How do the SAT and ACT Math Sections Compare?

As a team of tutors, we have helped many students prepare for both the SAT and ACT math sections. While both tests assess students’ math skills and knowledge, there are notable differences between the two.

One of the primary differences is the weight of the math section on the overall test score. The SAT math section accounts for 50% of the total test score, while the ACT math section accounts for 25% of the total test score. This means that the SAT math section has a greater impact on a student’s overall score and should be given more attention during preparation.

Another difference is the breakdown of concepts tested. The SAT math section primarily assesses algebra, problem-solving, and data analysis skills. It also covers some geometry and trigonometry topics.

On the other hand, the ACT math section covers a wider range of topics, including algebra, geometry, trigonometry, and pre-calculus. The ACT math section also includes some basic statistics and probability questions.

The SAT math section has two subsections: a calculator and a non-calculator section. The non-calculator section tests a student’s ability to perform math calculations without the use of a calculator. The calculator section, on the other hand, assesses a student’s ability to use a calculator to solve more complex math problems.

The ACT math section, on the other hand, allows the use of a calculator throughout the entire section. However, the calculator is not permitted for some questions that assess a student’s ability to perform mental math calculations.

In terms of difficulty, the SAT math section is generally considered to be more challenging than the ACT math section. This is because the SAT math section includes more complex problem-solving questions that require critical thinking and analytical skills. The ACT math section, on the other hand, includes more straightforward questions that test a student’s ability to recall math concepts and perform basic calculations.

When preparing for either the SAT or ACT math sections, it is important for students to practice regularly and focus on areas where they may be weaker. Students should also become familiar with the format and types of questions on each test to maximize their scores.

The SAT math section also provides a formula sheet, which includes commonly used formulas and equations in algebra, geometry, and trigonometry. This formula sheet is also provided at the beginning of the test and can be used throughout the math section. The ACT does not provide a formula sheet during the test (But If you need one, we made one and put it here).

While both the SAT and ACT math sections assess students’ math skills and knowledge, there are notable differences between the two. The SAT math section is worth 50% of the total test score and primarily assesses algebra, problem-solving, and data analysis skills. The ACT math section is worth 25% of the total test score and covers a wider range of topics, including algebra, geometry, trigonometry, and pre-calculus. The SAT math section is generally considered to be more challenging than the ACT math section, and students should focus on practicing regularly and becoming familiar with the format and types of questions on each test.

References:

• American Psychological Association. (2021). Publication manual of the American Psychological Association (7th ed.). Washington, DC: Author. College Board. (2022). SAT math test. https://collegereadiness.collegeboard.org/sat/inside-the-test/math
• ACT, Inc. (2022). ACT math test.  
  • https://www.act.org/content/act/en/products-and-services/the-act/test-preparation/math-practice-test-questions.html
  • https://www.act.org/content/act/en/products-and-services/the-act/test-preparation/description-of-math-test.html
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