SAT and ACT: What They Are, What They Aren't, and How to Get a High Score
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.
While the overall timing is about the same as the SAT, it's structured a bit differently. Sections range from 35 minutes for the English section to 50 minutes for the Math and 40 minutes for the Reading.
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 64 minutes for Reading and Writing (divided into 2 modules) and 70 minutes for the Math (divided into 2 modules), which can be helpful for those who prefer a bit more time to process and think deeply.
The SAT is now the digital SAT and can only be taken on a computer or tablet.
How they score
The max ACT score for each section is a 36, while the max SAT score for each section is an 800.
The key difference is how they do the scoring. For both tests, you do not get any points off for incorrect or skipped answers. Since it's not a penalty to guess, I always encourage every student to fill in every answer. Go in with a "letter of the day" to use to fill in for every guess.
However, the SAT is now a multi-stage adaptive test. Every student gets the same Module 1 in each section, but which Module 2 they move into is based on how they did on Module 1.
That means the Module 2 level they test into sets their max score ceiling. If after Module 1 they get into the higher-difficulty module, they can score up to an 800. But if they test into the lower-difficulty module, their max score for Reading is a little over 600, and for Math it's a little under 600.
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 do 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 Increase your Score
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:
Take a full-length practice test
Grade it
Analyze what you missed
Learn what you didn't know
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 50 questions, and a large portion of the SAT Reading and 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:
Free ACT prep:
Paid Resources I Recommend
Online test prep
Acely. Acely is a test prep platform for the SAT and ACT that builds you a personalized study plan and adapts as you improve. Here's what you get:
14,000+ expert-made questions across the SAT and ACT, filterable by difficulty and topic
50 full-length practice tests so you can practice under real test conditions
A built-in tutor that gives hints, explains mistakes, and reinforces concepts as you go
Performance insights to track your progress and see exactly where to focus
Use my link to get $10 off, or use code TIFFANY for $10 off your first payment.
This covers everything I think you need to do to get better: take the test over and over, find out what you got wrong, and practice more of exactly that. I always think the cycle should be Practice Test -> Find out what you did wrong -> Get help and practice problems like those you got wrong, over and over -> New Practice Test -> Repeat.
Please note: As an Acely partner, I do earn commissions from purchases.
Books I recommend
SAT Prep
Erica Meltzer – The Ultimate Guide to SAT Grammar
Erica Meltzer – The Ultimate Guide to SAT Reading
ACT Prep
Erica Meltzer – The Complete Guide to ACT English
Erica Meltzer – The Complete Guide to ACT Reading
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.
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