In the world of college admissions testing, the SAT's transition to a digital format introduces new dynamics into the decision-making process for students weighing their options between the ACT and the SAT.
Let's delve into the specifics of the digital SAT and how it stacks up against the ACT.
The Digital SAT Unveiled
The College Board's move to digitize the SAT represents a leap into modern testing, with changes that aim to enhance the test-taking experience.
The Digital SAT will adapt to the test taker's performance, supposedly providing a tailored experience that could benefit the student's scoring potential, but the truth is it doesn’t affect much in terms of strategy. You’re still going to just try to get as many questions right as possible.
Let’s break down how the Digital SAT compares to the ACT:
Time Pressure
The new SAT format offers more time per question, alleviating the rush and allowing for deeper thought. Not to mention, the Digital SAT is more concise than the ACT, reducing test fatigue with its shorter test time.
Time has always been a challenge with the ACT. Typically, however, the ACT is a bit more generous with accommodations. Be sure to look into it if you think you might qualify.
Reading Passages
The Digital SAT now feature much more manageable reading passages. There are no long passages, but the content and questions on SAT Verbal are a bit more challenging. The passages are more nuances and the questions more particular.
ACT Reading must be done quickly, but it remains superficial, primarily requiring students to go find material in the passage, whereas the SAT mostly tells you where to look, but you have to decipher more complex writing.
The same strategies apply regardless.
Math Content
The Digital SAT has a much narrower scope of study required than the ACT, focusing on core ideas from Pre-Algebra, Algebra, and Geometry. Its questions work a bit more like puzzles than a math test.
The ACT tests the material much more in-depth, requiring knowledge of many specific domains.
Available Prep Materials
The digital SAT's fresh terrain means fewer established prep materials, though this is rapidly changing as test prep providers like The College Lad adapt.
The ACT's unchanged structure means students and educators know exactly what to expect. An abundance of ACT prep materials and practice tests are available, providing a good foundation for preparation.
Choosing Your Test in the Digital Age
When it comes to selecting between the digital SAT and the ACT, it's essential to consider your individual strengths and how they align with each test's characteristics.
If you thrive under time constraints and have a strong grasp of a broad math curriculum, the ACT might be your arena. Conversely, if you prefer a test that allows for more thinking time and a narrower focus on math skills, the new digital SAT could play to your strengths.
We’re always happy to talk through your specific case!