PSAT Queries

Test Preparation
1

<p>I just took the PSAT practice test from the packet they gave us when we registered and scored the following: </p>

<p>Math: -1; 76
Writing:-2; 72
Critical Reading: -1;80 </p>

<p>I don't understand. How is a -1 a 40 point loss in Math? And -2 a 72 on writing?</p>

<p>How is this an accurate representation of the SAT? The essay section on writing is about 30% of the Writing, and essays happen to be my strong point. Wouldn't it have a big impact on the score? Also, if there is one type of math question or one grammar rule that you do not understand, and happen to miss that one on the PSAT --- wouldn't that translate to missing 1 or 2 on the SAT, depending on how many times they ask that type of question -- instead of setting up proportions with the amount you miss on the PSAT and your expected misses on the SAT? Missing 1 or 2 on the SAT Math, or any of the categories for that matter, would result well over a 750, no? </p>

<p>I don't know. I'm just a tad annoyed that -2 is a 72. Is this scoring typical?</p>

2

<p>That math curve is very typical for the PSAT: one wrong is usually 76, occasionally 75 or 77. This is harsher than the SAT, however, there are more questions on the SAT (16 more) and the math includes slightly more advanced material.</p>

<p>Usually, -2 on writing gets you a 75 or 76. However, last year's test (2007) had -2 = 72 due to a max raw score of 38 (usually it is 39).</p>

3

<p>It's the curve...=D
More kids get perfect on math than writing, so....
I think?</p>

4

<p>Yeah the PSAT isn't meant to be fair... That's why so many people get higher SAT scores than PSAT scores.</p>

<p>(I hope this holds true for me on saturday :()</p>