PSAT scores will be given to students on Monday, Jan. 10. Understanding the test, scores and what to do with them are the first steps in preparing for the SAT. The PSAT scores should not be looked at then discarded. The information in the score report will be helpful in developing a long-term plan of action for taking the SAT.
What is the PSAT?
The PSAT or Preliminary Scholastic Aptitude Test is widely regarded as a practice test for the SAT. However, merely taking the test as practice will not prepare you for the SAT. Regardless of your position on standardized tests, they do provide specific information that can be used to focus on areas of study or improvement. As a preliminary test (not practice), the PSAT is quite reliable in predicting scores on the SAT. Unless you are completely satisfied with the scores, which is highly unlikely, preparing for the next PSAT or SAT is extremely important.
How do I use the PSAT to improve my SAT scores?
Understanding the results, how the questions are worded, and figuring out why a question was missed are all helpful for developing a plan to prepare for the SAT. The worst plan is to think that a crash course in SAT preparation is all that is needed. While SAT prep courses can be helpful, they should not be the primary method of improving scores. Preparing for the SAT should begin as soon as possible and be ongoing through the last administration in the senior year.
What are the best ways to increase SAT scores?
The College Board lists five ways to receive higher than estimated scores on the SAT based on the PSAT score.
1. Developing skills through rigorous academic courses
2. Participating in problem-solving activities
3. Extensive, quality outside reading and/or writing
4. Using the resources on their website, such as My SAT Study Plan and My College QuickStart
5. Becoming familiar with test directions, types of questions and pacing
Obviously, the first three cannot be done overnight. Overall preparation should be done through course selection, reading challenging literature, and working through difficult problems. Specific preparation should include the individual score report and target weak areas.
More Information
You can find more information on interpreting the scores by clicking here: https://www.collegeboard.com/student/testing/psat/scores/report.html.
Another useful tool provided by The College Board is the My College QuickStart, which includes the My SAT Study Plan. You will need to set up an account with The College Board, if you don’t already have one. You can access them here: https://quickstart.collegeboard.com/posweb/login.jsp.
Access practice tests, lessons, and study tips using your Naviance Family Connection login here: https://connection.naviance.com/darlington.
