<p>So I am a Junior in high school and the PSAT is in a few days (3). I want to become commended or even score above 200 is good enough for me. I took the practice test that the school administered (the official 2008 one) and my results are as follows: 67 math, 64 writing, and 56 reading. I have been able to score 700+ on math and writing on the SAT practice tests that I have taken, but I cannot seem to do well in reading no matter what I do. I can definitely say that it is the vocabulary that hinders my high scores, but what else can I do to improve the rest of my scores as well? This has become very stressful and frustrating as I now attend a new school because of a merge with another school and I have become overwhelmed with work from my AP classes (calculus and language&composition). I have not had the time to study for anything else other than the PSAT and, seeing as my grades are steadily going down (90+ nevertheless) not scoring high on the PSAT is VERY deterring. I want to ensure a high score so I could at least get commended but 187 just isn't enough. I am also planning to go to University of Pennsylvania to fulfill my lifelong dream of becoming a neurosurgeon. Any help would be greatly appreciated. If I have posted in the wrong forum, please tell me how to fix it, as I do not wish to be a burden.</p>
<p>With only this much time left, the best thing you can really do is get a lot of rest/sleep in the few nights leading up to the test. You could also look at/take some practice SATs to get a feel for the types of questions to expect, and the format of the test. Also, it’d be a good idea to review the instructions for each section (these should be on the practice PSAT you took) so you’re not worrying about it the day of the test.</p>
<p>Vocabulary is basically impossible to improve in only a couple of days. Just remember that it’s only the PSAT, so it’s not actually used for college admission per se (i.e. while it will help you to do well on the test, it’s not actually a major factor. Getting “commended” or even national merit scholar semi-finalist/finalist status is just like any other academic award on your resume.</p>
<p>Just remember to get a good night sleep and maybe look over some practice SATs from the “Blue Book” (if you have it) if you’re really worried or just have the time to do some extra review. </p>
<p>Yeah, just relax. PSAT can’t hurt you. SAT is the real deal. However, make sure you don’t put off studying for the real SAT! For most, it does take some time to get comfortable with the format and with how to approach each problem. Wish you the best of luck! :D</p>
It won’t be the end of the world!</p>