PSAT Prep: Top Tips

In our recent blog post, “What is a Good PSAT Score?” our experts answered your PSAT FAQs. Now, we’re sharing our top tips as you prepare for the October PSAT.

Let’s GO…

How do I prepare for the PSAT?

The PSAT may be “just a warm-up,” but that doesn’t mean you should go in blind. Luckily, you already have a leg up since you’re reading this blog post! So, what else can you do?

• Take a practice test. The College Board offers two free PSAT practice tests. Download at least one of them and take it at least a couple of weeks before the actual PSAT. It’ll help relieve some of those nervous “day-of” jitters and also help you gain familiarity with the instructions and format of the exam so you can devote your time to doing your best work.
• Focus on the tricky parts. One of the benefits of taking a practice PSAT before the actual PSAT is being able to identify what you’re doing really well already and what concepts are proving challenging. Spend some time before PSAT test day digging into challenging question types and concepts using the range of SAT prep materials available online and in print publication. Remember, when you’re studying for the SAT, you’re also studying for the PSAT. You can use materials specific to the PSAT or the SAT, target challenging concepts, and drill them prior to test day. It’ll ease your anxiety, and you’ll be giving your future SAT-taking self a leg up.
• Consider one-on-one tutoring. Even though the PSAT is just a diagnostic, you can still use the opportunity to kick your SAT prep into gear, even if only at a slow pace to start. Slow and steady wins the race: start off nice and easygoing with a tutor and then increase the intensity as you get closer to the actual test day.

What should I bring on test day?

Make sure your bag is packed the night before the exam with everything you’ll need on test day: bring your scientific calculator (fully charged), ID, admission ticket, #2 pencils, light snacks, and any other items you and your PSAT/SAT tutor have identified. Remember to eat a good breakfast on the day of the exam and aim to arrive at the testing center at least 30 minutes early.

I got my official PSAT score. Now what?

First, give yourself a pat on the back for completing the PSAT – it’s a big test, and you should be proud of yourself! Here’s what you can do now that you’ve got your score report to ensure you’re studying in the most efficient way for the actual SAT:

• Analyze the subscores in the “Cross-Test Scores” of your score report. This will tell you whether you need to focus on Standard English Conventions vs. Heart of Algebra vs. Passport to Advanced Math or all of the above. Consider where you did well and reinforce those skills through practice, but also devote extra resources and time to the areas where you struggled.
• Review the “Skills Insight” section of your score report online. Skills Insight, available on the College Board website, offers score-based recommendations for improvement.

Don’t skimp out on prep time.

With the shift to test optional admissions, students who do elect to take the SAT (and ACT) are now competing with a self-selecting group of higher scorers. As such, the percentile breakdowns that existed when the tests were largely required by colleges and universities have shifted and become more competitive. So, what does this mean for you? Do your homework! You may want to devote extra time and effort to your prep work to ensure that you maintain your percentile ranking from the PSAT to the actual SAT. If you put in the work, you’ll see the reward!