ACT Reading vs. SAT Reading & Writing: Which Test Is Easier?
One of the most notable differences between the SAT and ACT is the length of the reading passages. On the SAT Reading and Writing section, each question has its own short passage, typically between 25 and 150 words. On the ACT Reading Test, students read longer passages, generally up to about 650 to 750 words, and answer multiple questions about each one.
Many students gravitate toward the SAT because reading shorter passages seems like an easier task. However, shorter doesn’t necessarily mean easier. Each format has its own challenges and its own advantages.
What Are the Advantages of the SAT's Short Passage Format?
You can move on quickly
If you encounter a passage that you don’t understand on the SAT, you only have to deal with it for one question. Once you answer the question, you get to move on. You don’t have to keep trying to parse the same text in order to answer several more questions.
For some students, simply knowing they can move on from a tricky passage after one question can be a major stress relief. A difficult passage doesn’t have to derail the rest of the section. If you get stuck, you can guess and move on, knowing that you’re only sacrificing one question instead of one quarter of the section.
You know what to expect
The SAT Reading and Writing section uses a consistent set of question types. These question types appear in a predictable order within each module. Once you’re familiar with these question types, you’ll know what the test is asking you to do before you even start reading each passage.
The consistent format can make the section feel more manageable. Instead of reading a passage and then figuring out what to look for, you already know what your task will be.
That predictability also makes it easier to prepare. You can isolate individual question types, develop a strategy for each one, and then apply those strategies on test day. Test Innovators has 1,700+ SAT targeted practice questions organized by question type, making it easy to focus on a specific skill.
The Advantages of Longer ACT Passages
For many students, the ACT’s longer passages seem like a disadvantage at first glance. But longer passages can often be easier.
You don't have to switch contexts as often
On the SAT, each question is a fresh start with a new passage. That means you’re constantly switching between topics, authors, and ideas.
Having to jump between different topics, authors, and writing styles 54 times in 64 minutes can be mentally draining!
On the ACT, you can settle into a passage and stay there for several questions rather than starting over with every new question.
You can build on your understanding as you work through the questions
Each ACT Reading passage has 9 questions. As you work through these questions, you may develop a better understanding of the passage as a whole. Answering one question can sometimes make the next question easier to answer. And if you get stuck, working through the other questions about the passage might help you make a connection you didn’t see before.
Which Test Is Better for You?
There isn’t one right answer; it depends on your personal preferences and testing strengths.
If you like short, focused tasks and don’t mind moving quickly from one topic to another, you may prefer the SAT’s format. If you prefer to spend more time with a passage and use the same context to answer several questions, you may find the ACT more comfortable.
The best way to find out is to try both. Try a practice test for the SAT and a practice test for the ACT. Pay attention not only to your scores, but also to how you feel while you’re taking each test. Which format feels more comfortable? Which one makes it easier for you to stay focused? Which type of passage do you prefer?
Once you’ve tried both, use our SAT vs. ACT score comparison tool to compare your scores.
Ready to Prepare for the ACT and SAT?
Test Innovators has full-length practice tests and targeted practice questions for both the ACT and SAT. Try both and see which format works better for you.
Sara Laszlo
Sara Laszlo has nearly ten years of experience in private tutoring. An opera singer by training, Sara is especially interested in exploring better ways to practice and improve skills, whether musical or test-related. She holds a B.A. in Classical Civilization from Duke University and a Certificate of Merit in Voice from the New England Conservatory of Music.
