Digital ACT® or Paper ACT®? How to Help Your Students Decide Which Format to Take

As standardized testing continues to evolve, both the College Board and ACT® have introduced updates to their exams, providing students with more flexible, test-taker-friendly options.

The ACT®'s latest changes have given students an important choice: take the fully digital version or the traditional paper-and-pencil format. By Spring 2024, the digital version of the ACT® became widely available, offering students greater flexibility and more control over their testing experience.

Although the two test formats are similar in most ways, it’s important for students to carefully consider the differences and which test format best suits their needs and preferences. 

We hope that this post will help you offer clear guidance in helping your students make the best choice so they can feel confident and comfortable on test day.

You can find more information on the differences and similarities between the digital and paper ACT® in our post: Digital ACT® vs. Paper ACT®: What You Need to Know Before Test Day.

How to Help Your Students Choose Between the Digital and Paper-and-Pencil Versions of the ACT®

Choosing between the digital and paper-and-pencil versions of the ACT® is a significant decision for test takers. With guidance, your clients can consider the differences between both test formats and make an informed decision based on their personal preferences and comfort levels. 

Here are the key factors to consider when advising your students:

1. Comfort Level with Technology

For students who are comfortable using computers and digital tools, the digital ACT® may be a natural fit. It offers helpful digital features like the built-in calculator, highlighter, text-to-speech, and zoom tools. 

However, if your student has limited experience with digital platforms or feels anxious about taking the test on a computer, the paper-and-pencil ACT® is clearly a better option. 

If your client is unsure which test format is the right for them, have them try a digital practice test to assess their comfort level with the format and technology before making a final decision.

At Clear Choice, we offer digital practice tests that mirror the real exam experience, so that you can give your students the chance to get comfortable with the digital interface and features they’ll experience taking the digital ACT® on test day. 

2. Test Familiarity and Preference

Some students may feel more comfortable with the paper format simply because it is the traditional method they’ve become used to during prep. The familiarity of using a pencil, marking answers directly on paper, and navigating the test in a straightforward manner might reduce anxiety for some students. 

In contrast, others may prefer the digital format, especially if they are accustomed to taking tests online or using digital devices for schoolwork. 

It’s important to assess your student’s preferences and help them choose the format that will make them feel most at ease so that they can feel confident on test day.

3. Focus and Test Fatigue

The digital format allows test takers to use tools like the line reader to help maintain focus and stay on track. 

For students who tend to experience test fatigue, the digital format might offer a slightly more comfortable testing experience. 

If your student prefers the tactile experience of paper or is concerned about staring at a computer screen for an extended period, the paper-and-pencil ACT® may feel more manageable.

4. Speed and Scoring

One of the advantages of the digital ACT® is automatic scoring, which provides faster results. The digital version might be more appealing if your student is looking for quicker feedback. 

On the other hand, the paper-and-pencil version relies on manual scoring, so results may take longer to arrive. If your student is not in a rush to get their scores, the paper version could be the right choice.

5. Practice Opportunities

Encourage your students to take practice tests in both formats. This will allow them to experience each format firsthand and identify which version suits them best. 

Additionally, your students should be given the same choice when practicing for the ACT®. They should be prepping and practicing using the same format as the version they plan to take on test day. 

Students who practice with the same format as the real exam will gain confidence and become more familiar with the tools and layout they’ll use on test day.

By considering the differences between the test formats and providing your clients with the choice to practice using either version, you can help your students make an informed decision about whether to take the digital or paper-and-pencil version of the ACT®. The goal is to ensure that your students feel confident and comfortable on test day, so they can perform at their best.

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Related Posts:

• Digital ACT® vs. Paper ACT®: What You Need to Know Before Test Day

• Big Changes to the ACT®: What We Know So Far

• Are Your Students Looking to Take the Online ACT®? Know the Facts First

• Deciphering Clients' ACT® Score Reports: What the Numbers Really Say

• Take Official ACT® Practice Tests to the Next Level with Score Analysis

• Students Need Experience with Computerized ACT® and SAT® Test Tools

Has Your Test Prep Adapted to the Digital Age?

At Clear Choice Prep, we are ready to help your students excel in the digital testing world. Our full-length computer-based ACT® practice tests come with comprehensive score reports and tailored guidance to support personalized and optimized test prep experiences for your clients. Ready to get started? Request a free demo today!