How to Prep and Study for the PSAT

Short answer: To prep for the PSAT, learn the test’s structure, take official practice tests in College Board’s Bluebook app, and review every missed question to find your weak areas. Use free official resources, pick a study guide or course that fits your learning style, follow a study plan, and practice pacing so you don’t get stuck on hard questions.

The PSAT/NMSQT gives you practice for the SAT and is the qualifying test for the National Merit Scholarship Program. A little structured preparation goes a long way.

Key points

• Know the structure: Two sections, Reading and Writing and Math, in 2 hours and 14 minutes.
• Official practice tests: College Board’s Bluebook tests most accurately match the real PSAT.
• Learn from mistakes: The goal is not just to take practice tests but to review every answer.
• Pick your resources: Combine free official practice with a study guide, course or tutor.
• Prioritize your time: Answer the questions you’re confident about first and don’t get stuck.
• Stay healthy: Rest, a balanced diet and exercise support your performance on test day.

How is the PSAT/NMSQT structured?

The PSAT/NMSQT (Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test) is a standardized test that provides practice for the SAT and serves as a qualifier for the National Merit Scholarship Program. It has two main sections:

1. Reading and Writing Section. This section tests your literacy skills by asking multiple-choice questions that require you to read, comprehend, analyze, and revise texts.
2. Math Section. This section assesses your mathematical proficiency. It’s split into two modules, and a calculator is allowed throughout.

Question counts and times are from College Board. Most questions are multiple choice, but some math questions ask you to write in the answer.

Why are practice tests so important for PSAT prep?

Integrating practice tests into your PSAT preparation is key for several reasons:

• Familiarity: They let you get used to the PSAT/NMSQT’s structure and question formats, which can significantly reduce test anxiety on exam day.
• Diagnosis: They help you identify your strengths and weaknesses in each section, so you can focus your study efforts more effectively.
• Endurance: Consistent practice builds stamina, which matters because the PSAT is a lengthy exam.
• Speed and accuracy: Timed practice helps you improve both, which is important on a timed test.

For the most benefit, use up-to-date, official practice tests like those provided by the College Board. These tests most accurately reflect the actual PSAT in difficulty level and content.

Remember, the goal is not just to take practice tests but to learn from them by thoroughly reviewing your answers.

Tutor tip: Keep a notebook of every question you miss on a practice test, with the correct solution worked out step by step. Before the next test, redo those questions without looking.

How do you use Khan Academy and College Board resources?

To get the most out of your preparation, take advantage of resources offered by Khan Academy and College Board. By linking your Khan Academy account to your College Board account, you can use your PSAT, SAT, or other test results to receive personalized practice recommendations. This can help tailor your study plan to areas where you need improvement.

Resources include:

• Bluebook™: A free, full-length practice test platform. You can download practice tests for additional preparation.
• Official SAT Practice on Khan Academy: This provides personalized practice resources based on your PSAT performance. You can also practice other skills beyond those recommended.
• Digital PSAT/NMSQT on Khan Academy: This mimics the digital SAT; use it alongside Khan Academy’s free official digital SAT test prep materials.

Remember, consistent practice and review are the keys to understanding and mastering the test format and content.

“College Board has an official SAT question bank with a really nice interface. You check the boxes for the questions you want, and it generates a PDF for you.”

Caleb Nastasi, Alexander Tutoring SAT tutor

Which PSAT study guides and prep books work best?

When it comes to study guides and prep books, there’s a wide range of options available. Some popular choices include:

• Barron’s PSAT Study Guide Premium: Offers in-depth content review, test-taking strategies, and practice exercises for each subject tested on the PSAT: Reading and Writing, and Math.
• Princeton Review PSAT/NMSQT Prep: Provides two practice tests, review material, and online tools.
• Kaplan’s PSAT/NMSQT Prep: Includes two full-length practice tests and over 1,000 practice exercises.
• Mometrix PSAT study guide: Known for its concise and user-friendly layout.

Choosing a guide or prep book largely depends on your individual study needs and learning style. Consider the depth of content review, the number of practice tests, and additional resources like online tools or video tutorials.

A combination of resources can often provide a more complete study experience.

Should you choose online classes or traditional courses for PSAT prep?

When deciding between online classes and traditional courses for PSAT prep, it’s essential to understand their respective advantages and the specific needs of the student.

Online classes, such as those offered by Alexander Tutoring, PrepScholar, Princeton Review, or Kaplan, are increasingly popular due to their flexibility and accessibility. Most provide study materials, practice tests, and personalized study plans.

On the other hand, traditional courses often provide structured learning environments and direct interaction with instructors. They may be a better fit for students who prefer face-to-face instruction and benefit from a more structured study schedule.

Remember, the best course is the one that aligns with the student’s learning style, schedule, and budget.

What are the best tips and strategies for the PSAT?

To do your best on the PSAT, you need a well-rounded strategy. Here are some tips to guide you:

1. Understand the test’s structure. Knowing the format of each section, the types of questions you’ll encounter, and the timing helps you navigate the test more efficiently.
2. Use a study plan. A structured approach to studying helps you cover all the necessary content systematically. This includes regular practice tests, review of concepts, and identifying areas of improvement.
3. Prioritize your time. Not all questions are created equal. Prioritize the ones you’re confident about, and don’t spend too much time on the ones you find challenging.
4. Stay healthy. Get plenty of rest, eat a balanced diet, and exercise regularly. Good physical health contributes significantly to your mental performance.
5. Keep a positive mindset. Stay optimistic and confident about your abilities. It’s not just about how much you know, but also how well you can apply what you’ve learned under exam conditions.

Tutor tip: Each Math module is 22 questions in 35 minutes, or about 95 seconds per question. Move quickly through the easier questions to bank time for the harder ones at the end.

Remember to use all available resources, including online study materials, books, and tutors. It’s also helpful to get familiar with the test-taking environment to minimize stress on exam day. Once you have your score, see what counts as a good PSAT score, how the PSAT compares to the SAT, and whether you can retake the PSAT.

Frequently asked questions