<p>SAT test scores NORM REFERENCED scores which means that the scores reflect the test taker’s standing among the peers, NOT absolute level of mastery of subject matter. The fact that some kids performed better in SAT than PSAT does not necessarily mean that kids got smarter and better: it could also mean, that they are being compared with lower performing kids who are taking tests. This means, SAT test population is LESS self selective, and in general, lower performing population.</p>
<p>This means, if a kid’s SAT is much higher than PSAT scores, the PSAT test taking group’s general performance and qualification is HIGHER, and SAT population is less “loaded” with higher performing kids. Put it simply, you get higher % ranking with the same performance for SAT because you are compared with LOWER performing general population of SAT, not the other way around. </p>
<p>What I thought before I saw my son’s scores was, PSAT scores are computed based on the kids performance WITHIN the population of PSAT kids. In this case, 98% standing on PSAT should have the same score with SAT (740-750) which is associated with the 98% ranking among the SAT kids. However, given the discrepancy, I have to assume the testing agency is not giving PSAT scores the same way as they do for SAT (based on % ranking within the sample). A plausible explanation is, rather than using the PSAT population % ranking as a way to calculate the score, they are using some sort of a “performance” based scoring consideration that put these kids in a general population of HS seniors (those who are taking the test for real) and juniors (PSAT test takes). If this is the case, we can explain the lower PSAT score: you are put in a population of kids who have one additional year of schooling than you, so your PSAT score will be lower because you are being compared with “higher performing” kids, even though your ranking among YOUR peers (juniors) is higher.</p>
<p>Anyway, all this is a moot point: I will take other posters advice and play safe and conservative in using the PSAT scores. It’s also a great diagnostic tool: without this, we would not have finally decided to arrange math tutoring for him.</p>