psat essay

PSAT: Complete Guide to the Writing & Language Section

What are the psat sections.

On the PSAT, you'll work through four sections of the test. These four sections are:

• Reading Test 📚
• Writing and Language Test 📝
• Math Test - Calculator 🧮
• Math Test - No Calculator ➗

After working through the hour-long reading test, you'll start thinking 🤔 like a writer while taking on the 35 minute writing and language section! In this guide, you'll learn about the different elements of this section, analyze strategies to pursue, and get some practice at the end.

Breaking Down Writing and Language

Writing and Language is the only section on the PSAT that gives you less than a minute per question, but there's no need to worry, because there's not a lot of reading you'll need to do. In 35 minutes, you'll take on 44 questions split among four passages (eleven questions per passage) ⏲️

Passages will cover a variety of topics, so you might even find a pasage that interests you. The possible categories and topics of writing include:

• Nonfiction narratives
• Social Studies

While you won't be using a red pen on the PSAT, answering questions on the Writing and Language test is just like editing a classmate's paper.

Types of Questions

On this section, you'll have a passage on the left side of the page with questions on the right side. Unlike the reading section, you don't need to flip back and forth between passages and questions to revise and edit! 😌

You'll see five categories of questions on the PSAT Writing and Language section. Let's break down each of these sections.

Command of Evidence

This is the core of the revision aspect of the Writing and Language section. When tested on command of evidence, you'll pick an answer choice that best improves a passage's communication of information and ideas. ⭐

For instance, you may answer questions that ask about the best way to enhance an argumentative claim or whether an added supporting detail is relevant.

Common questions in the command of evidence category include:

• Which choice best reflects the information from the graph?
• Which choice best completes the sentence and accurately represents the information in the table?
• Which choice would set up the information that follows?
• The writer is considering adding/deleting the underlined sentence . . . Should the sentence be kept or deleted?

Here's what that may look like on the PSAT:

This question exemplifies the command of evidence category.

Words in Context

Questions that cover words in context want you to improve the word choice (or diction ) of a specific piece of text. Here is where the rule "shorter is better" often applies—you want to pick the most concise answer that isn't repetitive.

You could also be asked to use word choice that is more precise or improves style/tone. Here are ways you will apply words in context on the PSAT Writing and Language section:

• Finding a concise way of conveying an idea that does not change the meaning
• Not changing a linguistic pattern, such as the use of repetition for emphasis
• Using more formal language or informal language depending on the tone of the passage
• Combining two sentences or editing sentences for a less choppy paragraph

Analysis in History/Social Studies and in Science

You'll encounter at least one history/social studies and/or science passage. In this category of questions, you'll make edits to a passage in these areas.

These questions may also include tables/graphs/charts, but you will not need to do any math when applying those graphics to the passage. Here's an example of a question in this category:

Here's what a question about analysis in science looks like.

Expression of Ideas

These questions are a catch-all for questions that don't really apply to any other section. Example questions in this category could discuss:

• Impact of the passages' organization and possible revisions
• Structural changes (like moving around paragraphs)
• How well sentences & paragraphs work together/transition

Here's an example of a question in this category:

Placement of sentences for organization is a core aspect of the expression of ideas category.

Standard English Conventions

The standard English conventions section is fairly self-explanatory, and it covers the foundations of English: punctuation, usage, and sentence structure. You'll answer questions that ask you to change words, clauses, sentences, and punctuation, which include a variety of grammar topics:

• Parallel construction
• Subject-verb agreement
• Connecting sentences
• Proper use of commas, colons, dashes, and semicolons

Here's an example of a standard English conventions question:

Knowing how to effectively use commas and dashes is crucial to standard English conventions and scoring high on writing and language.

Review of Conventions

Here's a useful table that will help you remember some common PSAT grammar rules!

PSAT Grammar Review

Writing and Language: Advice

With around 47 seconds per question, here are some pointers so you succeed!

• Don't read the passage! You won't have time to answer questions if you're trying to read for details. This isn't the reading section—make sure to just read context around questions.
• Annotate the text. Even though test-takers do most of their annotating on reading and math, annotating on this section allows you to figure out the answer to a question before you even look at the answer choices.
• Process of elimination is key. Oftentimes, picking the best answer means eliminating three answers that are worse. Make sure to cross out answer choices that you know won't work.
• Remember to substitute . For multiple writing & language questions, substituting sentences, words, or phrases will help you choose, in context, the correct answer.

Remember to bubble as you go as well; a nightmare scenario is finishing the test but not being able to bubble in time!

Practice Passage & Questions

Want some quick practice? Here's an 11 question practice PSAT section that you should try to complete in about 9 minutes (in accordance with real timing). Note that this mostly tests your knowledge of standard English conventions! Test comes courtesy of CrackSAT .

More and more of our lives are mechanized, and at some point, we have to start wondering, what's the limit of that mechanization? Many factory workers in the 19th century thought their jobs were safe but we know (1) now that they were wrong. Many people in today's world believe there jobs (2) are safe, but how safe are those jobs really?

Studies abound that ask whether man or machine is better at particular tasks, and the results are not always so obvious. Sure, a machine is obviously better at say, welding (3) huge pieces of steel together, but what would you say if someone told you people are more likely to open up to a machine than to a psychologist? Or that a machine could write a quicker, more efficient news story than an experienced reporter could?

These questions may seem overly pessimistic (or overly optimistic depending on your point of view); however, (4) some recent studies have been truly remarkable. Take Ellie, a computer program used primarily to diagnose patients with depression, PTSD and other mood disorders. (5) Many patients found it easier to talk to "Ellie" than to a real person: she (6) didn't react in some of those seemingly judgmental ways that a person would, and her voice never broke on top of that (7) she could help psychologists to diagnose mental illnesses better than human observation could. She could detect facial movements or voice tones that a person might have not heard or ignored.

Whether Ellie is the way of the future is yet to be determined. We can't know right now, but there is no question that she raises some interesting questions, not only about the work of psychologists, (8) but also about all of what we think are definitively human activities.

On the other side of the discussion, however, there's some evidence that humans may have the upper hand. In some of the more basic tasks those learned before the age of about 10 humans (9) have a huge upper hand. Computers can do the complex thinking, but one thing with which they have a lot of trouble is, paradoxically, simplicity. Sure, a computer can tell your washer's and dryer's what (10) a perfect washing and drying cycle is, but can it fold your laundry? Your GPS can tell you the fastest route to the next state, but can it tell you the prettiest way to go or the best restaurants along the way? Not without humans!

While the battle of man against machine rages on. The (11) questions will persist. No matter who wins, though, humans will almost assuredly find ways to adapt: that's something we've been doing for thousands of years, which is something that no computer can say.

