What does a PSAT score of 1190 mean?

Just got my PSAT results back today and I got a 1190. I'm not really sure how I should feel about this. Is that considered a good score? What percentile would it likely put me in? Any help would be appreciated.

A PSAT score of 1190 is a decent score, as the PSAT is scored on a scale of 320 to 1520, so your score falls a little above the midpoint of that range. To better understand how this score compares to other test-takers, we can look at percentiles.

Percentiles represent the relative position of your score compared to other students who took the test. For example, if you are in the 60th percentile, it means that you scored higher than 60% of other test-takers. A PSAT score of 1190 typically places you somewhere in the ballpark of the 70th percentile, meaning you scored higher than about 70% of other test-takers.

While an 1190 is a decent score, keep in mind that the PSAT serves primarily as a diagnostic tool to help you identify areas to focus on as you prepare for the actual SAT. Review your score report to identify your strengths and weaknesses and build a study plan based on that information. Aim to improve your weak areas through targeted practice, and consider taking SAT prep courses or working with a tutor if you need more guidance. These techniques will ensure you maximize your performance on the actual SAT, as you don't want to just assume you'll automatically land in the 70th percentile there too.

Finally, remember that colleges will not use your PSAT score for admissions decisions, so concentrate your efforts on performing well on the SAT or ACT, which are what will have an impact on your application. Good luck with your test preparation!