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PSAT (Preliminary SAT) Overview

The PSAT (Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test) is a standardized test. It serves as practice for the SAT. It is also a qualifier for the National Merit Scholarship Program. It is primarily taken by high school sophomores and juniors in the United States.

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Key Details

• Administered By: College Board
• Duration: 2 hours and 55 minutes (plus a 5-minute break).
• Scoring:
  • Total Score: 320–1520 (combining Evidence-Based Reading & Writing and Math).
  • Section Scores:
    • Evidence-Based Reading & Writing: 160–760.
    • Math: 160–760.
  • Subscores and cross-test scores are also provided.

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PSAT Syllabus

The PSAT assesses skills in two main areas:

1. Evidence-Based Reading and Writing (EBRW)

• Sections: Reading and Writing & Language
• Focus Areas:
  • Reading:
    • Analyze and interpret passages from various disciplines like literature, history, and science.
    • Identify main ideas, themes, and details.
    • Work with infographics and charts.
  • Writing & Language:
    • Identify and correct grammar, punctuation, and sentence structure errors.
    • Improve clarity and style in written passages.

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2. Math

• Focus Areas:
  • Heart of Algebra: Linear equations and inequalities.
  • Problem-Solving and Data Analysis: Ratios, percentages, and interpreting data.
  • Passport to Advanced Math: Quadratic equations, functions, and higher-level math.
  • Geometry and Trigonometry: Limited but included.
• Question Types:
  • Multiple-choice and grid-in questions (where students calculate and fill in their answers).
  • Calculator and no-calculator portions.

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PSAT Exam Pattern

Section	Number of Questions	Time Allocated
Reading	47 Questions	60 minutes
Writing & Language	44 Questions	35 minutes
Math (No Calculator)	17 Questions	25 minutes
Math (With Calculator)	31 Questions	45 minutes
Total	139 Questions	2 hours 55 minutes

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PSAT Scoring

• Total Score: 320–1520
• Section Scores: 160–760 each for EBRW and Math.
• Subscores: Detailed scores for specific skills like Command of Evidence, Words in Context, and Expression of Ideas.
• National Merit Qualification: Juniors taking the PSAT may qualify for the National Merit Scholarship Program based on their Selection Index score, calculated as: Selection Index=(EBRW Score+Math Score)×2\text{Selection Index} = (\text{EBRW Score} + \text{Math Score}) \times 2

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How the PSAT Differs from the SAT

Aspect	PSAT	SAT
Purpose	Practice and scholarship entry	College admissions
Duration	2 hours 55 minutes	3 hours (plus optional Essay)
Total Score	320–1520	400–1600
Difficulty	Slightly easier than the SAT	More advanced questions

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Benefits of Taking the PSAT

1. Preparation for the SAT: Familiarizes students with the SAT format, question types, and timing.
2. Scholarship Opportunities: Juniors can qualify for National Merit Scholarships.
3. Personalized SAT Prep: Use PSAT results to identify strengths and weaknesses through College Board’s partnership with Khan Academy.
4. College Planning: Provides insight into readiness for college-level work.

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Preparation Tips for the PSAT

1. Understand the Format: Familiarize yourself with the structure and timing of the test.
2. Practice Regularly: Use official PSAT practice tests from the College Board.
3. Focus on Vocabulary: Strengthen your understanding of commonly tested words in context.
4. Brush Up on Math Skills: Review algebra, geometry, and basic trigonometry concepts.
5. Analyze Your Mistakes: Identify patterns in errors to improve accuracy.
6. Manage Time Effectively: Practice pacing to ensure you finish each section.