What to Expect on the PSAT/NMSQT

/ Breakaway Prep Park City/

PSAT/NMSQT … say that 3 times fast! What does it all mean? The PSAT, or “practice SAT”, is generally taken the fall of your junior year. It is a shorter version of the SAT at only 2 hours and 45 minutes. There are four sections: Reading, Writing and Language, Math-no calculator, and Math-calculator.

For juniors, your test scores may qualify you for the National Merit Scholarship (NMSQT = National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test). The top 1% of test-takers can become National Merit Scholars and receive scholarship money and recognition. Even if you feel like National Merit is out of reach, the PSAT is still valuable practice and will provide a good indicator of your potential scores on the SAT.

Here is a short overview of each of the sections:

Reading (60 minutes)

There are 5 passages with 47 total questions.

  • Answers are in the text; You do not have to make assumptions

  • Questions are generally in order of the text

  • Read questions first and circle/flag the “paired questions”

  • Save the “main topic” questions for last

Writing and Language (35 minutes)

There are 4 passages with 44 total questions.

  • General guideline is to be clear, concise, consistent and complete!

  • Some passages will have charts and ask you to read data from charts

  • Punctuation, grammar, and vocabulary in context

Math – No Calculator (25 minutes)

This is a “Grid IN”

This is a “Grid IN”

There will be a total of 17 questions.

  • Questions will start easy and get more difficult

  • A reference chart is provided, be familiar with what is on there

  • 4 questions will be “grid ins” – be sure to review instructions in advance of test day!

Math – Calculator (45 minutes)

There will be a total of 31 questions.

  • Questions will start easy and get more difficult

  • A reference chart is provided, be familiar with what is on there

  • 4 questions will be “grid ins” – be sure to review instructions in advance of test day!

How to Prepare?

The best way to prepare for the PSAT is to review the sample PSATs online to familiarize yourself with the format and instructions. We recommend printing the test out in order to simulate test day conditions. Make sure you go to bed early the night before and have a good breakfast!

If you still have questions or are looking for more practice, Breakaway Prep Park City can help in a couple of different ways:

Free Practice Tests: Breakaway Prep Park City offers free practice tests every Sunday and by appointment. Sign up to reserve your spot today! Space is limited to 6 students.

One-on-One Tutoring: One-on-one we can work at the student's pace, customizing the approach and materials to match the student's strengths and challenges. No need to commit to a certain number of sessions or schedule. Most students find they get the best results by starting test prep 10-12 weeks before the test working a combined 3 hours a week (tutoring and homework.)

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