ClearPath Advantage Inc

Every student will encounter a college placement test before at one point during his or her high school career. The choice is between the ACT & SAT. Some students score substantially higher on the SAT, while others fare a lot better on the ACT. This is why it is highly recommended that students understand the differences between the format of the two tests.

What are the differences between the two?

Questions in ACT tend to be more straightforward.

There is a stronger emphasis on vocabulary in SAT.

The writing test is optional in ACT, but something that is required by many colleges.

SAT does not have a Science section, but the ACT does.

Advanced math concepts are added to the ACT test including Trigonometry.

Content areas in SAT are broken up into 10 sections but are delivered in four multiple-choice sections on the ACT.

Changes to the SAT

Are you leaning towards SAT? Know that major changes in Online Sat prep Classes which will be released come spring 2016. According to College Board President and CEO David Coleman, the test is changing because it has become “far too disconnected from the work of our high schools. They’re too stressful for students, too filled with mystery and “tricks” to raise scores and aren’t necessarily creating more college-ready students”.

The new Sat Training standardized test will now have four sections — Math, Evidence-based Reading, Writing, and an optional essay. “We are not interested in students just picking an answer, but justifying their answers”, Coleman added. This shows that the SAT in 2016 would be more challenging than the previous one.

Changes to the ACT

It doesn’t mean that taking the ACT will be an easier option because the test went through changes as well. The revisions to the ACT will be released earlier than that of the SAT. Come fall 2015, the exam will have an enhanced writing test. In the following Spring of 2016, constructed-response subject tests, online administration, new reporting categories, and new readiness scores and indicators will also be introduced to the ACT. Similar to the SAT, redesigning the ACT also aims to benefit students.

So which test should you take? Familiarize yourself with both formats and take one practice test from the ACT and SAT to see if there are major differences in the scores. Remember that it still comes down to which test suits your abilities. Regardless of changes to the exams, your preparation is what will determine whether you will be ready come the day of the test.

When Should I Start Preparing for the ACT?

There is no perfect time to begin studying for the Act Prep Classes. Many students tend to have a rigorous junior year with honors or AP classes. With a school year packed with classes and extracurricular activities, it is difficult to find a few minutes to spare every day.

This is what makes the Summer before Junior Year an optimal time to start taking practice tests, going over different content topics, and, if necessary, joining a prep course. Enough time is available to go over math formulas, reading section strategies, grammar principles, etc. Many tests can be taken during the summer to make sure you are gaining endurance for the actual test. Yes, the summer is meant for a break from school and a catch-up for all those naps that you missed out on during the school year. However, would you rather take multiple practice tests during the school year? Does it make sense to cram in ACT review when you have so much homework to finish every day?

This is why I always recommend getting a head start before junior year. You will be able to take your first ACT test during the Fall of Junior Year. Once you get your score you have many options to take another test, if needed, in the Winter months or Spring. This gives ample time to raise your score and reach the goal you have set.