<p>I just received scores from my PSAT which I took in early May (sophomore year), and don't really know how to look at them. How do these scores translate to a rough SAT estimate. </p>
<p>More importantly, I am taking the PSAT again next fall, and then the SAT I assume next spring--what type of improvement can I expect/should I aim for for these tests and where would these current scores place me?</p>
<p>Note: I took this first test completely unprepared, not knowing what to expect. It was after half a day of school community service. I am planning to prepare over the summer and through next winter for my SATs. </p>
<p>Verbal -- 77
Math -- 68
Writing -- 71</p>
<p>Thanks a lot! Any help/tips are greatly appreciated!</p>
<p>How did you get to take the PSAT in early May? Collegeboard.com says the test is only available in October: “The PSAT/NMSQT is only offered on two days in October.”</p>
<p>It was a hand-graded “practice PSAT,” sorry. It was administered by the school although it was some sort of official test, and then I guess the SAT has some scale for grading it…</p>
<p>Multiply your scores by 10 for each section–that will give you an estimate of SAT scores. Some high scoring kids report scores that go down from one year to the next with the PSAT.</p>
<p>Bump. Would greatly appreciate any more info. Thanks!</p>
<p>What more do you want to know? A rough SAT estimate would be 10 times your PSAT score. As far as improvement, there can be a lot of variability between the many practice tests out there and the actual PSAT. From PSAT to SAT, though, the differences are usually small (though the writing score can have a good amount of variability since on the SAT you actually do , uh, writing). Get a copy of a study guide with practice tests, and you’ll have all the preparation you need.</p>
<p>As for qualifying scores in the competition, each state has a different score which may change (though only slightly) each year. You can find threads here on CC with the last year’s competition info.</p>
<p>You scored a 216 on your practice PSAT. This is good. Depending on what state you’re from, that might qualify you as a National Merit semi-finalist…at the least you would be commended. With some structured preparation and a few rounds of practice tests, you should do well on your PSAT. You did well on your verbal, but could bring your math up just be working some practice problems. The others are correct in stating that you would multiply your score by 10 to see what your SAT score would translate to. The SAT is a longer test, though, and includes an essay in the writing section (the PSAT does not require an essay) which can potentially bring one’s score down. You should do well, though; good luck!</p>