PSAT vs. SAT

Man2112

Man2112

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hey all,
I just took the PSAT the other day, and i was wondering whether the test gave an actual representation on what the REAL SAT is like? Or is it far from it?

Also, can the score from the PSAT be compared to SAT scores?
 
Man:

The scores that are given gives you a projected range that you should score on the SAT. i.e. - 62 on PSAT is equal to 580 - 680 on SAT. That is an actual example given from a report. However, that doesn't guarantee that you'll make within that range.

Personally, my PSAT scores were higher than my SAT scores, but the test itself - if I remember correctly, since it's been the better of two years since I've taken it - should be very similar.

I've recently retaken the SAT, but I do recommend that you start now to take the SAT's if you haven't already. If you want some suggestions, I can recommend them. The farther ahead you prepare, the better you'll do.
 
yeah, what year did you start taking the SATs? I mean, i'm a sophomore, should i start taking it now?
 
Man2112 said:
...i'm a sophomore, should i start taking it now?
Click to expand...

sure...I'm a sophomore and am taking the SAT and ACT next year (2010, not next school year).

Question: The PSAT was pretty easy to me (mostly). Can I expect the SAT to be as easy? How about the ACT?
 
It depends on what classes you are taking? If you are only in geometry, NO! You should start taking them Jan of your Jr yr, so you have as much Math as possible under your belt.
 
I'm currently a Junior and I have taken the PSATs last year and this year.
I believe I possibly got a 180+ on the PSAT. Here is my question: I have already signed up for the Nov SATs, but should I move back this date? It's possible that I will take the Nov SAT and Dec SAT before I get my PSAT results. 1800 is not my goal for I wish to get at least 2000-2100+ there are still a few math problems I don't understand and my essay could work on improving.

FYI: I want to apply for the SA's summer sessions.
 
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AVT - You can go ahead and take your SAT's now. That will leave time for re-takes.
If you take them now then you will have time for a Jan re-take for your summer seminar scores and then again later in the spring. Honestly, if you can nail them the spring of your junior year then you are ahead of the game.
Otherwise - you still have time to re-take your senior year.

2012Cadet - The SAT is much longer than the PSAT. Naturally, it is also more difficult. Many kids find their PSAT scores mirror their SAT's - some find as they gain experience their SAT's were much better than their PSAT's.


I think the latest anyone should take the SAT's for the first time is winter of the Junior year. Some kids even take them as sophomore's and find that is helpful in planning.
 
I found the ACT to be easier than the SAT. Take them both a few times.
 
The format is different, but the questions are relatively similar. The SAT questions tend to be set up not so much to challenge your abilities to recall knowledge (for example it gives you all the math formulas you need) but to test your ability to read directions properly, discern necessary information, and perform under pressure. In recap, the most important thing you can do when taking the SAT is underline exactly what they are asking for in every question (such as what is x+2, instead of what is the value of x).
 
Pima said:
It depends on what classes you are taking? If you are only in geometry, NO! You should start taking them Jan of your Jr yr, so you have as much Math as possible under your belt.
Click to expand...

What if I'm already taking Precal...?
 
Man2112 said:
hey all,
I just took the PSAT the other day, and i was wondering whether the test gave an actual representation on what the REAL SAT is like? Or is it far from it?

Also, can the score from the PSAT be compared to SAT scores?
Click to expand...

Take your total PSAT score and add a zero and you should have a pretty good idea of your SAT score. This little formula held true for both my kids.

Another piece of advice...take the earliest SAT you can. Get the results, and prep where needed. Prep may be costly, and time consuming, but the rewards are well worth it.

Good luck! :thumb:
 
If you're taking PreCalculus, then you should be in pretty good shape for the SAT - at least I thought I was. I do recommend getting a SAT prep book or enroll in a course, because at least that way, you're "guarenteed" to know what kind of questions you'll be working with on the SAT.
 
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