Now that the school year is in full swing, you are likely having conversations around college preparation and standardized tests. Because most colleges and universities accept both exams, one question we always get here at MathSP is whether one should take the ACT or the SAT. While we have no particular preference, it is important for you to understand both tests so that you know what you’re up against. With a comprehensive understanding of the ACT and the redesigned SAT, you may decide to take one or the other, or give both a try!

Test Comparison at a Glance

The redesigned SAT will be available beginning in March 2016. Here’s what’s new on the SAT:

• An all-new essay component that is optional to students
• No penalty for guessing answers
• Vocabulary is tested in context and focuses on important widely used words and phrases found in texts in many different subjects. No longer are you required to memorize words from flashcards that you will never use again!

Because of these changes, the ACT and SAT exams are more aligned now than they ever were before. Let’s explore some of the similarities and differences between the ACT and the redesigned SAT in order to help you make an informed decision about which test is the better fit for you.

1. The ACT and redesigned SAT include tables, charts, and graphs.

One of the key differences between the ACT and the redesigned SAT is that the ACT includes a Science section. On this section, you are not required to memorize specific definitions and facts from your chemistry, biology, physics, and Earth/space classes. Instead, you only need a general knowledge to answer some of the questions. Most questions will emphasize scientific reasoning skills over recall of scientific content. A major component of this section is your ability to answer questions based on information presented in tables, charts, graphs, and other visual representations.

The redesigned SAT will also require you to use tables, charts, and graphs to answer some questions. Rather than concentrated in a specific section like on the ACT Science test, data represented in tables, charts, and graphs on the redesigned SAT will be embedded in questions across all sections of the test.

2. The ACT and redesigned SAT Math sections test similar concepts but are formatted differently.

While both the ACT and redesigned SAT Math sections will test your knowledge of arithmetic, algebra I and II, geometry, and trigonometry concepts, the formats of the ACT and redesigned SAT Math sections are different. On the ACT Math section, you will be given 60 minutes to answer 60 multiple-choice questions (five answer choices) with no breaks in between. This averages 60 seconds per question.

On the contrary, the redesigned SAT is divided into two separate math sections: Math Test – Calculator and Math Test – No Calculator. On the calculator section, you will be given 55 minutes to answer 38 questions; on the no calculator section, you will be given 25 minutes to answer 20 questions. This allows more time per question as compared to the ACT, averaging 87 seconds per question for the calculator section and 75 seconds per question for the no calculator section. Also note that the redesigned SAT includes both multiple-choice questions (four answer choices) as well as grid-in questions.

3. The ACT Writing and redesigned SAT Essay sections are both optional but have completely different tasks.

The ACT Writing test has always been optional to students. The redesigned SAT Essay section is also optional to students. Keep in mind that though the essay sections on both tests are optional, many colleges and universities still require this section for admission, so be sure to check the requirements for your schools of interest before opting out.

The ACT Writing section will describe an issue and provide three different perspectives on the issue. Your task is to evaluate and analyze the perspectives, to state and develop your own perspective, and to explain the relationship between your perspective and those given.

The SAT Essay will present a passage. Your task is to explain how the author builds an argument to persuade an audience and support your explanation with evidence from the passage. Your essay should not explain whether you agree with the claims, but rather explain how the author builds an argument to persuade the audience.

4. The ACT and redesigned SAT scoring methods are more aligned with no penalty for guessing on either test.

Both the ACT and redesigned SAT do not penalize for incorrect responses. You will earn points for the questions you answer correctly and will not lose points for questions you answer incorrectly. Make sure you give your best answer to every question — there’s no advantage to leaving them blank! Each of the questions on the ACT has 5 answer choices; that’s a 20% chance of guessing correctly. Each of the questions on the redesigned SAT has 4 answer choices; that a 25% chance of guessing correctly.

The ACT composite (total) score ranges from 1-36. Each of the four sections are also scored from 1-36. The Math, Reading, and English sections include subscores made up of the content covered within each section of the test which range from 1-18.

The redesigned SAT composite score ranges from 400-1600. Each of the two sections, Evidence-based Reading & Writing and Math, are scored from 200-800. In addition to the composite and section scores, you will also receive test scores, cross-test scores and subscores. The breakdown of each type of score is outlined here and explains in detail what each score represents.

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MathSP’s expert Test Prep Coaches can help you to determine which test is better for you and prepare you to score higher so that you are more desirable and competitive in your college admissions applications.

Learn more about our ACT Bridge program and SAT Bridge program and how each provides effective concept-driven approaches and strategies to all sections of the the exams, providing you the tools and confidence you need to achieve your highest score.

Contact MathSP today to get started on your path to test success!

All summer long, MathSP has been reminding students, parents and teachers about the newly redesigned version of the Preliminary Scholastic Aptitude Test (PSAT) that will be administered starting in October 2015. We discussed the various changes in the test regarding content, scoring and test format and what it meant for your test prep. Last month, we did a deep dive into the Math Section where we discussed questions to be expected on the Math Test, what students need to know and how to best prepare to master this section of the PSAT. This month, it’s all about the Reading Section of the test. Part of the Evidence-Based Reading and Writing section, this portion of the test focuses on the way you take in, think about and use information – No memorizing of facts or definitions to study. Let’s explore more of the PSAT Reading Section.

Format

The redesigned PSAT includes 47 multiple-choice Reading questions that are based on passages students must read in order to correctly answer each question. The multiple-choice questions will have four possible answers for students to choose from. In some instances, passages are paired with other passages and informational graphics such as tables, graphs and charts may accompany some passages. However, no math is required for this section.

Students are required to read passages, interpret informational graphics and use what they’ve read to answer questions. There will be questions that ask to locate specific information or point out an idea that was directly stated in the passage. In order to do this, students will need to understand what the author’s words imply and be able to read between the lines.

Question Structure

According to The College Board College Readiness website that outlines test components of SAT & PSAT, the Reading Test will always include the following:

• One passage from a classic or contemporary work of U.S. or world literature.
• One passage or a pair of passages from either a U.S. founding document or a text in the great global conversation they inspired. The U.S. Constitution or a speech by Nelson Mandela, for example.
• A selection about economics, psychology, sociology or some other social science.
• Two science passages (or one passage and one passage pair) that examine foundational concepts and developments in Earth science, biology, chemistry or physics.

What the Reading Test Measures

The Reading Section measures a range of skills – skills that you have acquired throughout years of schooling. These skills are Command of Evidence, Words in Context and Analysis in History/Social Studies and in Science.

Command of Evidence

In these questions, students are asked to do a number of things such as:

• Find evidence in a passage or pair of passages that best supports the answer to a previous question or serves as the basis for a reasonable conclusion.
• Identify how authors use evidence to support their claims.
• Find a relationship between an informational graphic and the passage it’s paired with

Words in Context

In these questions, you will find important, widely used words and phrases that you’ll use in college and the workplace long after you’ve taken the PSAT. The newly redesigned test will focus on your ability to:

• Use context clues in a passage to figure out which meaning of a word or phrase is being used.
• Decide how an author’s word choice shapes meaning, style and tone.

Analysis in History/Social Studies and in Science

You will encounter passages that focus on the fields of history, social studies and science. Questions within this skill will require students to utilize reading skills most needed to succeed in these subjects. An example would be where students are required to read about an experiment and then answer questions that ask to:

• Examine hypotheses.
• Interpret data.
• Consider implications.

Answers to these questions are based only on the content stated in or implied by the passage. To get a better handle on the Reading Section of the PSAT or try a practice run, view sample questions from the College Board College Readiness website to gain an understanding of the type of questions that will be found on the Reading Section of the PSAT.

Scoring

As a reminder, the redesigned PSAT adapted rights-scoring only, which means students receive a point for the correct answer but no deductions for wrong answers. Secondly, the PSAT will report a total score, section scores, test scores, cross-test scores and subscores. Read more about the breakdown of each PSAT score here to help clarify any questions or concerns you may have regarding the scoring. MathSP’s expert Test Prep Coaches can help you navigate the Reading Section on the redesigned PSAT to help you achieve your target score. Learn more about our PSAT Bridge program and how it can provide the confidence needed to achieve your highest score.

Starting October 2015, students will be taking the newly redesigned version of the Preliminary Scholastic Aptitude Test (PSAT). Last month, we discussed the various changes in the test regarding content, scoring, and test format and what it meant for your test prep. This month, we will perform a deep dive into the Math section, an area where many students tend to be the most nervous about. Here we will discuss what to expect on the Math Test questions, what you need to know and how to best prepare to master this section of the PSAT.

Format

The new PSAT version includes 48 math questions: 40 multiple choice and 8 student-produced responses, also known as grid-ins. The multiple-choice questions will have four possible answers for students to choose from. The grid-in questions require students to calculate and grid the correct answers. In these questions, no answer choices are given. However, some grid-in questions can have more than one correct answer. The Math Test is divided into 2 distinct portions:  

Yes, you read that correctly. There is a portion of the Math Test where you will be required to use your firsthand knowledge of various math concepts to test your fluency in the subject – and no calculator is allowed. Fluency in the Math Test refers to your ability to quickly solve problems by identifying and using the most efficient solution approaches.

Why This Information Matters

Are you prepared to solve 17 questions without the use of a calculator? Below is a list of math concepts and operations you’ll need to know how to do by hand:

• Perform basic math skills (addition, subtraction, multiplication, division) using fractions, decimals, and positive &amp negative integers
• Solve algebraic word problems, understand systems of equations & equalities, or algebraic functions
• Supply the correct answer for math problem by thoroughly reading and understanding graphs, charts, diagrams, and tables
• Interpret data and understand the basics of statistics and probability
• Understand geometrical concepts such as area, perimeter and circumference of a triangle, circle or polygon, and parallel and perpendicular lines

It’s important to thoroughly understand the concepts listed above in order to achieve favorable scores on the PSAT Math Test. Increased knowledge in these areas will improve your chances for college and career readiness and success being that the PSAT is preview and practice for the Scholastic Aptitude Test (SAT). Your PSAT and SAT scores will help determine your admission to the colleges and universities you will apply to. They can also help you with scholarships and grants for college tuition and expenses. This is why it is imperative that you understand math basics and know how to compute the answers by hand or with the use of the human calculator – your head! Read more about the Math Areas that will be covered on the PSAT to get a better understanding of the topics that you should focus on.

Scoring

Students often wonder the reason behind the various scores received on their PSAT. We understand that it can get a bit confusing. First off, the redesigned PSAT adapted rights-scoring only, which means students receive a point for the correct answer but no deductions for wrong answers. Secondly, the redesigned PSAT will report a total score, section scores, test scores, cross-test scores and subscores. Here is a breakdown of each type of score to help clarify any questions or concerns you may have:

1. Total Score & Section Scores The PSAT will report a Total Score, which is the sum of two Section Scores: Evidence-Based Reading & Writing and Math. Ranges for the Total Score is 320-1520. Ranges for the Section Scores is 160-760.

2. Test Scores The PSAT will report three test scores: the Reading Test score, the Writing & Language Test score and the Math Test score. Ranges for the Test Score is 8-38.

3. Cross-Test Scores The PSAT will report two cross-test scores: Analysis in History/Social Studies and Analysis in Science. These scores, based on questions in the Reading, Writing & Language and Math Tests, asks students to think analytically about texts and problems in these subject areas. Ranges for the Cross-Test Scores is 8-38.

4. Subscores The PSAT will report multiple subscores for Reading, Writing & Language, and Math with a scoring range from 1 to 15 points. Subscores provide more detail about student achievement.

• The Reading Test and the Writing & Language Test each have questions to determine two subscores: Command of Evidence & Words in Context.
• The Writing & Language Test also reports two additional subscores: Expression of Ideas & Standard English Conventions.
• The Math Test reports three subscores: Heart of Algebra, Problem Solving & Data Analysis and Passport to Advanced Math.

This may seem like a lot to take in and for the average student, it would be. Because you have MathSP, studying for the PSAT and achieving a high score is an attainable goal. Perfect practice makes perfect and that’s where MathSP can help you! MathSP’s expert Test Prep Coaches can help you navigate the Math Section on the redesigned PSAT to help you achieve your target score. Learn more about our PSAT/SAT Bridge Program and how it can provide the confidence needed to achieve your highest score.

A new school year is slowly creeping upon us and MathSP is gearing up to coach students to the new changes for various standardized tests. If you’re graduating in 2017 and after, you’ll be taking the redesigned version of the Preliminary Scholastic Aptitude Test (PSAT) starting in October 2015. It’s important that you become aware of the changes taking place and understand how test preparation coaching will continue to support students in mastering these changes.

Here’s a list of the changes and what they mean for your test prep:

Format

The redesigned PSAT will be 35 minutes longer than the current version. At 2 hours and 45 minutes compared to the previous version of 2 hours and 10 minutes, students will have to train their focus in order to answer questions correctly while maximizing the allotted time. Additionally, students will have 4 multiple-choice answers instead of 5, resulting in a higher probability of getting the right answer if you guess. MathSP will prepare you on how to answer each question with confidence so guessing won’t apply to you!

The following chart outlines the time and number of questions per section:

The new PSAT is tightly aligned with the redesigned Scholastic Aptitude Test (SAT) so students will be less apprehensive when taking the SAT, as the formats are now closely similar. With the exception of the essay section, both tests now share similar content, format and scoring.

Scoring

The new PSAT will be reported on a shared common score scale with the SAT. The scale ranges are 320-1520 for the total score, 160-760 for each of two section scores and 8-38 for test scores. Student score reports will still provide subscores for each of the three sections to help pinpoint where strengths and weaknesses lie.

Furthermore, there are no longer penalties for wrong answers. The redesigned version adapts rights-scoring only, which means students receive a point for the correct answer but no deductions for wrong answers. With this change, students no longer have to develop a game plan to determine which questions to make a guess on and which ones to leave blank. Even if unsure, make a likely guess on questions since the odds are greater in choosing the correct answer.

Content

You’ll be surprised to learn that the content on the redesigned PSAT will generally mimic the current test version. What has changed is HOW the concepts are tested and the steps students must take in order to solve problems correctly. Simply put, the content is more evidence and context-based. Greater emphasis is placed on meaning of words in extended contexts and on how word choice shapes meaning, tone and impact. Students are no longer required to memorize a laundry list of words they may never use in real life.

There is also a clearer, stronger focus on knowledge and skills that current research shows is paramount for college and career success. Math questions will include more problem-solving, data analysis & algebraic linear equations and less emphasis on geometry. As a result, students will need to strengthen their skills in the areas of problem-solving, data interpretation and word connotation. Because these areas align with what students are currently learning in class, they’re ability to further develop these skills are greater than ever before.

Remember the 4P’s: Plan, Prepare, Practice and Perform. Students can stay one step ahead by taking advantage of the PSAT practice test available here. Once they’ve finished the test, use the answer explanation PDF here to review answers, read explanations and learn from mistakes.

MathSP’s expert Test Prep Coaches can help you achieve your target score on the redesigned PSAT.

Learn more about our PSAT Bridge Program and how it can provide the confidence needed to achieve your highest score.

SAT Subject Tests are the icing on the cake of your college admission exams experience! Taking a few of the SAT Subject Tests is a great way to 1) demonstrate your proficiency in the subject areas that you intend to pursue in college and 2) either reinforce the solid grades that you received your junior and senior years or compensate for not so solid grades. Schools use these tests to better understand your strengths (and to contextualize your grades), to assess how ready you are for college level work in these subjects, and to make admissions decisions. There are 20 SAT Subject Tests that fall into five categories: English, Math, Science, History, and Languages. All of the tests are content-based, hour-long assessments that consist of multiple-choice questions.  

SAT Subject Test Scoring

Like each section of the SAT, each SAT Subject Test is scored on a 200-800 point scale. Here’s how the raw score is calculated: – One point is added for each correct answer – No points are deducted for unanswered questions – A fraction of a point is subtracted for wrong answers: 1/4 point for five-choice questions, 1/3 point for four-choice questions, and 1/2 point for three-choice questions The total value of incorrectly answered questions is subtracted from the total value of correctly answered questions. If the resulting score is a fraction, it is rounded to the nearest whole number — 1/2 or more is rounded up; less than 1/2 is rounded down. Finally, the raw score is converted to your 200-800 score. Key Takeaway: Because points are deducted for incorrect answers, it’s important that you make strategic guesses when necessary. Make a strategic guess only if you can eliminate at least one answer for three-choice and four-choice questions and at least two answers for five-choice questions. Oftentimes, you may be able to deduce the correct answer by eliminating several incorrect answers.

Must I Take SAT Subject Tests?

Once you’ve finalized the list of colleges that will receive your glorious application, be sure to note which schools require SAT Subject Tests, which recommend SAT Subject Tests, and which do not recommend SAT Subject Tests. Colleges that require SAT Subject Tests: These schools explicitly state how many SAT Subject Tests they expect you to take. Some of them even require certain tests. MIT, for example, requires its applicants to take one of the Math SAT Subject Tests (either Level 1 or Level 2) and one of the Science SAT Subjects Tests (Physics, Chemistry or Biology). Other schools that require at least one SAT Subject Test include Columbia, Dartmouth, Cornell, Amherst College, Boston College, and Bryn Mawr. Colleges that recommend SAT Subject Tests: Think of the recommendation as a nudge-nudge and a wink-wink: you’re at a disadvantage if you don’t take SAT Subject Tests. Stanford University recommends (but does not require) that its applicants “submit official results of at least two SAT Subject Tests.” For schools like Stanford, which has a 6.6% acceptance rate, you’re essentially putting yourself out of the running unless you take at least two SAT Subject Tests. For schools that have higher acceptance rates, taking SAT Subject Tests is not so critical but it is always helpful. Think of the recommendation as that school’s way of detecting applicants that are truly serious students committed to going above and beyond and those that are not. Other schools that recommend SAT Subject Tests include the University of Alberta, Chapman University, John Hopkins University, Emory University, and Northwestern. Colleges that do not recommend SAT Subject Tests: You need not worry about taking the subject tests… unless of course you got a C in Math but know, unlike everyone else, that you’re a math genius of the likes of Einstein. In this case (and in others where you feel that your grades don’t reflect your abilities) solid SAT Subject Test scores may significantly enhance your application. Key Takeaway: Colleges and universities can change their requirements as often as they like. Some that require, recommend, and do not recommend SAT Subject Tests one year can change their requirements another year. For the most current information about the requirements for a specific college or university, check with the admissions office to ensure that you have the most up-to-date information. Better safe and prepared than sorry!

