What is the PSAT
Why It Matters
Strategy & Test Taking Tips
Reading, Writing & Math Skills
Myths & Facts
100

What does PSAT stand for?

Preliminary SAT

100

What scholarship can a high score on the PSAT qualify you for?

National Merit Scholarship

100

Should you guess if you're not sure of an answer?

Yes, there’s no penalty

100

What does a grammar question usually test?

Punctuation, subject-verb agreement, sentence structure

100

True or False: You can only take the PSAT once.

False

200

What two main subjects are on the PSAT?

Reading & Writing, Math

200

In what grade does the PSAT count for National Merit?

11th grade

200

What's one good way to manage your time during the test?

Pace yourself, don’t get stuck, use time checks

200

What kind of math is most tested?

Algebra

200

True or False: The PSAT is harder than the SAT.

False (it’s slightly easier)

300

How long is the PSAT in total?

About 2 hours and 14 minutes

300

Name one benefit of taking the PSAT besides scholarships.

Practice for the SAT / Identifying strengths / Gaining test experience

300

What's a smart strategy for reading comprehension questions?

Read the passage and underline key ideas / Look back at the text

300

What does “words in context” mean on the PSAT?

Understanding vocabulary based on how it’s used in a passage

300

True or False: The PSAT is just for smart kids.

False – it’s for everyone preparing for college

400

What organization creates the PSAT?

College Board

400

What score range can you earn on the PSAT?

320–1520

400

What math tool is now allowed on the digital PSAT for all questions?

Desmos calculator (built-in)

400

What does a graph question usually ask you to do?

Interpret or analyze data

400

True or False: You must study hours every day to do well on the PSAT.

False. Short, focused practice works too

500

True or False: The PSAT includes an essay section.

False

500

True or False: Colleges can see your PSAT scores.

False (not unless you opt in to Student Search Service)

500

What’s one good way to prepare for the PSAT at home?

Use Khan Academy / Take practice tests / Review missed questions

500

What is a common type of writing/editing question?

Choosing the clearest or most concise version of a sentence

500

True or False: The PSAT score doesn’t matter at all.

False. It can lead to scholarships and shows your college readiness