A. NO CHANGE

B. were safe, but we know

C. were safe; but we know

D. were safe. But we know

B. in todays world believe their jobs

C. in todays world believe they're jobs

D. in today's world believe their jobs

B. better at, say welding

C. better at, say, welding

D. better at say welding

B. your point of view), however,

C. you're point of view), however,

D. you're point of view); however,

B. depression, PTSD, and other

C. depression, PTSD, and, other

D. depression, PTSD, and other,

B. to a real person, she

C. to a real person; but she

D. to a real person she

B. never broke, on top of that,

C. never broke. On top of that,

D. never broke; on top, of that,

B. psychologists work

C. the work of psychologists

D. the work of psychologist's

B. tasks those learned before the age of about 10, humans

C. tasks, those learned before the age of about 10 humans

D. tasks, those learned before the age of about 10, humans

B. can tell your washer and dryer what

C. can tell you're washers and dryers

D. can tell you're washer and dryer

Answers & Explanations

• 1. B — You'll want to use a comma to connect these two sentences in the presence of the conjunction 'but'. Answer choice A is a run-on, so it is incorrect. Answer choice C is incorrect because semicolons can connect two sentences, but not those with conjunctions. Answer choice D is incorrect, as you can't start a sentence with a conjunction.
• 2. D — This question tests your knowledge of possessive nouns/apostrophes and there vs their vs they're. In this sentence, only answer choice D correctly has "today's" and "their." Answer choice A is wrong because it states "there jobs," when 'their' is the correct possessive noun. Neither answer choice B nor answer choice C has an apostrophe for todays, which makes both wrong.
• 3. C — The word "say" can be deemed a non-essential phrase; therefore, it should be accompanied by a comma before and after. Answer choice A is incorrect, as the use of one comma before "welding" makes it seem like the clause before the comma is a dependent clause when it isn't. Answer choice B creates a fragment prior to the comma, and answer choice D lacks the clarity that C has with two commas.
• 4. A — This question tests two common rules that some students often forget! Only answer choice A has both a semicolon before however and "your" as the possessive noun. Since an independent clause (full sentence) follows the word "however," a semicolon should come before however. Therefore, answer choice B and C are wrong. Answer choice D incorrectly uses you're (you are) instead of your.
• 5. B — On the SAT, commas in lists should be placed between each item in addition to being placed before the conjunction and (also known as the Oxford comma). Thus, answer choice B correctly places commas after "depression," "PTSD," and the word "and." Answer choice A lacks the Oxford comma, answer choice C incorrectly places a comma after "and," and answer choice D places an unnecessary comma after the word "other."
• 6. A — The use of a colon as an explanation is correct, which is why no change is acceptable. Answer choice B creates a run-on with a comma separating two independent clauses (it should be a semicolon instead). Answer choice C is incorrect as it has a semicolon followed by a conjunction (it should be a comma instead), and answer choice D creates a run on.
• 7. C — Having the words "on top of that" to start a new sentence creates the clearest transition, which makes C the best answer. This question exemplifies process of elimination, as answer choices A and B create a run on and answer choice D has an unnecessary comma after the word "top."
• 8. C — Answer choice C correctly deletes the apostrophe present in answer choice A and D, as the word "of" basically serves as an indication that the work is possessed by the psychologists. Answer choice B lacks an apostrophe (it should be psychologists').
• 9. D — The clause 'those learned before the age of about 10' serves as a non-essential phrase and therefore needs a comma before and after. Answer choice A leads to a run-on with no commas. Answer choice B creates an awkward dependent clause with the word "those," and answer choice C has an awkward independent clause with the word "those." Therefore, D has the clearest and most precise answer.
• 10. B — Answer choice B has the correct use of "your" and the lack of possessive nouns. Answer choice A is incorrect as washer/dryer have unnecessary apostrophes. Answer choice C and D both use "you're" (you are) instead of your.
• 11. D — Since the clause before question 11 starts with "while," it is a dependent clause and needs a comma prior to the independent clause, making answer choice D the best answer. Answer choice A is incorrect as the first sentence is a fragment. Answers B and C are wrong as you cannot use a semicolon or an en dash to connect a dependent and independent clause.

Practice Resources

If you need help with PSAT Writing and Language, here are some resources and PSAT practice tests you can use to score high on test day:

• Khan Academy —While preparation is more geared towards the SAT on Khan Academy, the PSAT and SAT have lots of overlapping content. In addition, you'll get valuable practice for the SAT, which you may need to take for college admissions.
• Crack SAT —CrackSAT offers links to previously released PSAT and SAT tests that you can take for practice.
• Critical Reader —The Critical Reader offers great example sentences and further explains different grammar rules crucial for the PSAT Writing and Language section.

Guide Outline

Related content, what is the psat, psat: complete guide to the math section, psat: complete guide to the reading section.

Stay Connected

US South Carolina

Recently viewed courses

Recently viewed.

Find Your Dream School

This site uses various technologies, as described in our Privacy Policy, for personalization, measuring website use/performance, and targeted advertising, which may include storing and sharing information about your site visit with third parties. By continuing to use this website you consent to our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use .

   COVID-19 Update: To help students through this crisis, The Princeton Review will continue our "Enroll with Confidence" refund policies. For full details, please click here.

• Digital PSAT Home
• Essentials Course
• About Digital PSAT
• Digital PSAT Test Dates
• National Merit Scholarship
• Free Tests and Events

The NEW Digital PSAT Test

The Digital PSAT/NMSQT is the digital implementation of the Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test. The Digital PSAT is a great primer for the Digital SAT, and even the ACT, but it’s more than just a trial run. Digital PSAT scores are used to identify National Merit Scholars and award merit scholarships. More than 3.4 million high school students (mostly juniors and sophomores) take this nationwide, multiple-choice test every year. 

What is the Digital PSAT and why is it important?

The Digital PSAT/NMSQT won’t count towards your college admissions applications, but it is the qualifying test for the  National Merit Scholarship . Some of the highest scoring students may win scholarship money, so while you shouldn’t stress out about the Digital PSAT on test day, you certainly shouldn’t ignore it either. Use the Digital PSAT/NMSQT as practice for the Digital SAT and ACT and an important guidepost on your college admissions journey.

Digital PSAT/NMSQT Quick Facts

Digital psat /nmsqt changes, when is the digital psat.

The Digital PSAT is offered nationally every year in October, beginning in the fall of 2023. Ask your school counselor about when your class is scheduled to take the Digital PSAT so you can be ready on test day. View upcoming Digital PSAT test dates ranges .

What does the Digital PSAT test include?

The Digital PSAT has two sections: Math and Evidence-Based Reading and Writing.  You’ll encounter passage-based questions—sometimes accompanied by tables, graphs, and charts—and math problems drawing upon algebra, geometry, and a little trig.

How is the Digital PSAT scored?

Each section is scored on a scale of 160–760, making a “perfect” score 1520. There are also test scores, cross-test scores, and subscores. Find out more about Digital PSAT scoring .

Did I get a good Digital PSAT score?

Good question. The highest scores and percentiles earn National Merit Recognition. But Digital PSAT scores are also useful in determining your best prep strategies for the Digital SAT or ACT. For a Digital PSAT score report consultation, call us at 800-2REVIEW .

How do I register for the Digital PSAT?

Check with a counselor at your school or at a school in your community to sign up.

How will I do on the Digital PSAT?

Curious where your score starts for the Digital PSAT? Take a practice test and see how you did with our interactive score report.

How should I prepare for the Digital PSAT?

Check out our customized 1-on-1 private tutoring program that is as unique as each of our students. It begins with a practice test, and then your tutor will create a program tailor fit for you. Learn more today.

Explore Colleges For You

Connect with our featured colleges to find schools that both match your interests and are looking for students like you.

Top Colleges for Game Design

Are you an aspiring video game designer? Launch your gaming career at one of these top 50 programs.

Southern New Hampshire University Online Program

SNHU students complete undergrad degrees in one of 150+ programs or majors on their own time with flexible class schedules. SNHU makes earning an undergraduate degree and furthering your education accessible and affordable.

Best 389 Colleges

165,000 students rate everything from their professors to their campus social scene.

Free MCAT Practice Test

I already know my score.

MCAT Self-Paced 14-Day Free Trial

Enrollment Advisor

1-800-2REVIEW (800-273-8439) ext. 1

1-877-LEARN-30

Mon-Fri 9AM-10PM ET

Sat-Sun 9AM-8PM ET

Student Support

1-800-2REVIEW (800-273-8439) ext. 2

Mon-Fri 9AM-9PM ET

Sat-Sun 8:30AM-5PM ET

Partnerships

• Teach or Tutor for Us

College Readiness

International

Advertising

Affiliate/Other

• Enrollment Terms & Conditions
• Accessibility
• Cigna Medical Transparency in Coverage

Register Book

Local Offices: Mon-Fri 9AM-6PM

• SAT Subject Tests

Academic Subjects

• Social Studies

Find the Right College

• College Rankings
• College Advice
• Applying to College
• Financial Aid

School & District Partnerships

• Professional Development
• Advice Articles
• Private Tutoring
• Mobile Apps
• Local Offices
• International Offices
• Work for Us
• Affiliate Program
• Partner with Us
• Advertise with Us
• International Partnerships
• Our Guarantees
• Accessibility – Canada

Privacy Policy | CA Privacy Notice | Do Not Sell or Share My Personal Information | Your Opt-Out Rights | Terms of Use | Site Map

©2024 TPR Education IP Holdings, LLC. All Rights Reserved. The Princeton Review is not affiliated with Princeton University

TPR Education, LLC (doing business as “The Princeton Review”) is controlled by Primavera Holdings Limited, a firm owned by Chinese nationals with a principal place of business in Hong Kong, China.

Why the PSAT Matters

• Sasha Chada
• August 21, 2023

Table of Contents

Share this post.

The Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test (PSAT-NMSQT, or more commonly just the PSAT) is an introductory version of the SAT (which is no longer an acronym ), generally taken by high school students in either their sophomore or junior year. While it is generally quite similar to the SAT, there are a few key differences. The biggest difference, at least for many students, is that they don’t think the PSAT matters much. 

We can’t blame the students for this. High school students have many priorities, and another standardized test doesn’t seem that important, especially when the scores do not directly impact their college acceptance chances, like the SAT or ACT. In this article, we’ll explore what the PSAT is, why it matters, and whether it’s worth you spending time to prepare for it. Let’s get started!

What is the PSAT anyway?

The PSAT is organized and administered by the College Board just like the SAT, with verbal and math sections. Just as the SAT has moved to a new digital form, so too has the PSAT. The PSAT takes just as long as the SAT, asks questions on similar topics, and has the same overall format and questions. 

Unlike the SAT, it is not offered throughout the whole year, but only in October, and only through schools which have partnered with the College Board. These schools then decide which students will take it, and when. It is therefore up to your own school whether you take the PSAT at all, and whether you will take it as a sophomore or a junior. Taking the test as a junior is slightly more popular, as this lets you qualify for the National Merit Scholarship (which we discuss in more detail in the next section).

