PSAT is a preparation test to help students prepare for the SAT. In that context, preparing for PSAT (preparing for the preparation) may appear to be an unwanted task. It is not. SAT is one of the most competitive examinations there is in terms of the number of students who take it every year. How well you do, depends both on the score you get as well as how that score compares to those of the other examinees. The more you are able to prepare the more you will become familiar with the subjects and comfortable with the format of the test. Preparing for the PSAT is not just an important part of being ready for the SAT; it will also enable you to know your strengths and weaknesses so you can focus your study to strengthen those areas that require it. PSAT is also the qualifying test for the National Merit Scholarship – and financial support for your studies is always welcome. The tutors at Catalyze Center are well qualified to help you analyze your PSAT results and guide you to what you need to do to cover your shortfalls.
Know the Format
PSAT is very similar to SAT, but not identical. It has fewer questions, the essay section is missing and the overall standard is marginally lower. There are 4 sections – Reading, Writing & Language, Math without using a calculator, and Math using a calculator. Each has a different timeframe and marks. All have multiple-choice questions.
Set Your Target Score
Your target PSAT score should be the minimum SAT score that obtained admission to the colleges of your choice in the last year. Remember that this is an absolute minimum score – if the average marks obtained overall (the percentile) is higher this year, the minimum cut-off score for admission will also rise.
Practice
As with any examination, the more you practice for PSAT the more comfortable you will be with the subjects and the test format. Unfortunately, PSAT underwent major changes a few years ago. Because of this, there are not a very large number of good reliable practice tests available online. Using unreliable information from the net can lead to confusion, misdirect your preparation and give you a false sense of confidence or insecurity. An online PSAT preparation course is the best way to get the practice you need.
Analyze Your Results
Your PSAT practice tests will hep you to identify your areas of weakness. Devote more time on this. Here, the tutors at Catalyze Center will be able to help to overcome your weaknesses.
PSAT preparation is essential to doing well in the test. And doing well in PSAT is critical to success in SAT itself. Do not underestimate the importance of the test or the difficulty – just because it is marginally easier that SAT does not mean it is easy to get a good score. If you have not already done so, start your online PSAT tuition without delay. If you are already receiving online PSAT tuition, your teachers will be aware of your strengths and weaknesses and be able to give you specific preparation advice that meets your individual needs.