I just received my PSAT results and it looks like I may have a shot at National Merit– woohoo! Does anyone have some advice to push my score up to qualifying range in senior year? Would love some tips.
Congratulations on your solid PSAT performance! You're definitely on the right track. While securing National Merit recognition is an impressive feat, it does require some strategizing and preparation. Here are some pointers:
1. Understand the Scoring: Understanding how the test is scored is crucial. Remember, your selection index, which determines if you qualify for National Merit, is calculated differently than your total PSAT score. Each section (Math, Reading, and Writing/Language) is it's own individual score, totalled together.
2. Practice: Use resources like the College Board’s own materials, Khan Academy, and the Bluebook™ app (released in spring 2024) to take full-length practice tests. The Bluebook™ app will allow you to get familiar with the layout of the digital PSAT/NMSQT, which is especially important because the test went digital in 2024.
3. Review Mistakes: After you have completed a practice test, take the time to understand your errors. Try to understand why you made the mistake, what you were supposed to do, and how to prevent it in the future.
4. Ensure Accuracy: The PSAT does not have any penalty for wrong answers, but answering correctly first is a virtue. Work on your accuracy first, then start trying to improve your speed.
5. Focus on Weak Areas: Look for trends in your mistakes. Are you consistently making errors in a particular area? Focus on that area and put in the time to improve.
6. Develop a Study Schedule: Start preparing as soon as possible, with regular review periods. A six-month timeline where the frequency of your study increases as you approach the exam date is a good plan.
7. Stay Healthy: This might seem unrelated, but keeping your body and mind healthy with good nutrition, regular exercise, and plenty of sleep can improve your cognitive performance and stress management.
Remember that while National Merit is impressive, it's one of many factors considered in college admissions. Best of luck for your approaching exams!
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