Most high schools will have you take the PSAT during the school day, as part of a planned test taking day for whichever grade is doing it. This may be a half day where you get to leave early, or may be planned around your other classes. This depends on your own school and district, and each handles the process slightly differently.

Why Should I Take the PSAT?

You aren’t alone in asking this question; it occurs so often that College Board has an entire webpage devoted to its answer. The simplest reason is that it really isn’t your choice; you will take the PSAT if your high school is one of the schools partnered with College Board, and otherwise, you likely won’t. 

Of course, that’s not really a reason why you should care about the PSAT, just why you should take it. To be clear, we think you should care about the PSAT , and doing well on it is very helpful for many students. There are two main reasons why: practice for the SAT, and the National Merit Scholarship. 

The first is, of course, to practice for the SAT. Preparing for the SAT is often a long process, and one of the most difficult parts is properly simulating the test-taking experience. While you can approximate it at home, it’s impossible to really capture the feel of taking the SAT without doing so. The PSAT gives you exactly that. 

This makes the PSAT a golden opportunity to see how prepared you are for the SAT, what kind of progress you’ve made if you’ve already begun studying, and what, if anything, you still need to work on. Because of when you take the PSAT, you will also have plenty of time to study and prepare for the SAT based on what you learn from taking the PSAT. 

More notable is the National Merit Scholarship . This scholarship is offered to many students each year, and the primary qualifier is how well you perform on the PSAT. The scholarship is open to US students who take the PSAT and who get a score that places them in the category of semifinalist.

The needed score depends on your state; the top 50,000 highest scoring students in the country are given the rank of “Commended.” Of these, around 16,000 are chosen as semifinalists. These are allotted to different states based on the percentage of graduating seniors in that state from among the total test takers; thus there are more semifinalists from Texas than from Oklahoma.

If you are chosen as a semifinalist, then you must apply for the scholarship, including an essay, a description of your activities, a copy of your grades, and a letter of recommendation. The scholarship committee uses these to select the finalists. There are 2,500 $2,500 scholarships awarded, plus additional scholarships awarded by colleges and institutions which have partnered with the National Merit Scholarship, and which also use the PSAT as a qualifier.

This is valuable not just for the scholarship money (which is always good to have), but because many colleges recognize it as a sign of academic achievement, and it can be counted among your honors. Further, winning one scholarship often increases your odds of winning more, as each selection committee views previous winnings as proof you are highly qualified for their prize as well.

Should You Study for the PSAT?

This is ultimately up to you, but we believe it is valuable for most students. This is because we believe many students should begin at least preliminary preparations for taking the SAT this early, and due to the nature of the tests, preparing for one does a good job of preparing you for the other. 

Studying works best when it’s done over a long duration, rather than crammed in at the last minute. This allows you to truly master the skills and material in question, and to hone them to the level you need. For this reason, we advise many of our students to begin studying for the SAT in the summer before their junior year. 

The PSAT comes, for many students, in October of their junior year. Thus while you are preparing for the SAT, you are also preparing for the PSAT. This feeds back into itself, as the PSAT is a wonderful way to test your overall preparation for the SAT, and to see what additional work you need to do.

Depending on your school, you will likely have to take the PSAT, whether or not you care overmuch about it. Since you’re going to be taking it anyway, and there are some major potential upsides to doing well on it in the form of scholarship opportunities, why not try to do your best on it?

That isn’t to say this is a test you need to stress about, or spend hours cramming for. It does not directly impact your chances of college acceptance, and it is possible to perform poorly on this test and still do well on the real SAT or ACT. We simply believe that it is in most students’ interest to spend time preparing for this test. 

How to Study for the PSAT

Since we’ve concluded that studying for the PSAT is worth it, we should give you some advice on how to go about doing so. For more detailed advice, we recommend our articles on test prep and studying for the SAT , which cover the same material in more depth and breadth. 

In general, you can prepare for the PSAT in the same way you can prepare for the SAT (since they are essentially the same). Here are our core principles for doing so: 

• Take practice tests. This is the best way to prepare; by doing the thing you are preparing for. Try to simulate the environment and timing as best you can when taking the practice test.
• Review material to mastery. Once you have taken a practice test, you will see where you have issues to resolve. Target these individually, working to improve the needed materials and sections with practice problems outside of the test. Work to understand the core concepts that underlie the questions. 
• Practice your test taking skills. This is part of the reason for taking full practice tests, to see if and where you might struggle on a test, whether with the format for questions or getting everything finished in the allotted time frame. These too can be practiced and mastered. 

If you are looking for help preparing for the SAT, and want to start before you take the PSAT, you should check out our test prep services . We help students improve by 190 points on the SAT on average, and our tutors are masters of preparing you to ace the test.

Final Thoughts

The PSAT is another in a litany of things for you to worry about in high school, but it does have some upsides. From helping you prepare for the SAT and potentially helping you qualify for scholarships, the PSAT is a small but useful part of your high school experience. 

We hope that this article has fully introduced you to the PSAT and its purpose, and let you know how it can impact you. If you are looking for help preparing for it, or want to know more about any other aspect of preparing for or applying to college, schedule a free consultation with us today. We have a long history of helping students with their academic goals, and are always happy to hear from you.

Need help with college admissions?

Download our "guide to everything," a 90-page pdf that covers everything you need to know about the college admission process., more to explore.

The Career Outcomes of Different College Majors

Everyone knows that going to college gives you access to better career outcomes; it’s one of those pieces of information you absorb almost by osmosis

The College Application Process for Neurodivergent Students

High schools are, quite frankly, not designed to accommodate neurodivergent students. IEPs and other programs help, but the fact that they are necessary simply illustrates

Ivy Scholars is the leading educational consultant in Sugar Land, Texas, providing admissions coaching, test prep, and more to help students enroll at top tier schools.

Get In Touch

Call us now: (281) 215-5148

Houston: 4265 San Felipe St, Suite 1100, Houston, TX 77027

Get Started

Subscribe for updates, © all rights reserved.

Does the PSAT include an essay? Exam Breakdown

When it comes to the PSAT exam, students often wonder about the various sections and requirements. One common question that arises is: Does the PSAT include an essay?

Table of Contents

PSAT Exam Format and Sections

The PSAT exam consists of three main sections – Reading, Writing & Language, and Math. Each section evaluates different skills and knowledge areas, providing students with a comprehensive assessment of their academic abilities.

Reading Section

The Reading section of the PSAT includes 47 multiple-choice questions. These questions are based on passages from various subjects such as literature, historical documents, social sciences, and natural sciences. Students are tested on their ability to comprehend and analyze written material, draw inferences, and identify main ideas.

Writing & Language Section

The Writing & Language section consists of 44 multiple-choice questions on grammar, vocabulary, and editing skills. Students must identify and correct grammar, punctuation, and sentence structure errors. They must also demonstrate a strong understanding of vocabulary and use appropriate language conventions, including effective word choice and clarity.

Math Section

The Math section of the PSAT evaluates students’ mathematical problem-solving skills. It includes two portions – Calculator and No Calculator. The Calculator portion allows students to use a calculator for 31 of the 48 questions, while the No Calculator portion does not permit calculator use for the remaining 17 questions. The topics covered in the Math section include algebra, geometry, data analysis, and trigonometry.

It’s important to note that the PSAT does not include a separate writing section or essay component. As a result, essay scoring is not applicable in the PSAT exam.

PSAT Math Test

The PSAT Math test is an important component of the PSAT exam, assessing students’ mathematical knowledge and problem-solving skills. It consists of 48 questions and covers various topics, including algebra, geometry, and trigonometry.

The test is divided into two portions: Calculator and No Calculator. The Calculator portion allows students to use a calculator for certain questions, while the No Calculator portion tests their ability to solve problems without a calculator. This ensures that students can apply their mathematical skills in different scenarios and enhances their understanding of mathematical concepts.

Tips for PSAT Math Test Preparation

Here are some tips to help you prepare for the PSAT Math test:

• Review the math topics covered in your high school curriculum , including algebra, geometry, and trigonometry.
• Practice solving math problems using various resources, such as textbooks, online practice tests, and study guides.
• Familiarize yourself with the format of the PSAT Math test by reviewing sample questions and understanding the types of problems you may encounter.
• Improve your problem-solving skills, including identifying key information, using appropriate formulas or equations, and applying logical reasoning to arrive at the correct answer.
• Manage your time effectively during the test by practicing timed practice sessions and allocating sufficient time to each question.

PSAT Reading Test

The PSAT Reading test is a crucial exam component, evaluating students’ reading comprehension and analytical skills. It consists of 47 multiple-choice questions that assess their ability to comprehend and interpret passages from various subjects, including literature, historical documents, social sciences, and natural sciences.

Unlike some standardized tests, the PSAT Reading test does not include essay prompts or require essay practice. Instead, students are expected to read passages carefully, analyze the information presented, and answer questions based on their text comprehension.

