Should I take the ACT or the SAT?

Test Preparation
1

Hello everyone,
This past October, my school allowed me to take the PSAT and Pre-ACT as a sophomore. Prior to these tests, my counselor had suggested I start preparing for the SAT, which caused me to ignore the ACT mostly because of the science section. However, when I received my scores last week, I was pretty flabbergasted as my SAT was dramatically lower than my expectations and the ACT was dramatically higher. Here’s the breakdown.

PSAT:
Total: 1270
Evidence-Based Reading/Writing: 660
Math: 610 (Yikes…I’m in AP Calc)
Predicted SAT Score: 1300-1350

Pre-ACT:
Composite: 32/35
Math: 32
English: 27
Reading: 34
Science: 35
Predicted ACT Score: 32-34

My counselor is now pressuring me to choose a test to prep for because I am a Brown 2023 hopeful. Should I choose the ACT because of the score and the comfort level I experienced with the math section or should I be deterred by the science section and the time constraints? I would really appreciate any help.

2

Impressive that you’re in AP Calc as a sophomore! One thing to note, is that these tests aren’t exactly high level math, because many people don’t get to take AP level coursework. Getting a high score requires really good grasp of problem-solving (and quick problem-solving) and applying the important formulas and concepts.

Anyway, it seems you’re naturally more fit for ACT. Focus your prep on the English section :slight_smile:

3

ACT score predictions seem higher compared to your PSAT predictions. Yes-work on your English. Pretty amazed your science section for the ACT is high!