Taking the ACT?

Test Preparation ACT Preparation
1

Hello College Confidential!

I just took the SAT in January and got a 2370, and from that, I have a superscore of a 2380. Now I’m pondering whether or not I should take the ACT. I am completely new to this test and have no idea how to study for it. Should I completely eliminate everything I learned from studying the SAT and relearn? I was planning to take the ACT this April, and now I’m also confused as to whether or not I should take the optional essay, even though the SAT already had an essay portion. Don’t colleges just need one writing section? Also, does this writing score affect your overall composite? Let’s say your composite is a 36, but your essay is a 9. Would that affect your composite score? Finally, if you send that score to colleges, does that essay get sent as well, or can you opt out of sending that essay?

Thanks guys! I have no clue about the ACT and its contents. Better get studying!

2

Personally, I don’t see why you would take the ACT because your SAT score is already high enough. At this point, 20 or 30 points will not be the deciding factor for your admission to college. However, if you are up for the challenge …, I guess you could take it, but honestly, I don’t think you should worry much.

For the ACT, I would suggest using “The Real ACT Prep Guide…” “Barron’s ACT,” and “Barron’s ACT 36” are also good prep materials. “Ultimate Guide to the Math ACT” is perfect for math. The writing score at the end of the ACT does not affect your composite. When sending ACT scores to colleges, you have to send the FULL score report.

3

Many competitive (for entry) schools try to weed out test obsessed students. You have a good score on the SAT so why would you take the ACTs?