I'm aiming for a National Merit Scholarship and I would love any tips on how to ace the PSAT. What study strategies worked best for you or someone you know?
It's great that you're targeting the National Merit Scholarship! One key strategy is to become very familiar with the format and content of the PSAT. A practical approach is to start by taking a full-length official practice PSAT under timed conditions. This will help you identify your strengths and areas for improvement.
After you know your baseline, create a study schedule that allows for consistent practice. For example, you might set aside an hour each day for PSAT prep, alternating between math, critical reading, and writing. It's also beneficial to review your wrong answers thoroughly to understand your mistakes.
In terms of resources, the College Board offers official PSAT practice tests and Khan Academy has free, personalized PSAT prep courses. Additionally, consider getting a good prep book that offers strategies and additional practice tests.
Lastly, don't underestimate the power of a well-rounded approach to test prep, including healthy eating, sleeping well, and managing stress. These factors can have a significant impact on your test day performance. Best of luck in your preparation; remember that persistence and focused practice can go a long way!
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