🌟 Hey Students! 🚀 Ready for the ultimate experience? Join us on Studentsinside.com's Facebook , YouTube , WhatsApp , and LinkedIn . Click now for tips, fun, and success vibes! 🌈✨ #StudentLife #JoinUs

This section of the PSAT is designed to measure students’ ability to understand complex texts and draw inferences from them. It tests their comprehension of the passages’ ideas and arguments and their capacity to analyze the author’s tone, purpose, and rhetorical strategies.

The PSAT Reading test is invaluable in developing critical reading skills essential for success in college and beyond. Through practice and study, students can enhance their ability to extract information from diverse texts efficiently.

Benefits of the PSAT Reading Test

The PSAT Reading test offers several benefits to students:

• Improves comprehension skills: Students develop their ability to extract key information and comprehend complex texts by engaging with a wide range of passages from different disciplines.
• Enhances critical thinking: The test challenges students to analyze and evaluate arguments, identify supporting evidence, and draw logical conclusions.
• Boosts vocabulary and knowledge: Students gain exposure to various topics and subject matter, expanding their vocabulary and general knowledge.
• Prepares for college-level reading: The PSAT Reading test provides valuable practice for the reading demands of college courses, helping students become confident and proficient readers.

PSAT Writing & Language Test

The PSAT Writing & Language test is essential to the PSAT exam. This section assesses students’ grammar, vocabulary, and editing skills through 44 multiple-choice questions.

It focuses on non-fiction passages and arguments from various subjects, allowing students to demonstrate their proficiency in understanding and improving written texts.

This section of the PSAT does not include any writing prompts or essay-related questions. Instead, students are tasked with analyzing and revising existing passages to enhance clarity, coherence, and effectiveness.

Benefits of the PSAT Writing & Language Test

The PSAT Writing & Language test offers several benefits to students preparing for college admissions exams:

• Improves Grammar and Vocabulary: Students can enhance their writing proficiency by practicing grammar rules and expanding their vocabulary.
• Enhances Reading Comprehension: Analyzing and improving written passages helps students develop strong reading comprehension skills.
• Builds Editing Skills: Revising and editing passages based on grammar and stylistic conventions allows students to refine their editing abilities.
• Prepares for the SAT: The PSAT serves as a precursor to the SAT, and excelling in the Writing & Language test can boost confidence and performance in future college entrance exams.

Changes to the PSAT Format

Starting in fall 2023, the PSAT will undergo significant changes by introducing a digital format. This transition aims to enhance the testing experience for students and provide new features to aid in their performance. While these changes bring exciting advancements, it is important to note that the PSAT format remains consistent without including an essay section.

The digital PSAT will be shorter, saving students approximately 45 minutes of testing time. Additionally, it will incorporate new tools and resources to facilitate problem-solving and analysis. These features include a built-in graphing calculator, text annotation tools, and a timer to help students manage their time effectively.

Even with these updates, the format of the PSAT remains consistent with its existing sections, which include the Reading, Writing & Language, and Math components. Each section is designed to assess specific skills in reading comprehension, grammar, vocabulary, mathematical reasoning, and problem-solving.

Importance of the PSAT/NMSQT

The PSAT/NMSQT holds significant importance for students as it is a valuable practice version of the SAT. This exam allows students to familiarize themselves with the format and content of the SAT, helping them better prepare for college admissions exams.

While the PSAT/NMSQT provides insights into a student’s academic strengths and weaknesses in critical areas such as Reading, Writing & Language, and Math, it does not include essay prompts or scoring related to essays.

Aside from being a practice test, the PSAT/NMSQT offers additional benefits to students. It provides AP potential recommendations, helping them identify Advanced Placement courses they may excel in during high school. Furthermore, strong PSAT/NMSQT scores can open doors for students to enter the National Merit Scholarship Program, which recognizes and rewards academic excellence.

Overall, the PSAT/NMSQT plays a crucial role in students’ academic journeys, offering a platform for self-assessment, encouraging academic growth, and providing access to potential scholarships and opportunities.

PSAT Test Preparation

To prepare for the PSAT, students should focus on the content covered in their high school classes and employ effective study strategies. It is essential to review and understand the course material to ensure success on the exam.

Additionally, utilizing resources such as the official digital SAT prep at Khan Academy can help students practice and improve their skills. Although the PSAT does not include an essay section, thorough preparation in other areas can still contribute to overall success.

Here are some key tips for PSAT test preparation:

• Create a study schedule and stick to it. Allocate specific times for reviewing different subjects and topics.
• Review class notes, textbooks, and any relevant study materials teachers provide.
• Practice with sample questions and past PSAT exams to become familiar with the format and types of questions asked.
• Use online resources like Khan Academy, College Board, and other reputable educational websites to access additional study materials and practice questions.
• Form study groups with classmates to discuss and reinforce understanding of key concepts.
• Seek guidance from teachers or tutors if specific areas require further clarification or assistance.

Sample PSAT Study Schedule:

Psat/nmsqt scoring.

The PSAT/NMSQT scores range from 320 to 1520 and are calculated based on the section scores for Reading, Writing, and Math. However, since the PSAT does not include an essay component, there are no specific scoring or tips related to essays.

Taking the PSAT/NMSQT

The PSAT/NMSQT is an important exam students typically take in 11th grade, although some schools may offer it to 10th graders. It is administered at schools during October and provides students with valuable insights into their academic strengths and areas for improvement.

To take the PSAT/NMSQT, students must sign up through their respective schools. The school administration usually coordinates the registration process, and students will be informed about the specific dates, locations, and procedures for taking the exam.

PSAT/NMSQT Scores and Benefits

PSAT/NMSQT scores are crucial in understanding a student’s academic performance and setting goals for future exams, such as the SAT. These scores provide valuable insights into students’ strengths and weaknesses in key subject areas and help guide their college and career aspirations.

Additionally, PSAT/NMSQT scores unlock various student benefits and opportunities, including scholarships and personalized guidance.

Scores and Score Range

The PSAT/NMSQT scores are reported on a scale of 320 to 1520. The score range is divided into two main sections:

The total score is the sum of the Reading and Writing score and the Math score. These scores provide a comprehensive overview of a student’s performance across the different sections of the PSAT/NMSQT.

Benefits and Opportunities

PSAT/NMSQT scores open doors to a variety of benefits and opportunities for students:

• Scholarship Opportunities: The PSAT/NMSQT serves as the initial screening for the National Merit Scholarship Program, which awards scholarships to top-performing students. Students with exceptional scores may qualify for recognition and various scholarship programs.
• College and Career Guidance: PSAT/NMSQT scores provide valuable insights into a student’s academic strengths and areas for improvement. These scores can help students identify their potential college majors, explore career options, and receive personalized guidance to enhance their academic journey.
• Advanced Placement (AP) Potential: PSAT/NMSQT scores include information about students’ potential to succeed in Advanced Placement (AP) courses. This guidance helps students identify subjects they may excel in and consider taking AP courses to challenge themselves academically.

Q: Does the PSAT exam include an essay section?

A: No, the PSAT exam does not include an essay section. It consists of three main sections – Reading, Writing & Language, and Math.

Q: What are the sections in the PSAT exam?

A: The PSAT exam consists of three main sections – Reading, Writing & Language, and Math.

Q: Is there a separate writing section in the PSAT?

A: No, there is no separate writing section in the PSAT. The writing-related questions are included in the Writing & Language section.

Q: Are there essay prompts in the PSAT?

A: No, there are no essay prompts in the PSAT. The focus of the exam is on multiple-choice questions.

Q: Are there specific tips or formats for the essay in the PSAT?

A: No, there are no specific tips or format for the essay in the PSAT since it does not include an essay section.

Q: Are there any changes to the PSAT format?

A: Started in fall 2023, the PSAT will be administered digitally with new features. However, there are no changes to introduce an essay section.

Q: Why is the PSAT/NMSQT important for students?

A: The PSAT/NMSQT is a practice version of the SAT and helps students prepare for college admissions exams. It also provides insights into academic strengths and weaknesses and offers access to the National Merit Scholarship Program.

Q: How can students prepare for the PSAT?

A: The best way to prepare for the PSAT is to focus on the content covered in high school classes and study the course material effectively. Additional resources like the official digital SAT prep on Khan Academy can be used for practice.

Q: How are PSAT/NMSQT scores calculated?

A: PSAT/NMSQT scores range from 320 to 1520 and are calculated based on the section scores for Reading, Writing, and Math.

Q: When is the PSAT/NMSQT administered, and who is eligible?

A: The PSAT/NMSQT is typically taken by 11th-grade students in October. Some schools may offer it to 10th graders as well. Students need to sign up through their respective schools.

Q: What are the benefits of PSAT/NMSQT scores?

A: PSAT/NMSQT scores provide insights into a student’s academic performance, help set goals for future exams, access scholarship opportunities, and receive personalized college and career guidance.

