ACT vs SAT Math
I. ACT and SAT both
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Both tests cover the math your student has already learned in school:
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Basic math foundations
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Algebra (linear equations, quadratics, polynomials)
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Geometry concepts
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Basic probability and statistics
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Introductory trigonometry
II. ACT and SAT differences
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A. Unique to the ACT
The ACT math section goes wider, testing a broad range of topics:
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Logarithms
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Matrices
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Advanced trigonometry (identities, graphs)
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Sequences and series
Pace: 60 questions in 60 minutes—speed matters.
B. Unique to the SAT
The SAT math section goes deeper, with more multi-step problem solving:
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Data analysis and problem solving
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Functions and graphs
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Trigonometry with radians and the unit circle
Focus: Reasoning and applying concepts to real-world scenarios.
C. How Much Does Math Count?
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On the SAT: Math is half of the total score (800 of 1600 points).
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On the ACT: Math is one-quarter of the composite score (1 of 4 sections). Note that since Science is optional now, this will change to one-third of the composite score (1 of 3 sections) if the student does not take the Science section.
D. Why this matters:
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A math-strong student may benefit more from the SAT, since math carries extra weight.
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A student who shines in reading, writing, or science reasoning may find the ACT a better fit, because math is a smaller slice of the score.
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