This page is licensed under Creative Commons under Attribution 4.0 International. Anyone can share content from this page, with attribution and link to College MatchPoint requested.
While labeled a “preliminary” exam, your student’s PSAT performance provides valuable insights that, if leveraged strategically, can set them up for success on the SAT, ACT, and more. Here’s how to maximize the benefits of this practice test.
Alongside the total score, the section scores in reading, writing and math showcase your student’s subject-specific abilities. Comparing these spotlights stronger and weaker areas. The percentiles demonstrate how your teen ranked against peers nationally.
The item analysis details each question answered correctly or incorrectly. Pinpointing gaps here shows precisely which concepts need focused study. Use this data to select targeted practice resources addressing your student’s unique needs.
For 11th graders, the PSAT carries extra weight as the National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test. Outstanding scores can lead to prestigious academic recognitions that strengthen college applications.
The PSAT score provides an early indicator of SAT/ACT readiness. Use the PSAT concordance tables to estimate your junior’s potential score range on the college admission tests. This helps determine which test may better fit their strengths and scoring patterns.
In the wake of PSAT results, smart next steps for juniors may include:
- Take an official ACT practice tests to help pick the optimal exam.
- Registering for strategic test dates in the spring or summer, allowing 6-10 weeks of prep.
- Exploring group classes or tutoring to sharpen weak areas revealed on the PSAT.
- Using the item analysis to focus practice on challenging concepts needing improvement.
For 10th graders, PSAT results provide early feedback on skill levels to build upon. Comparing year-over-year scores illuminates progress and persistent gaps needing work. The PSAT gives sophomores valuable testing experience and data to shape preparation plans as juniors, when scores impact college applications. For now, reassure your younger teens that they have time to sharpen their academic abilities.
This page is licensed under Creative Commons under Attribution 4.0 International. Anyone can share content from this page, with attribution and link to College MatchPoint requested.
"College MatchPoint helps steer and advise you from beginning to end of the college search and application process. They take what can be a very stressful time and break it down into smaller, manageable pieces. Bob, Lisa and their staff support their student clients, enabling them to find the best fit. You can trust that the process will work; it did for all 3 of my very different kids."
— Ellen Miura
Sign up with your email address to receive news and updates.
ALL RIGHTS RESERVED | COLLEGE MATCHPOINT | SITE BY FIX8