Q: What are some common questions about the PSAT?

A: Some common questions about the PSAT include whether it has an essay section, eligibility for the National Merit Scholarship Program, and availability for younger grades (PSAT 8/9).

Mohammed Debon is an SEO Expert, Webmaster, and a proud parent of three. Mohammed created this website to help fellow parents find comprehensive information about various educational programs and make well-informed decisions for their children's future. With expertise in the digital landscape, Mohammed aims to streamline the process of selecting the right education system and provide valuable resources for parents worldwide.

Similar Posts

IELTS vs Duolingo: Which is Better for Language Learning?

IELTS is a language proficiency test developed collaboratively by the British Council, IDP Education, and Cambridge Assessment English. Introduced in 1989, it enjoys recognition from over 10,000 global organizations, including universities and educational institutions. The primary aim of IELTS is to evaluate the English language skills of individuals from non-English-speaking backgrounds, particularly those aspiring to…

IELTS Requirement for Canada Student Visa: Everything You Need to Know

The IELTS, a widely recognized English proficiency test, assesses communication skills and is essential for students aiming to study in Canada. It proves that educational institutions, employers, and governments accept English proficiency globally. International students must attain a minimum IELTS score for a Canadian student visa, with specific requirements varying by institution and program. Typically,…

Pros and Cons of Transferring High Schools: A Comprehensive Analysis

Transferring high schools can be challenging for many students and their families. It involves leaving behind familiar faces, adapting to a new environment, and potentially sacrificing extracurricular activities and academic progress.  However, transferring has potential benefits, such as the opportunity for a fresh start, access to new resources, and exposure to different perspectives. A high…

How to Enhance the Academic Performance of Weak Students: Essential Tips for Teachers and Parents

Educators face the challenge of improving the academic performance of weak students. A comprehensive approach is needed to enhance learning outcomes that consider individual needs and foster a supportive environment.  Effective strategies can be implemented to empower struggling students to excel. Acknowledging the diverse learning styles and abilities of students is critical. Identifying their strengths and…

Gaokao: Your Guide to China’s College Exam

Students spend years preparing for Gaokao as it significantly impacts their prospects. It covers subjects like Chinese literature, mathematics, foreign languages, and additional subjects based on the student’s chosen field. The Gaokao exam is scored on a scale of 750 to 950 points, with different subjects carrying different weights. Universities use these results to determine…

GRE vs. GMAT: Which Test Should You Take?

The GRE and GMAT are standardized tests used for graduate school admissions. The GRE stands for Graduate Record Examination and is accepted by most graduate schools, including business schools. The GMAT, on the other hand, is primarily used for business school admissions. Both tests measure students’ critical thinking, analytical writing, and problem-solving skills. The tests…

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

If you're seeing this message, it means we're having trouble loading external resources on our website.

If you're behind a web filter, please make sure that the domains *.kastatic.org and *.kasandbox.org are unblocked.

To log in and use all the features of Khan Academy, please enable JavaScript in your browser.

What are your chances of acceptance?

Calculate for all schools, your chance of acceptance.

Your chancing factors

Extracurriculars.

PSAT vs. SAT: Is the PSAT Easier?

Millions of college-bound students take the SAT every year. You probably know that many colleges use the test (or the ACT) in the admissions process. But what about the PSAT? Why do you take it? Is it easier than the SAT — and what can it tell you about how you’ll do on the college admissions test?

What are the PSAT and SAT?

The PSAT is used primarily to give students an introduction to standardized testing and practice for the SAT proper. It is also used as a qualifying exam for the National Merit Scholarship program (this is why it’s called the PSAT/NMSQT; NMSQT stands for “National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test”). 

Eligible students who are juniors at the time of the test are automatically entered into the National Merit competition , which includes several levels. Top 1% scorers are designated semi-finalists, and they go on to compete for $2,500 finalist scholarships based on test scores, grades, recommendations, and an essay.

Students also receive detailed score reports after taking the PSAT, which will help guide their preparation for the SAT. An interesting fact is that “PSAT” doesn’t actually stand for “pre-SAT.” It actually stands for “Preliminary Scholarship Aptitude Test.”

The SAT (Scholastic Assessment Test), meanwhile, is used for college admissions purposes. Prior to the pandemic, most colleges in the US required students to submit scores from either the SAT or ACT. Since many students were unable to test during the pandemic, a majority of schools became test-optional for the 2020-2021 admissions cycle , and some are reevaluating their policies going forward.

PSAT vs. SAT: Key Differences

Wondering how exactly these tests differ? Here’s what you need to know.

1. Grade Levels

Students normally take the PSAT between grades 8 and 11. There are three variations: PSAT 8/9 (for 8th and 9th graders), PSAT 10 (for 10th graders), and PSAT/NMSQT (for 11th graders). 

Meanwhile, the SAT can be taken any year, although we recommend doing so in grades 11 and 12, when you’ll have gained the most knowledge of the material covered.

2. Content Difficulty

While the tests follow the same structure and cover the same content, the SAT is more difficult than the PSAT. They do cover the same subjects, but the SAT’s material is a bit more advanced, reflecting the expectation that students will have learned more by the time they take the test. 

The SAT without the essay is 20 minutes longer than the PSAT; with the essay, it’s more than an hour longer. The chart below shows the section-by-section breakdown:

Discover your chances at hundreds of schools

Our free chancing engine takes into account your history, background, test scores, and extracurricular activities to show you your real chances of admission—and how to improve them.

The SAT score range is 400-1600 total, with each of the two sections, Math and Evidence-Based Reading and Writing (ERW), scored between 200-800. If you complete the essay, you’ll receive three total essay scores, one each for a different dimension, each graded on a scale of 2-8. A “good” SAT score is highly dependent on the colleges you’re aiming for.

Subscores, which measure your skills in different areas, such as Expression of Ideas (EWR) and Heart of Algebra (Math). The main subsections of EWR, Reading and Writing and Language, are each scored on a scale of 10-40.

The PSAT, meanwhile, is graded on a scale of 320-1520, with each section scored between 160-760. See our post What is a Good PSAT Score? for more info on how you stack up with other test-takers.

Like the SAT subsections, PSAT subsections are scored between 1-15. However, Reading and Writing and Language are each scored on a scale of 1-40.

If you want to convert your PSAT score to a predicted SAT score, take a look at this table. Keep in mind that the PSAT scores are for the PSAT/NMSQT and not for other versions of the test. You’re also not guaranteed to perform equally well on the SAT; you will need to study and get a strong grasp of the more difficult material.

The SAT has an optional essay, which some colleges require (in non-pandemic years). The essay is scored separately and no impact on your composite score. Meanwhile, the PSAT has no essay.

6. Cost & Timing

The PSAT/NMSQT costs $16, and is offered once per year in October (there is an extra January sitting in 2021 because of the pandemic ). The SAT costs $49.50, and is offered multiple times per year.

Is the PSAT Easier Than the SAT?

Yes — for the most part, the PSAT is easier than the SAT. The test takes less time to complete, and the content covered is not as difficult. But remember that you’ll probably take the SAT later in school, when you’ve learned more.

The PSAT can also be a good indicator of your performance on the SAT. No matter how you do, though, you should still study for the SAT. The PSAT can also serve as a way to guide your preparation for the SAT, allowing you to pinpoint your weaker areas and focus on honing them. Check out our guides for help with your preparation, too.

How will your standardized test scores factor into your admissions decisions? When predicting whether you’ll be admitted to your top schools, we’ll take your scores, GPA, extracurriculars, and other factors into consideration. Our Chancing Engine will pinpoint your real chances of admission to more than 500 colleges and universities — all for free.

Related CollegeVine Blog Posts

College Reality Check

What is the PSAT? Practice Test Included

The PSAT stands for Preliminary Scholastic Aptitude Test. Administered by the College Board, it’s a standardized test that helps high school students prepare for a major college entrance exam and a prestigious merit-based scholarship.

Created as a practice test for high schoolers who are planning on taking the SAT, the PSAT helps boost college admissions chances by improving SAT performance. In addition, the PSAT serves as a qualifying exam for college-bound teens who are interested in winning the National Merit Scholarship Program.

This post contains some of the most essential things you need to know about the PSAT.

Is the PSAT Important for College Admissions?

The PSAT is not an important standardized test for college admissions. That’s because it’s not considered as one of those college admissions tests such as the SAT and ACT that test-required and test-optional institutions take into account in the admissions process. As a matter of fact, the College Board does not send PSAT scores to colleges.

While the PSAT won’t have a direct impact on your chances of getting an acceptance letter from your top-choice school, it can, however, determine your eligibility for the National Merit Scholarship.

Do You Have to Take the PSAT?

Some high schools require students to take the PSAT, and most of them take care of the registration fee, too. Otherwise, it’s completely up to the high schooler to decide whether or not they will sit for the PSAT.

