You're facing a choice: ACT or SAT?
And naturally, you want to know which one is easier. The honest answer is that neither test is inherently easier than the other. What matters is which test plays to your strengths.
Both exams assess what you're learning in school, and colleges accept either one equally. So the real question isn't which test is easier overall, but which test will be easier for you specifically.
Understanding the key differences between the ACT and SAT helps you see which might be a better fit.
The ACT moves faster. You'll have about 49 seconds per question on the ACT compared to 82 seconds per question on the SAT. The faster pace means you need to make decisions quickly and keep moving, even when a question feels challenging.
The SAT gives you more time to think. With nearly 70% more time per question than the ACT, you can work through complex problems more carefully. You'll also have a built-in graphing calculator and reference formulas for the math section.
The ACT has a Science section. While the Science section doesn't test detailed scientific knowledge, it does require you to interpret charts, graphs, and data quickly. If you're comfortable reading scientific information and drawing conclusions from visual data, the Science section might not feel like an obstacle.
The SAT keeps reading passages short. Each reading passage on the SAT is brief, with just one question attached. On the ACT, you'll read longer passages with multiple questions, which means you need to remember details and maintain focus across several questions per passage.
Your personal strengths and preferences matter more than any general comparison.
Consider your pace under pressure. Some students thrive when moving quickly through questions, while others need time to think deeply about each one. If you prefer working at a steadier pace, the SAT's timing might feel more comfortable. If you can process information rapidly and make quick decisions, the ACT's faster pace might not bother you.
Think about your math comfort zone. Both tests cover similar math concepts, but the ACT tends to include more geometry and trigonometry questions. The SAT leans more heavily on algebra. Where do your math strengths lie?
Reflect on your reading style. Do you naturally remember where specific details appear in what you've read? Or do you prefer having just one focused question to answer at a time? Your reading habits can influence which test feels more natural.
Note your science background. If you're used to reading scientific data and feel comfortable with charts and graphs, the ACT Science section might showcase your strengths rather than create extra work.
According to ACT Inc., students who take both tests often score similarly when their results are converted to the same scale. What varies is how comfortable students feel during the testing experience itself, which can affect performance on test day.
The most reliable way to know which test will work better for you is to take a full-length practice test of each. Score both tests and compare your results using a score conversion chart. You'll quickly see which format allows you to show what you know more effectively.
Many students who feel uncertain about their test preparation path benefit from taking both practice tests early. Once you know which test suits you better, you can focus your energy on preparing for that specific exam.
You might also want to consider your timeline. If you're deciding when to start your test prep, knowing which test you'll take helps you create a more focused study plan.
While you can certainly take both the ACT and SAT, most students find that focusing on one test leads to better results. Once you've identified which test matches your strengths, dedicating your preparation time to mastering that format makes more sense than splitting your energy between two different exams.
Some students do take both tests, especially if they're applying to programs with specific testing preferences or if they want to maximize scholarship opportunities. But for most, choosing one test and preparing thoroughly for it proves to be the more effective strategy.
Regardless of which test you choose, feeling prepared makes all the difference. When you understand the test format, have practiced under realistic conditions, and have developed strategies for managing your time and energy, test day feels less overwhelming.
Whether you're working on improving your SAT reading score or navigating the ACT preparation checklist, having a clear plan helps you approach test day with confidence.
At LifeWorks, we help students develop not just test-taking skills but also the time management, focus, and resilience that serve them well beyond any single exam. Our test preparation approach considers your whole self, not just your test scores, because we know that when you feel supported and capable, you naturally perform better.
Get in touch to learn how we can help you prepare with confidence.
