How to Settle the SAT vs. ACT Problem

Time and time again, we are told throughout high school the importance of standardized testing, culminating in the dreaded college entrance exams of the SAT and ACT.  They have now started us off preparing in junior high for the SAT, so obviously this ends the battle between the two tests since if we are preparing so early for one, shouldn’t that trump the other?
   
In the battle commonly known as “SAT vs. ACT”, there are few definite answers.  Sure, we all prepare for the SAT, and the SAT is what is commonly referred to within a variety of college sources, but the ACT has become just as important.  Many state schools now only require the ACT, whereas other schools require multiple varieties of the SAT.  Therefore, it has become increasingly important that students drop the “SAT vs. ACT” mindset, and simply accept the fact that both tests are important upon applying to any college or university.  Both tests help heighten your study habits and can additionally prepare you for the increased workload you will encounter in a college setting.  Furthermore, these two tests are excellent preparation for any future tests you may be taking in the latter part of your college education: the LSAT, GRE, GMAT, or MCAT.  While these early high school tests are only a stepping stone within the great scheme of things, it should become common knowledge that the “SAT vs. ACT” conflict is not really a conflict at all, but an opportunity to allow you to further prepare yourself for life after high school, and even life after college. 
   
Breaking down the acronyms of the two tests even reveals that there is little to differentiate in SAT vs. ACT: Standardized Aptitude Test and American College Testing.  Both tests are necessary for acceptance into college, and while some schools prefer one test to the other, neither are complete “deal breakers” for acceptance into school.  There is a great emphasis placed on the SAT and less placed on the ACT for a myriad of reasons, but the bottom line is that while some schools seemingly place a strong weight on these test scores, your entire school career up to that point is what they are really concerned about.  Of course, a 2400 on the SAT would not hurt matters in applying to a prestigious school, but if you did superbly on the SAT and lousy on the ACT, schools will take note of this and question why you did not adequately prepare for both.  Throughout college, you will be forced (from time to time) to prepare for class according to which class needs more attention; this also tends to happen in the SAT vs. ACT dilemma.  While this seems to be a necessary way to break up your work, one subject will get neglected in the long run which can only affect your future.  By partitioning your study time for standardized tests, you should keep in mind that both tests are equally relevant for your college acceptance and both should have equal weight in your mind.  This will in turn transcend to your study habits in college, forcing you to give every subject equal time and thereby increase your GPA!