For many students, the PSAT will be their first experience taking a lengthy, standardized test. The PSAT is generally considered a practice test administered to juniors and sophomores, and most students don’t prepare as seriously as they practice for the SAT test. However, the results of your PSAT can earn you National Merit distinction and money for college.
If you haven’t spent a lot of time preparing for your upcoming PSAT, don’t worry. There are a few things you can still do to increase your odds of scoring well.
Take a PSAT Practice Test
Taking a practice test can help you prepare for the length and structure of the test. If you’ve never taken a timed exam, a practice test can help you learn how to pace yourself. Furthermore, the structure of the PSAT will be exactly how you experience it in practice rounds.
The results from your practice test will be similarly helpful. Following this guidance, you can devote your time to subject areas in which you need the most work.
Focus on Your Weaknesses
With your limited time, focus on studying for the things you don’t know as well. If you breezed through the reading portion of the practice test but had trouble with the math, take time to review key concepts. Learning to use time wisely is an important part of PSAT practice.
Don’t Stress
It’s important to prepare for the PSAT, but don’t worry yourself sick about it. Instead, make an effort to stay stress-free and see the test as a way to dip your toe into the world of standardized tests. The large majority of students will not qualify for National Merit distinction. The value of your PSAT results is that they provide you with important guidance on how to move forward in preparing for the next test.
Get Extra Help With C2
At C2 Education, we specialize in working with students preparing for big exams. Stop by your local C2 Education Center today, or call us at (888) 339-5205 to learn more about our individualized test prep.
