Is the PSAT really the best indicator of SAT scores?
January 30, 2010
The Preliminary SAT (“PSAT”), was created to serve as a practice test for the SAT Reasoning Test. Many argue that performance on the PSAT is, generally, a good indicator of how students will achieve on the SAT. As indicators go, it is certainly satisfactory. However, in our experience, college applicants, and their parents, are looking for something more than merely “satisfactory.” They seek a solid indication of what the student is likely to achieve on the actual SAT exam. Be forewarned: adding a “0” to the PSAT scores and assuming that your SAT scores automatically will be at those levels, without study or preparation, is a dangerous assumption.
The reason that many students score lower on their SATs than the PSATs is due to the major differences that exist between the two exams. The PSAT does not include an essay question or algebra II topics. In addition, the PSAT is significantly shorter at 2 hours and 10 minutes, as opposed to 3 hours and 45 minutes for the SAT. Moreover, the time frame between when a student takes the PSAT versus the SAT will often result in the student having forgotten earlier subject areas covered, particularly relating to math, if the student has not refreshed old materials.
Consequently, it has been our experience that only a full mock SAT exam (either an old SAT or a full length exam crafted to mirror it) will best gauge how a student will perform on their SAT. Of course, it is advisable not to wait until after taking an SAT before determining whether or not to commence studying for a subsequent exam. In this keenly competitive environment, we encourage our students to be proactive, as opposed to reactive. Sit down for a mock exam, under real testing conditions (i.e., time it, put down the pencil, follow appropriate test-taking strategies, etc.), and get the most value for your time and effort. If, under these conditions, you are satisfied with your scores, you are ready to take the actual SAT. However, if your scores are lower than expected gauging from your PSAT results, take the time to study and prepare before sitting for an actual SAT.
As always, we welcome your feedback and ideas. Please submit a comment below, send us an email or give us a call at 973-243-1212.