However, being the PSAT/NMSQT, those who wish to apply for the National Merit Scholarship Program should take the standardized test in the 11th grade.

It may be a practice test for the SAT alright, but the PSAT is not a prerequisite for taking the SAT.

Read Also: 13 College Entrance Exams And When To Take Them

Can Colleges See How Many Times You Took the PSAT?

Colleges cannot see how many times applicants took the PSAT. Other than not being an important part of the college admissions process, the College Board does not send PSAT scores to institutions of higher education. Throughout their high school careers, teens can only take the PSAT, which is administered only once a year, up to 3 times.

For high schoolers who like to boost their chances of winning the National Merit Scholarship, taking the PSAT 1 or 2 times before their junior year may be done. It can also help increase their SAT scores and, ultimately, college admissions chances.

What is on the PSAT?

The components of the PSAT are the very same components of the SAT. After all, it serves as a practice test for the SAT. While it’s made up of 3 tests, there are only 2 primary sections of the PSAT: the Evidence-Based Reading & Writing (EWRB) and Math sections. However, unlike in the SAT, test-takers will encounter a few write-in questions, too, in the PSAT.

According to the PSAT website itself, some of the math questions will require you to write an answer instead of choosing it.

How Many Sections are on the PSAT?

The 2 main sections of the PSAT are the EWRB section and the Math section. The EBRW section is made up of Reading and Writing & Language. The Math section, on the other hand, consists of 2 sub-sections: the no-calculator section and the calculator-optional section. There is no optional Essay section on the PSAT, such as the case with the SAT in the past.

Even though the PSAT is a slightly shorter and slightly easier version of the SAT, therefore making it a practice test, both standardized tests are pretty much similar. And that is why the PSAT can help prepare you better for the SAT.

How Many Questions is the PSAT?

The PSAT has a total of 139 questions — the vast majority of them are multiple-choice questions, while a few of them, which are found in the Math section of the PSAT, are write-in questions. Of all the sections, the Math section has the most number of questions. The Writing & Language component of the EWRB section, meanwhile, has the least number of questions.

Here’s a table showing the number of questions each section of the PSAT has:

What Kind of Math is on the PSAT?

The Math section of the PSAT focuses on various areas of mathematics that play the biggest role in numerous academic majors and minors. The College Board refers to the various types of math included in the PSAT as Heart of Algebra, Problem Solving and Data Analysis, Passport to Advanced Math and Additional Topics in Math.

Below is a description of the math kinds you will encounter when sitting for the PSAT:

• Heart of Algebra – knowledge of linear equations and systems
• Problem Solving and Data Analysis – problem analysis and obtaining information from data
• Passport to Advanced Math – questions involving the manipulation of equations
• Additional Topics in Math – college-relevant geometry and trigonometry

Is There Science on the PSAT?

Even though there is no section on the PSAT that’s dedicated to science, some passages are science-related. For instance, the Reading portion of the EBRW section has either 1 or 2 science passages as well as a set of paired science passages, all of which contain a lot of technical terms and jargon that set them apart from other passages.

Both the PSAT and SAT do not have any science sections. On the other hand, the ACT has a science section, which makes it more appealing to some high school teens who consider science as their strength.

Is There Writing on the PSAT?

The PSAT has a Writing section, which is a part of the Writing & Language component of the EBRW section. The Writing section requires test-takers to read passages and then find mistakes and/or weaknesses and correct them. Despite the name, the Writing section contains multiple-choice questions and does not require students to write something.

An argument, informative or explanatory text, or a nonfiction narrative — these are the kinds of passages you will have to carefully read to answer the questions in the PSAT’s Writing section.

How Does the PSAT Work?

In this part of the post, we will discuss various things related to taking the PSAT, including how your test will be scored and what score you should get to impress colleges and qualify for the National Merit Scholarship.

What Does the PSAT Measure?

The PSAT is structured very similarly to the SAT, for which it serves as a practice test. It goes without saying that the PSAT is designed to measure the same things that the SAT is meant to measure. They are reading, writing and math skills that high school students learn in the classroom, all of which are necessary for college and career success.

Because the PSAT can be taken in as early as the 9th grade, the PSAT cannot necessarily determine a student’s college readiness. However, it can help ascertain whether or not a teen is on the right track through grade-level benchmarks.

Is the PSAT Multiple Choice?

Most of the questions on the PSAT are multiple-choice kinds, and each multiple-choice question is accompanied by 4 answer choices. While there are multiple-choice questions in the Math section of the PSAT, some of them require test-takers to write in their answers rather than select them. All in all, there are 8 write-in questions on the PSAT.

Questions where students have to provide their responses are also referred to as grid-in questions or simply grid-ins as they need to enter their answers in the grids found on the answer sheet.

Is the PSAT a Standardized Test?

The PSAT is a standardized test because it is given to high schoolers in a consistent or standard fashion. This means that all the questions on the test are all the same for all students no matter which high school they are attending.

Also making the PSAT a standardized type of examination is the fact that it’s scored the same for all those who take it.

Being the PSAT/NMSQT, the PSAT is also a standardized eligibility exam for the National Merit Scholarship.

When Do You Take the PSAT Test?

Most high school students take the PSAT in the 11th grade. Other than giving them practice for the SAT, it also enables them to be considered for the National Merit Scholarship Program.

However, the PSAT can also be taken during the freshman and sophomore years of high school, but it won’t serve as a qualifying exam for the National Merit Scholarship.

There is no use for any high schooler to take the PSAT in the 12th grade.

How to Guess on the PSAT

The right way to guess on the PSAT is to eliminate at least 1 incorrect answer among the answer choices, which gives the test-taker 1 in 3 chances of making the right guess. On the other hand, eliminating 2 incorrect answers among the answer choices makes it possible for the student taking the PSAT to get the right answer on a 50/50 basis.

Because there is no wrong-answer penalty on the PSAT, it’s generally a good idea for high schoolers who don’t know the answer to make a guess instead of leaving a question unanswered.

How Long is the PSAT?

It takes 2 hours and 45 minutes (with breaks) to complete taking the PSAT. Test-takers are given 70 minutes to complete the Math section, which has a total of 48 questions — 31 questions for the calculator-optional section and 17 questions for the no-calculator section.

Meanwhile, students have up to 95 minutes to complete the EBRW section, which has a total of 91 questions.

Here’s a table showing the breakdown of the PSAT’s testing time:

How Does PSAT Scoring Work?

Each section of the PSAT is scored on a scale of as low as 160 to as high as 760. The scores test-takers get in both sections of the standardized test are added, resulting in their PSAT composite score. So, in other words, the overall PSAT score can range anywhere from 320 to 1520, which may help predict the SAT composite scores of a test-taker.

There is no such thing as a failing score on the PSAT.

What is a Good PSAT Score?

Generally speaking, a good PSAT score is a composite score of 1070 or higher, which puts the high school student in the top 25% of all test-takers. An excellent score, which is between 1210 and 1520, puts the teen in the top 10% of all test-takers. For eligibility for the National Merit Scholarship Program, a student must be in the top 1% of all test-takers.

Other than increasing your chances of getting an SAT composite score that can help you get into your top-choice college, getting a high PSAT score can also make it possible for you to win the National Merit Scholarship.

Facts About the PSAT

Let’s talk about some important matters you need to know about the PSAT, including its beginnings, how many high school students take it every year and whether or not it comes with an optional Essay section.

History of the PSAT

The PSAT, like the SAT, was created by the College Board. It was in 1959 when the PSAT was administered for the very first time.

In 1971, the National Merit Scholarship Program, which is a US academic scholarship competition for recognition and university scholarships and is not related to the College Board, adopted the PSAT as its qualifying examination.

More than 30 years after the SAT came into being, the PSAT was administered to help high school students prepare for the SAT. In the past, some intellectual clubs used PSAT scores in admitting new members.

Who Created the PSAT?

It was the College Board that designed the PSAT, whose goal was to serve as a preliminary exam for the SAT. The non-profit organization decided to come up with the standardized test to provide high school students with the opportunity to prepare for the SAT and thus allow them to increase their chances of getting admitted to college.

Eventually, as mentioned earlier, it was used as a qualifying test for the National Merit Scholarship.

What is the College Board?

The College Board is an organization that designs and administers standardized tests as well as develops curricula for use by K-12 and institutions of higher education for the promotion of college readiness. The non-profit was established in 1900 by representatives of a total of 13 academic institutions at the University of Columbia.

Although it’s not an association of colleges, many postsecondary institutions are members of the College Board. As of this writing, there are more than 6,000 schools that are approved members.

How Many People Take the PSAT?

Around 3.5 million high school students take the PSAT. They consist of sophomore and junior high schoolers across the US. The College Board itself says that in the academic year 2021 to 2022, around 3.6 million students took the PSAT.

Meanwhile, over 1.5 million entrants for The National Merit Scholarship Program who meet other requirements take the PSAT.

