Points are added for the SAT and ACT exams based on correct answers. On the SAT, 1 point is awarded for each correct answer, while on the ACT, 1 point is also given for each correct answer. However, the ACT includes a section on writing, where students can earn up to 4 points for their essay. Additionally, the ACT has a science section where students can earn up to 2 points for each correct answer.

The SAT and ACT scoring systems are designed to reflect the knowledge and skills students have acquired in their academic careers. The SAT, which stands for Scholastic Assessment Test, is an achievement test that measures students' readiness for college. It consists of sections on reading, writing and language, and math. The ACT, on the other hand, is an achievement and aptitude test that also includes sections on English, mathematics, reading, science, and an optional writing test.

According to the College Board, the average score on the SAT is around 1050 out of 1600, with a standard deviation of about 200 points. The ACT, on the other hand, has an average score of around 21 out of 36, with a standard deviation of about 5 points. These scores are used by colleges and universities to assess the academic potential of applicants.

Data from the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) shows that the SAT and ACT are widely used by colleges and universities across the United States. In 2020, approximately 1.7 million students took the SAT, and about 1.9 million students took the ACT. The scores from these exams are used by colleges to make admissions decisions, as well as to inform placement and academic support services for incoming students.

The scoring systems for both the SAT and ACT are designed to be fair and accurate, with each correct answer contributing equally to the final score. This ensures that students are evaluated based on their knowledge and skills, rather than on how they perform on a particular test day. The inclusion of the writing and science sections on the ACT provides a more comprehensive assessment of students' abilities, while the optional writing test on the SAT allows students to showcase their writing skills.