Taking the PSAT
Why take the PSAT?
1. Similar to the SAT: The SAT is one of two standardized testing that applicants can take for their standardized testing requirement. While the PSAT is not the same test, it is structured very similarly to the SAT and features much of the same content. Thus, the PSAT can be used to gauge on what you need to improve. This will be crucial when studying for the SAT.
2. Practice for a Timed Test: The PSAT is not only similar to the SAT, but it is also a timed test. Exams are hard enough on their own but when a maximum time is introduced, it can often make the content harder to get through. Thus, practicing how to pace yourself through a timed exam can be helpful for not only the SAT, but also any other academic exam in your future.
3. National Merit Scholar Program: Many colleges participate in the National Merit Scholar Program where students who perform exceptionally well on the PSAT their junior year are eligible for special merit-based scholarships. Thus, there is a potential monetary incentive to perform well on the PSAT, but you can only get this award your junior year.
2. Practice for a Timed Test: The PSAT is not only similar to the SAT, but it is also a timed test. Exams are hard enough on their own but when a maximum time is introduced, it can often make the content harder to get through. Thus, practicing how to pace yourself through a timed exam can be helpful for not only the SAT, but also any other academic exam in your future.
3. National Merit Scholar Program: Many colleges participate in the National Merit Scholar Program where students who perform exceptionally well on the PSAT their junior year are eligible for special merit-based scholarships. Thus, there is a potential monetary incentive to perform well on the PSAT, but you can only get this award your junior year.
What is on the PSAT and How to Prepare?
There are three main sections of the PSAT:
Links for Studying and Practice Tests:
- Reading: 47 multiple choice questions to be answered in 60 minutes, featuring: reading comprehension, context analyzation, and vocabulary identification.
- Writing and Language: 44 multiple choice questions to be answered in 35 minutes, featuring: grammar, vocabulary identification, and finding the right phrase.
- Math: 48 multiple choice questions to be answered in 70 minutes, featuring: algebra I and II, geometry, and a small amount of trigonometry.
Links for Studying and Practice Tests: