SAT and ACT: What They Are, What They Aren't, and How to Approach Them Strategically

Let me start by saying this clearly.

No, I do not believe these tests determine how smart, successful, or determined your child is.

Unfortunately, they are standardized baseline tests that some colleges still use as part of their admissions decision. That’s just the reality.

There are plenty of colleges that are test optional. If that’s the case, understand that the other parts of the application may carry even more weight. That could include:

• Graded writing samples

• Letters of recommendation

• Counselor recommendations

• GPA trends

• Course rigor

In some cases, tests may be optional for admission but still used to determine merit scholarships. So before you dismiss testing entirely, make sure you understand how the colleges on your list use scores.

First: Know the Difference Between the SAT and ACT

Both are standardized tests, but they do not test the same way.

ACT

I’ve always explained the ACT like this: it wants to know whether you learned what you were supposed to learn. The questions are more direct. It’s faster paced but now the science portion is an optional add-on. Most colleges no longer require it, but make sure to double check before you sign up.

Timing is tighter. Sections are shorter, typically around 35 minutes each. This can work well for students who struggle with long stretches of focus or get bored quickly.

Also, you can still take the paper/pencil version for the ACT or opt for the digital version.

SAT

The SAT is also testing whether you’ve learned the material, but it goes a step further. It wants to know whether you’re ready to think at a college level.

I always say the SAT is like a Christmas present wrapped inside three or four boxes. The question is straightforward, but you have to unwrap layers to get to what they are actually asking.

Students are given more time per section, which can be helpful for those who prefer a bit more time to process and think deeply.

SAT is now the digital SAT and only offered to take on a computer or tablet.

Consider the Pacing

• SAT pacing: Approximately 71 seconds per question in Reading & Writing and 95 seconds per question in Math.

  
  

• ACT pacing: Roughly 36–60 seconds per question depending on the section.

That difference alone can determine which test feels better.

Take Both Before Deciding

I always recommend taking both tests once to establish a baseline.

After you receive the score reports, look at:

• Which test you scored higher on

• Which test felt more comfortable

• Where your strengths naturally showed up

Once you determine that, focus on that test moving forward.

If you score similarly on both, take the one you prefer.

Understand Super Scoring

Most colleges “super score.”

That means they take your highest section scores across multiple test dates and combine them to create your best overall score.

For example, if you perform well in Math one time and better in English another time, they combine those highest subscores.

Because of this, I recommend taking tests “on purpose.”

Study and focus heavily on one section at a time. On test day, you will complete all sections, but you can mentally prioritize the one you prepared most for. Then next time, shift your focus.

Strategic testing is much more effective than random testing.

The #1 Way to Improve

The single most important factor in improving your score is repetition.

These tests are timed, fast-paced, stressful, and cover a wide range of material. Many students have not seen some of the math content in years.

The key is this cycle:

1. Take a full-length practice test

2. Grade it

3. Analyze what you missed

4. Learn what you didn’t know

5. Repeat

I recommend no fewer than six full-length practice tests after your baseline before taking the official test again.

And practice under real conditions:

• No phone

• No music

• Timed sections

• Scrap paper only

The more familiar the experience feels, the less stressful test day becomes.

Students who think they are “bad test takers” usually are not. They are simply underprepared for the format. If they can master a complex video game through repetition, they can master this.

Know What Skills to Brush Up On

Grammar

Grammar makes up a huge portion of both tests.

The ACT English section alone has 75 questions, and nearly half of the SAT Reading & Writing section focuses on grammar and sentence structure.

Many students were never taught how to properly diagram sentences, identify parts of speech, or confidently use punctuation like colons and semicolons. That gap often lowers scores significantly.

Reading

Students must read short passages quickly and comprehend them under time pressure.

The best preparation? Reading. A lot. Regular reading builds stamina and comprehension naturally.

Math

Most math content is Algebra through Algebra 2 and Geometry. For juniors, this may include content they haven’t seen since middle school.

Math improves fastest with repetition. Work lots of problems.

If possible, consider taking College Algebra (dual enrollment) the summer before junior year or alongside junior year math. This refreshes foundational skills and supports higher-level math classes.

Free Resources

Free SAT prep:

• Khan Academy

• Schoolhouse

• Collegeboard

Free ACT prep:

• Princeton Review

• ACT test prep

Paid Resources I Recommend

SAT Prep

• Erika Meltzer – The Ultimate Guide to SAT Grammar

• Erika Meltzer – The Ultimate Guide to SAT Reading

• SAT Prep Black Book

ACT Prep

• Erika Meltzer – The Ultimate Guide to ACT English

• Erika Meltzer – The Ultimate Guide to ACT Reading

• ACT Prep Black Book

These resources break down question types and teach you how to interpret what is being asked, which is critical.

Please note: As an Amazon Associate, I do earn commissions from purchases.

Paid tutor

If you choose to use a tutor, make sure they:

• Establish a baseline score

• Compare both tests

• Monitor full-length practice exams

• Provide structured practice

Just doing random practice problems is not enough.

Accommodations

If your child qualifies for accommodations, use them.

Both tests offer extended time and other supports. Make sure you understand the qualification process well before registering. It takes time and should not be left to the last minute.

Sending Scores

When registering (or within specific post-test windows), you can send scores to up to four colleges for free.

• SAT: free sends at registration or within nine days after the test

• ACT: free sends until the Thursday after the test

After that:

• SAT: approximately $15 per school

• ACT: approximately $20 per school

Many colleges now allow self-reporting during the application process and require official scores only after acceptance.

Shift the Mindset

If a student earns a $36,000 merit scholarship because of their score and invested 100 hours preparing, that’s $360 per hour of effort.

Very few high school jobs pay that.

Sometimes reframing the test changes motivation.

One Important Note

College testing policies change. A lot.

What was required last year may not be required this year. What counted for merit scholarships at one school may look different at another. Always double-check directly on the college’s admissions website for the most current information.

Consider this guidance your framework. The final details should always come from the source.

Action to take

Research the colleges your child is considering.

• Do they require the SAT or ACT?

• Are test scores required for merit scholarships?

• Are there state scholarships tied to specific score thresholds?

Before dismissing these tests or stressing about them unnecessarily, understand how they are actually used by the schools on your list.