

Deciding which standardized exam to take for college admissions is a profoundly personal and significant decision. Understanding the specific differences between the ACT and SAT can help you determine which test format aligns best with your strengths and academic background. The ACT offers direct science reasoning and shorter, straightforward questions, making it ideal for students who thrive under timed conditions. In contrast, the SAT emphasizes critical thinking through longer reading passages and a broader math focus.

Instead of assuming one test guarantees an easier path to better scores, it’s better to honestly assess your individual academic strengths and areas for growth. Knowing whether the ACT’s or the SAT’s structure matches your abilities will enable you to channel your study efforts most effectively. By evaluating your comfort level with key sections, you can make an informed decision about which exam to prioritize.

Whether you succeed by boosting your ACT scores or excel by focusing on the SAT, self-awareness and targeted preparation are your most powerful assets. This thoughtful approach will guide you toward achieving your college admission goals and navigating the complexities of standardized testing with confidence.