PSAT Curve Prediction for 2023

Hi everyone, I'm taking the PSAT in the fall and I've been hearing a lot about curves. How does the curve usually work, and are there any predictions for the 2023 PSAT curve? I'm trying to plan my studying goals accordingly.

Hey there! Good to hear that you're preparing for the PSAT. The PSAT, like the SAT, uses a process called equating to account for minor differences in test difficulty across different administrations. This means that the "curve" essentially adjusts your raw score (the number of questions you answered correctly) to a scaled score, so that scores from different test dates are comparable in terms of performance. However, it's important to realize that each test administration has its own curve based on the difficulty of that specific test.

Predicting the curve for a specific PSAT administration is challenging, as it can fluctuate due to many factors, including the difficulty of the test and the performance of the test-takers. It's best to focus on consistent practice and reinforcing your understanding of the concepts tested rather than trying to guess the curve.

Remember, the PSAT is a solid opportunity to practice for the SAT, and scoring well on it might qualify you for National Merit Scholarships. Therefore, when creating your study plan, aim to review the core material covered on the PSAT, such as evidence-based reading, writing and language, and math, and take official practice tests to gauge your improvement.

Ultimately, your best approach is to prepare thoroughly, learn from your mistakes on practice tests, and try to remain flexible regarding the uncertainty involved with the curve. Focus on mastering the content and skills that the PSAT tests, and the curve will take care of itself. Good luck with your studies!