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The Basics of the SATs and the PSATs

Gianni Perez



After freshman year, the words “PSATs” and “SATs” are mentioned often. Hearing about these exams tends to cause students nervousness and anxiety. Getting to know the basics of the tests can help quell some anxiety and prepare students for the exams.


The PSAT is the lesser of the two evils. The PSAT stands for the “Preliminary SAT.” It is an SAT practice test. Taking the PSAT gives students an idea of what the SATs will be like. The PSAT has a total test time of two hours and forty-five minutes. The PSAT has the same sections as the SAT: reading, writing, and math with and without a calculator. The PSAT does not have an essay. It is scored in the range of 320 to 1520. Unlike the SAT, PSATs offer students an opportunity to get a National Merit Scholarship. The National Merit Scholarship offers $2,500 towards a student’s college tuition. To learn more about the National Merit program, visit the following link: National Merit® Scholarship Program. The PSAT is administered at high schools once every year in October and can be taken by both sophomores and juniors. It is important because it gives you a chance to get acquainted with the SAT, but it counts towards nothing college-wise. However, it does give you a shot at a scholarship!

The SATs are the big picture. The SAT stands for the “Standard Assessment Test.” The SAT is a college entrance exam; the test gauges a student’s readiness for college. SAT scores are considered heavily in the college admissions process. The SAT has a total test time of three hours. With the essay, it is three hours and fifty minutes. The exam has four sections: reading, writing, and math with and without a calculator which are scored in the range of 400 to 1600. The higher an SAT score is, the better your chance of getting into a selective college. The minimum SAT score for a college ranges, with highly selective colleges requiring a score over 1400. The test can be taken junior or senior year of high school. It is administered seven times a year in March, May, June, August, October, November, and December. SATs are taken at test centers as well as at high schools. SAT’s are very important. Unlike the PSATs, they matter college-wise. They are used in the college admissions process and help to determine what college you’ll go to. Sign up for the SATs here: SAT Registration.

Both tests are important in different ways. They have slight differences, but when taking the tests, you should treat them the same. Though you cannot study in the traditional way for this reasoning test, you can still prepare. There are many prep books to choose from, all containing basic styles of text and questions that will be on the tests. There are also courses you can take where certified instructors can help you understand the exam better. On the other hand, you can also study on your own by reviewing topics on the tests and working out any problem areas. If you create an account on CollegBoard.com, you can even have a question sent each day to your email to practice!

Before both tests, be sure to get a good amount of sleep. Try not to review material or study beforehand. Eat a full breakfast, and avoid caffeine. Have a positive mindset and focus only on doing your best. Good luck to anyone with upcoming exams!


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