Is my freshman year PSAT score a good indicator of future success?

Hi guys, I just got my PSAT scores back as a freshman. I know it’s early, but should I be using this score as a benchmark for my junior year expectations? How much do PSAT scores typically improve?

Hi there! Absolutely, your freshman year PSAT score is a great starting point to gauge where you are now and to set goals for the future. It's important to remember that the PSAT is designed not only as a practice test for the SAT but also to identify areas where you may need to improve. Many students see significant improvement in their scores as they move through high school, especially if they take time to prepare for the test by studying and understanding the content areas where they need to focus their efforts.

For example, a student I advised started with a PSAT score of 1020 as a freshman and worked their way up to a 1280 by junior year through consistent study and review of material. It's also helpful to know that as you take more advanced classes, some of the content on the PSAT will become more familiar, which can also help improve your score. Keep challenging yourself in your coursework, and consider utilizing practice tests and study materials to increase your familiarity with the test format and question types. Stay positive and use this time to build a strong foundation for your SAT preparation!