More high schoolers take the SAT than the ACT. It’s therefore safe to assume that more students also take the PSAT than the PreACT, which is the counterpart of the PSAT.

What is the PSAT Designed to Predict?

The PSAT is designed to predict the SAT scores of high school students and, ultimately, their college readiness given that the SAT is primarily designed for such a purpose.

By taking the PSAT, test-takers know their strong points and, more importantly, their weak spots so that they can take the necessary steps to prepare for the SAT and get good scores.

Want to have an idea of how you may score on the SAT based on your PSAT scores? Online, you can easily access PSAT to SAT conversion tools and charts, most of which are free of charge.

Does the PSAT Have an Essay?

There is no Essay section of the PSAT. The standardized test has 2 main sections, the EBRW section and Math section, and nothing else. In the past, the SAT used to have an optional Essay section but the College Board decided to stop offering it altogether.

On the other hand, the PSAT never had an optional Essay section from the get-go.

Preparing for the Essay section on the SAT by means of an Essay section on the PSAT is completely pointless given that the said section of the SAT became optional in 2016 and unavailable in 2021.

Does the PSAT Provide Calculators?

The PSAT does not provide test-takers calculators. High school students who are sitting for the PSAT must bring their own approved calculators with them to their respective high schools, where the PSATs are administered. Similarly, test-takers are not allowed to share calculators and use them on the Math no-calculator portion and EBRW portion.

Here’s a list of all allowed calculator models from the College Board itself.

PSAT is Changing – Paper Based vs. Digital

The PSAT will be administered in digital format, and its paper and pencil format will cease to exist.

Since it was first taken by students preparing for the SAT back in 1959, it underwent 3 major changes in its format and content as well as how it’s scored. The said changes happened in 1997, 2005 and 2015.

In the fall of 2023, the PSAT will once again go through a significant change in that it will be administered in digital format.

The College Board chose the said date so that high school students who will be taking the digital SAT as juniors in the spring of 2024 will have the opportunity to experience what it’s like to take the standardized test in its entirely new format.

The National Merit Scholarship Program will still use the digital PSAT as its qualifying exam.

When Does the PSAT Go Digital?

As mentioned earlier, the PSAT will go digital in the fall of 2023. From that time onward, the paper and pencil format of the PSAT will no longer be made available by the College Board.

How to Study for the PSAT

According to the PSAT website itself, studying for the standardized test requires making a study plan, creating a realistic goal, taking practice tests and targeting areas that require improvement.

It’s a good thing that free PSAT test preps are available from the College Board and various sources, too.

Undergoing practice tests when preparing for the PSAT is an important step high school teeners should take. Not only will it allow them to become familiar with the PSAT exam experience but also enable them to determine areas that require more attention. This way, they can quit wasting time reviewing things they already know.

It’s recommended to start gearing up for the PSAT about 3 months before the test date. However, it’s a smart move to start preparing for it, which is administered every October of the year, at the start of the school year.

PSAT Practice Test

In this part of the post, I will give you a total of 10 sample PSAT questions — 5 of them are from the Writing & Language portion of the EWRB section, while the other 5 are from the Math section.

Let’s start with a short reading passage:

Vanishing Honeybees: A Threat to Global Agriculture

Honeybees play an important role in the agriculture industry by pollinating crops. An October 2006 study found that as much as one-third of global agriculture depends on animal pollination, including honeybee (12) pollination — to increase crop output. The importance of bees (13) highlights the potentially disastrous affects of an emerging, unexplained crisis: entire colonies of honeybees are dying off without warning.

(14) They know it as colony collapse disorder (CCD), this phenomenon will have a detrimental impact on global agriculture if its causes and solutions are not determined. Since the emergence of CCD around 2006, bee mortality rates have (15) exceeded 25 percent of the population each winter. There was one sign of hope: during the 2010–2012 winter seasons, bee mortality rates decreased slightly, and beekeepers speculated that the colonies would recover. Yet in the winter of 2012–2013, the (16) portion of the bee population lost fell nearly 10 percent in the United States, with a loss of 31 percent of the colonies that pollinate crops.

Q 4. Which choice offers the most accurate interpretation of the data in the chart?

Q 5. Which choice offers an accurate interpretation of the data in the chart?

Answer key:

The following, meanwhile, are 5 sample test questions for the PSAT’s Math portion:

1. A soda company is filling bottles of soda from a tank that contains 500 gallons of soda. At most, how many 20-ounce bottles can be filled from the tank? (1 gallon = 128 ounces)

2. A car traveled at an average speed of 80 miles per hour for 3 hours and consumed fuel at a rate of 34 miles per gallon. Approximately how many gallons of fuel did the car use for the entire 3-hour trip?

3. A high school basketball team won exactly 65 percent of the games it played during last season. Which of the following could be the total number of games the team played last season?

4. Janice puts a fence around her rectangular garden. The garden has a length that is 9 feet less than 3 times its width. What is the perimeter of Janice’s fence if the area of her garden is 5,670 square feet?

5. Tyra subscribes to an online gaming service that charges a monthly fee of $5.00 and $0.25 per hour for time spent playing premium games. Which of the following functions gives Tyra’s cost, in dollars, for a month in which she spends x hours playing premium games?

The sample questions above are from the following site: satsuite.collegeboard.org

Should I Take the PSAT?

In some instances, high schoolers have no choice but to take the PSAT, which costs $18, because the schools they are attending require it — most of the time, though, high schools take care of the registration cost.

Otherwise, it’s completely up to the students to decide whether or not to sit for the PSAT.

Taking the PSAT, however, comes with benefits. For instance, since it’s designed as a preliminary exam for the SAT, teens who undergo it can prepare much better for the SAT, thus allowing them to get good scores and increase their college admissions chances. High PSAT scores also allow high schoolers to qualify for the National Merit Scholarship Program.

Read Next: What is SAT?

Independent Education Consultant, Editor-in-chief. I have a graduate degree in Electrical Engineering and training in College Counseling. Member of American School Counselor Association (ASCA).

Similar Posts

How to Send SAT/ACT Scores for Free

What is the SAT? Ultimate Guide for Top Students

Does the PSAT Matter for College Admissions?

Can You Cheat on the SAT Without Consequences?

Can You Pass the SAT Without Studying?

Is It Possible to Raise SAT Score by 100 Points in a Week?

Choose Your Test

Sat / act prep online guides and tips, sat essay prompts: the complete list.

SAT Writing , SAT Essay

On every SAT Essay, you'll have to read an argument meant to persuade a broad audience and discuss how well the author argues his or her point. The passage you'll have to read will change from test to test, but you'll always need to analyze the author's argument and write a coherent and organized essay explaining this analysis.

In this article, we've compiled a list of the 14 real SAT essay prompts that the College Board has released (either in The Official SAT Study Guide or separately online) for the new SAT. This is the most comprehensive set of new SAT essay prompts online today.

At the end of this article, we'll also guide you through how to get the most out of these prompts and link to our expert resources on acing the SAT essay. I'll discuss how the SAT essay prompts are valuable not just because they give you a chance to write a practice essay, but because of what they reveal about the essay task itself.

UPDATE: SAT Essay No Longer Offered

(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({});.

In January 2021, the College Board announced that after June 2021, it would no longer offer the Essay portion of the SAT (except at schools who opt in during School Day Testing). It is now no longer possible to take the SAT Essay, unless your school is one of the small number who choose to offer it during SAT School Day Testing.

While most colleges had already made SAT Essay scores optional, this move by the College Board means no colleges now require the SAT Essay. It will also likely lead to additional college application changes such not looking at essay scores at all for the SAT or ACT, as well as potentially requiring additional writing samples for placement.

What does the end of the SAT Essay mean for your college applications? Check out our article on the College Board's SAT Essay decision for everything you need to know.

SAT essay prompts always keep to the same basic format. Not only is the prompt format consistent from test to test, but what you're actually asked to do (discuss how an author builds an argument) also remains the same across different test administrations.

The College Board's predictability with SAT essay helps students focus on preparing for the actual analytical task, rather than having to think up stuff on their feet. Every time, before the passage, you'll see the following:

• evidence, such as facts or examples, to support claims.
• reasoning to develop ideas and to connect claims and evidence.
• stylistic or persuasive elements, such as word choice or appeals to emotion, to add power to the ideas expressed.

And after the passage, you'll see this:

"Write an essay in which you explain how [the author] builds an argument to persuade [her/his] audience that [whatever the author is trying to argue for]. In your essay, analyze how [the author] uses one or more of the features listed in the box above (or features of your own choice) to strengthen the logic and persuasiveness of his argument. Be sure that your analysis focuses on the most relevant features of the passage.

Your essay should not explain whether you agree with [the author]'s claims, but rather explain how [the author] builds an argument to persuade [her/his/their] audience."

Now that you know the format, let's look at the SAT essay prompts list.

