Why the ACT Feels Easier than the SAT

Before starting an SAT or ACT program with Hammer, we meet with each student and his or her family. While the main purpose of the meeting is to set goals, we find that discussing what students and parents are hearing as arguably the biggest benefit. When we ask students what they've heard from their friends about the SAT vs ACT, we typically get the following response,

"I've heard the ACT is easier."

Every tutor at Hammer Prep has taken dozens of SATs and ACTs, and we all agree that ACT questions are typically more straightforward. However, every tutor at Hammer Prep also knows that ACT test writers offset the more direct language with less time. For example, the ACT gives you 60 minutes for 60 math questions; SAT provides approximately 75 minutes for 60 math questions (please note: there are only 54 math questions on the SAT).

Our advice: be careful with how you use other students' feedback. Easy is relative--and is largely based on skill level. So, while the ACT may feel easier, don't assume you will score higher. Find out by taking a practice test.