What to Expect on the PSAT and How to Make It Count

In this PSAT Prep guide, we’ll dive deep into the PSAT and what to expect from it. But before we begin, what is the PSAT? Well, it’s basically just a practice SAT that doesn’t count. You will never send this score to colleges. It’s just a way to get a sense of what the SAT will be like. The level of difficulty is pretty much the same, and the types of questions are very similar to what you’d see on the SAT.

The biggest difference is the scoring, and even that isn’t a big deal; it’s mostly just an illusion. The SAT is scored out of 1600, with 800 points per subject. The PSAT, on the other hand, is scored out of 1520, with 760 points per subject.

But what is the point if you’re never going to send it to a college anyway? Well, think of it like athletes going to the gym; they don’t need to bench 160 kg in the field, yet they do it to get stronger, as stronger equals a better game. Similarly, the PSAT prepares you for the actual SAT. In this PSAT prep guide, we’re going to become a biology lab and dissect the PSAT into chunks and understand how you can get a perfect score, so your SAT isn’t as scary as it sounds.

Changes on the Digital PSAT

In the fall of 2023, the use of pencil and paper for administering the PSAT will be discontinued. With the exception of specific student accommodations, the Digital PSAT will be administered on a computer to all students. The PSAT has been compressed by approximately 45 minutes by the test developers; however, you will still receive a score of 1520. This score can be employed to evaluate your suitability for the SAT and to apply for scholarships. Furthermore, the total exam time will be diminished, resulting in increased time allocated to each question and a reduced number of questions to answer.

A built-in graphing calculator, text annotation tools, a timer, a magnification tool, and the ability to “cross out” answer choices that you wish to eliminate are among the additional beneficial features of the Digital PSAT format. These features will facilitate the management of queries and navigation of the test.

Additionally, modifications have been implemented to the Digital PSAT’s questions as well. The Reading and Writing passages and the Math’s questions are generally shorter in length, which will improve your capacity to focus on the questions.

What to Expect on the PSAT: A Quick Guide

In this PSAT prep guide, we’ll dive deep into the Syllabus, so you have clarity on what to focus on.

PSAT Math Overview

The math section consists of 44 questions, divided into two modules, each with a 35-minute time limit. You’ll be tested on four key areas, and yes, you can use a calculator on all questions (either the built-in one or an approved external one).

Math Topic	What’s Tested
Algebra (13–15 Qs)	Linear equations, functions, inequalities, systems, and interpreting relationships
Advanced Math (12–14 Qs)	Nonlinear equations: quadratic, exponential, rational, polynomial, etc.
Problem Solving & Data (7–9 Qs)	Ratios, percentages, units, interpreting graphs, mean, median, probability
Geometry & Trig (4–6 Qs)	Area, volume, angles, triangles, and right triangle trig

• Question Types:
  • 33 multiple-choice
  • 11 student-produced (you type in the answer)

About one-third of the math questions are real-world word problems.

Reading & Writing Overview

This section comprises 54 questions, divided into two modules, each with a duration of 32 minutes. Every question is tied to a short passage (or a pair of passages) drawn from literature, science, history, or the humanities.

Reading & Writing Topic	What’s Tested
Information & Ideas (12–14 Qs)	Main ideas, inferences, text evidence, and interpreting data
Craft & Structure (13–15 Qs)	Word meanings, text purpose, and comparing texts
Expression of Ideas (8–12 Qs)	Improving clarity, transitions, and achieving writing goals
Standard English (11–15 Qs)	Grammar, punctuation, verb/pronoun agreement, sentence structure

Your total PSAT score ranges from 320 to 1520. The test is adaptive, meaning that your performance in the first module affects the difficulty of the second module. While a high score can be achieved by performing well in the early stages, strong performance can still result in respectable results, even if you are assigned to a simpler module.

Additionally, a percentile rank will be provided to indicate how your result compares to that of other students. 

Strategies to Score Well in the PSAT

This is where this PSAT Prep guide comes into play; We’ll give you a comprehensive guide on how to prepare for the SAT, so that you not only score well, but Ace it.

1. Understand the Exam Format

Learn the PSAT’s format, which consists of parts on reading, writing, language, and math. The PSAT lacks an essay component and is significantly less demanding than the SAT.

2. Identify Strengths and Weaknesses

Start with a diagnostic test to identify areas that call for work.  This targeted approach ensures efficient study planning.​

3. Practice Regularly with Full-Length Tests

Consistent practice with full-length exams enhances familiarity with question types and timing, building confidence for the actual test. ​

4. Analyse Mistakes and Refine Strategies

Review incorrect answers to understand mistakes and adjust strategies accordingly. This reflective practice is key to continuous improvement. ​

5. Simulate Real Test Conditions

Take practice tests under exam-like conditions to build stamina and reduce test-day anxiety. ​

How Turito Can Help

Now, all this might sound quite complicated, but it doesn’t have to be. At Turito, we can help you get this master plan in the PSAT Test Guide into action.

• Live Online Classes: Attend interactive lessons led by professional tutors covering all PSAT subject areas. 
• Personalized Study Plans: Receive tailored programs based on your diagnostic test findings, emphasizing areas that need improvement. ​
• Extensive Practice Resources: To hone your abilities, access a large selection of practice problems and full-length tests.
• Performance Tracking: Track your development using comprehensive statistics to stay on target and adjust your study schedule as needed.
• Flexible Learning: Gain from the ease of learning anywhere, at any time, to easily fit appropriate study sessions into your calendar.

Conclusion

Confidence, strategy, and preparation are the three primary components of mastering the PSAT. A foundation for success is established by comprehending the test format, recognizing your strengths and limitations, and practicing consistently. Expert-led live classes, personalized study plans, and exhaustive practice resources are all provided by Turito to facilitate this journey. Their performance monitoring tools and adaptable learning options guarantee that you maintain your concentration and progress steadily. Although PSAT scores are not sent to colleges, a strong performance can improve your SAT readiness and grant you access to scholarships. Consequently, use the PSAT prep guide as a training ground prepare judiciously with Turito, and make a significant initial stride towards your academic goals.

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