14 Official SAT Essay Prompts

The College Board has released a limited number of prompts to help students prep for the essay. We've gathered them for you here, all in one place. We'll be sure to update this article as more prompts are released for practice and/or as more tests are released.

SPOILER ALERT : Since these are the only essay prompts that have been released so far, you may want to be cautious about spoiling them for yourself, particularly if you are planning on taking practice tests under real conditions . This is why I've organized the prompts by the 10 that are in the practice tests (so you can avoid them if need be), the ones that are available online as sample prompts, and the ones that are in the text of the Official SAT Study Guide (Redesigned SAT), all online for free.

Practice Test Prompts

These 10 prompts are taken from the practice tests that the College Board has released.

Practice Test 1 :

"Write an essay in which you explain how Jimmy Carter builds an argument to persuade his audience that the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge should not be developed for industry."

Practice Test 2 :

"Write an essay in which you explain how Martin Luther King Jr. builds an argument to persuade his audience that American involvement in the Vietnam War is unjust."

Practice Test 3 :

"Write an essay in which you explain how Eliana Dockterman builds an argument to persuade her audience that there are benefits to early exposure to technology."

Practice Test 4 :

"Write an essay in which you explain how Paul Bogard builds an argument to persuade his audience that natural darkness should be preserved."

Practice Test 5 :

"Write an essay in which you explain how Eric Klinenberg builds an argument to persuade his audience that Americans need to greatly reduce their reliance on air-conditioning."

Practice Test 6 :

"Write an essay in which you explain how Christopher Hitchens builds an argument to persuade his audience that the original Parthenon sculptures should be returned to Greece."

Practice Test 7 :

"Write an essay in which you explain how Zadie Smith builds an argument to persuade her audience that public libraries are important and should remain open"

Practice Test 8 :

"Write an essay in which you explain how Bobby Braun builds an argument to persuade his audience that the US government must continue to invest in NASA."

Practice Test 9 :

"Write an essay in which you explain how Todd Davidson builds an argument to persuade his audience that the US government must continue to fund national parks."

Practice Test 10 :

"Write an essay in which you explain how Richard Schiffman builds an argument to persuade his audience that Americans need to work fewer hours."

Special note: The prompt for Practice Test 4 also appears on the College Board's site with real sample essays written in response. If you've written a practice essay for practice test 4 and want to see what essays of different score levels look like for that particular prompt, you can go there and look at eight real student essays.

Free Online Practice

This prompt comes from the College Board website .

"Write an essay in which you explain how Dana Gioia builds an argument to persuade his audience that the decline of reading in America will have a negative effect on society."

This prompt comes from Khan Academy , where it is listed as an alternate essay prompt to go along with Practice Test 2:

"Write an essay in which you explain how Leo W. Gerard builds an argument to persuade his audience that American colleges and universities should be affordable for all students."

The Official SAT Study Guide 2020

The Official SAT Study Guide (editions published in 2015 and later available online for free) contains all 10 of the previously mentioned practice tests at the end of the book. In the section about the new SAT essay , however, there are two additional sample essay prompts (accompanied by articles to analyze).

Sample Prompt 1:

"Write an essay in which you explain how Peter S. Goodman builds an argument to persuade his audience that news organizations should increase the amount of professional foreign news coverage provided to people in the United States."

Sample Prompt 2:

"Write an essay in which you explain how Adam B. Summers builds an argument to persuade his audience that plastic shopping bags should not be banned."

Ready to go beyond just reading about the SAT? Then you'll love the free five-day trial for our SAT Complete Prep program . Designed and written by PrepScholar SAT experts , our SAT program customizes to your skill level in over 40 subskills so that you can focus your studying on what will get you the biggest score gains.

Click on the button below to try it out!

How Do You Get the Most Out of These Prompts?

Now that you have all the prompts released by the College Board, it's important to know the best way to use them. Make sure you have a good balance between quality and quantity, and don't burn through all 14 of the real prompts in a row— take the time to learn from your experiences writing the practice essays.

Step By Step Guide on How to Practice Using the Article

#1: Understand how the SAT essay is graded .

#2: Follow along as we write a high-scoring SAT essay, step by step .

#3: Plan a set of features you'll look for in the SAT essay readings and practice writing about them fluidly. This doesn't just mean identifying a technique, like asking a rhetorical question, but explaining why it is persuasive and what effect it has on the reader in the context of a particular topic. We have more information on this step in our article about 6 SAT persuasive devices you can use .

#4: Choose a prompt at random from above, or choose a topic that you think is going to be hard for you to detach from (because you'll want to write about the topic, rather than the argument) set timer to 50 minutes and write the essay. No extra time allowed!

#5: Grade the essay, using the official essay rubric to give yourself a score out of 8 in the reading, analysis, and writing sections.

#6: Repeat steps 4 and 5. Choose the prompts you think will be the hardest for you so that you can so that you're prepared for the worst when the test day comes

#7: If you run out of official prompts to practice with, use the official prompts as models to find examples of other articles you could write about . Start by looking for op-ed articles in online news publications like The New York Times, The Atlantic, LA Times , and so on. For instance, the passage about the plastic bag ban in California (Official SAT Study Guide sample essay prompt 2, above) has a counterpoint here —you could try analyzing and writing about that article as well.

Any additional articles you use for practice on the SAT essay must match the following criteria:

• ideally 650-750 words , although it'll be difficult to find an op-ed piece that's naturally that short. Try to aim for nothing longer than 2000 words, though, or the scope of the article is likely to be wider than anything you'll encounter on the SAT.
• always argumentative/persuasive . The author (or authors) is trying to get readers to agree with a claim or idea being put forward.
• always intended for a wide audience . All the information you need to deconstruct the persuasiveness of the argument is in the passage. This means that articles with a lot of technical jargon that's not explained in the article are not realistic passage to practice with.

What's Next?

We've written a ton of helpful resources on the SAT essay. I f you're just getting started, we recommend beginning with our top SAT essay tips for a quick overview of the essay task and what you need to know.

A little more familiar with the SAT essay but still not quite sure how to write one? Follow along with our step-by-step guide to writing the SAT essay .

Looking to earn a high score? Learn what it takes to get the highest score possible on the SAT essay here .

Plus, if you want a reference linking you to all of our great articles on the SAT essay, be sure to check out our ultimate SAT essay guide .

Want to improve your SAT score by 160 points?

Check out our best-in-class online SAT prep program. We guarantee your money back if you don't improve your SAT score by 160 points or more.

Our program is entirely online, and it customizes your prep program to your strengths and weaknesses. We also have expert instructors who can grade every one of your practice SAT essays, giving feedback on how to improve your score.

Check out our 5-day free trial:

Laura graduated magna cum laude from Wellesley College with a BA in Music and Psychology, and earned a Master's degree in Composition from the Longy School of Music of Bard College. She scored 99 percentile scores on the SAT and GRE and loves advising students on how to excel in high school.

Student and Parent Forum

Our new student and parent forum, at ExpertHub.PrepScholar.com , allow you to interact with your peers and the PrepScholar staff. See how other students and parents are navigating high school, college, and the college admissions process. Ask questions; get answers.

Ask a Question Below

Have any questions about this article or other topics? Ask below and we'll reply!

Improve With Our Famous Guides

• For All Students

The 5 Strategies You Must Be Using to Improve 160+ SAT Points

How to Get a Perfect 1600, by a Perfect Scorer

Series: How to Get 800 on Each SAT Section:

Score 800 on SAT Math

Score 800 on SAT Reading

Score 800 on SAT Writing

Series: How to Get to 600 on Each SAT Section:

Score 600 on SAT Math

Score 600 on SAT Reading

Score 600 on SAT Writing

Free Complete Official SAT Practice Tests

What SAT Target Score Should You Be Aiming For?

15 Strategies to Improve Your SAT Essay

The 5 Strategies You Must Be Using to Improve 4+ ACT Points

How to Get a Perfect 36 ACT, by a Perfect Scorer

Series: How to Get 36 on Each ACT Section:

36 on ACT English

36 on ACT Math

36 on ACT Reading

36 on ACT Science

Series: How to Get to 24 on Each ACT Section:

24 on ACT English

24 on ACT Math

24 on ACT Reading

24 on ACT Science

What ACT target score should you be aiming for?

ACT Vocabulary You Must Know

ACT Writing: 15 Tips to Raise Your Essay Score

How to Get Into Harvard and the Ivy League

How to Get a Perfect 4.0 GPA

How to Write an Amazing College Essay

What Exactly Are Colleges Looking For?

Is the ACT easier than the SAT? A Comprehensive Guide

Should you retake your SAT or ACT?

When should you take the SAT or ACT?

Stay Informed

Get the latest articles and test prep tips!

Looking for Graduate School Test Prep?

Check out our top-rated graduate blogs here:

GRE Online Prep Blog

GMAT Online Prep Blog

TOEFL Online Prep Blog

Holly R. "I am absolutely overjoyed and cannot thank you enough for helping me!”