[AMIbunny]

Are they the same?? I heard that ACT is easier. o.o My friend is going to take the ACT instead of SAT. I kind of want to try ACT, but how is it different from SAT?

[xmoogle]

The ACT and SAT are administered by two different companies. People say the ACT is easier since it doesn't dock you off points for wrong questions like the SAT but the science part is a pain in the butt. The SAT covers math, reading, and writing while the ACT covers math, reading, science, english, and writing (optional). The SAT has like 7 sections (I think) while the ACT has 4-5 depending on whether or not you take the optional writing section. The ACT is about 30 minutes shorter than the SAT and fewer people take the ACT since most people take the SATs instead.

[plusone]

^
s/he's got most of it down but i just want to add a little

if you're going to take the ACT, take it with the writing section. most colleges won't accept your ACT score w/o the writing section, so be sure to check. if it doesn't say, just assume they want ACT w/ writing. i havent seen many colleges who take ACT w/o writing section.

ACT is not only 'easier' (for some people) because of no negative points, but because of the test format. people seem to say that ACT's questions are easier, but you are much more pressed for time. the time issue is the most prevalent in the infamous science section... however, if you're willing to take the time to take some practice ACT science sections, and figure out how to approach the test, you wont do too badly on the science section.

[icyhot?]

you don't really need to study for the ACT, in my opinion...it tests what you already know.

[thatonegirl]

yeah...the ACT is easier and you don't get marked down for wrong answers.

[carol]

If you're good with science, take the ACTS.

I was getting horrendous scores on the SATs, they were barely reaching 1800. I took the ACTs (keep in mind that I didn't study for either) and I got a 32.

I got a 34 on the science portion which boosted my score.

Time is a huge factor for the ACTs. The questions are easier but you are very crunched for time.

[*nie_nie*]

Another thing is that the ACTs are most likely to be required for midwest schools and the SATs for East and West coast schools. From what I hear.

-nie