SAT Subject Tests Outlined

Visit the College Board for descriptions of each subject test and to Try Out Real SAT Subject Test Questions. Here is a quick outline of each test: English – Literature The Literature SAT Subject Test gives you the opportunity to demonstrate your strengths in reading comprehension and literary analysis. History – U.S. History and World History The History SAT Subject Tests give you the opportunity to demonstrate your knowledge of either World or U.S. History. Math – Mathematics Level 1 and Mathematics Level 2 The Mathematics Level 1 SAT Subject Test assesses your knowledge of algebra and geometry – two years of algebra and one year of geometry is required. The Mathematics Level 2 Subject Test covers the same material presented on the Mathematics Level 1 test as well as trigonometry and pre-calculus. Science – Biology, Chemistry and Physics The Biology, Chemistry, and Physics Subject Tests assess your understanding of the major concepts in these three fields. If you are interested in pursuing a career in engineering or science, taking one or more of these tests is a good way to demonstrate that you’re serious about and proficient in your intended field. Languages – Chinese with Listening, French, French with Listening, German, German with Listening, Italian, Japanese with Listening, Korean with Listening, Latin, Modern Hebrew, Spanish, Spanish with Listening The SAT Subject Tests in various languages allow you to demonstrate your understanding of the written form of that language. If you choose to take the test with listening, you will also be able to showcase your verbal facility in that language.

The What & When of SAT Subject Tests

Now that you know how important SAT Subjects Tests are, you may be wondering how to choose which ones to take. It’s pretty easy: Take the SAT Subject Tests that cover your strengths and interests so that your scores reflect your aptitude. But remember, some colleges require that you take specific tests, so visit their websites to make sure you meet all of the requirements. Believe it or not, timing is everything: Take the SAT Subject Tests when the content is fresh! It’s best to sit for the subject tests soon after you complete the corresponding courses in high school. For example, if you plan to take AP Chemistry during your junior year, plan to take the Chemistry SAT Subject Test during the spring of your junior year or early summer. There’s no reason to wait with SAT Subject Tests. Quick Tip: Consider taking the SAT Subject Tests that correspond to your AP classes. Most of you attend schools that require you to take AP exams for your AP classes, so why not take the SAT test for that same subject? The preparation for AP exams is only slightly different from the preparation required for the SAT Subject Tests. Save yourself time and energy and pair your AP classes with subject tests. SAT Subject Test scores are valid until you graduate, so don’t worry about expiring test scores. Finally, before you take the SAT Subject Tests, make sure you work through sample problems and take practice tests available through the College Board. Remember the 4P’s: Plan, Prepare, Practice, and Perform. Regardless of the subject tests you choose to take, high scores will impress admissions advisers, and you will stand out from your peers! MathSP’s expert Test Prep Coaches can help you achieve your target score on the Math & Science SAT Subject Tests. Learn more about our SAT Subject Tests Coaching options.

If the mention of the word ‘math’ gives you testing anxiety, take a deep breath and release! There is no reason to fear: MathSP can equip you with key tips and tactics that will make the math section of the SAT and ACT easier to manage.

1. Take the Necessary Classes

Before taking the SAT or ACT, make sure that you have studied pre-algebra, geometry, and algebra with functions in high school. If you plan to take the ACT, algebra II and trigonometry are also necessary. While taking these classes, focus on grasping the concepts and get extra help if necessary. You’ll need a solid foundation in these subjects to do well on the SAT and ACT.

2. Learn the Tested Math Concepts

Be informed of the math concepts tested on the exam you are preparing to take. Fortunately, you’re not required to know every topic covered in your math textbooks. Make a list of the math concepts that are covered in your classes and tested on the SAT, ACT, or SAT Subject Tests so that you can better focus your time and efforts while you’re studying.

3. Learn to “Read” Math

Are the symbols and variables blending together with the words? Can you read equations as fluently as you can read this sentence? Math is a language in the same way that English is a language. The more you familiarize yourself with the language of math and how it translates the everyday “stuff” of the world into expressions and equations, the faster you’ll be able to see past the wording and start thinking about the best way to solve the problems. The more difficulty you have “reading math,” the more time you will need to invest in mastering this skill. Spend some time becoming STEM Fluent.

4. Make Time to Practice Math

Becoming “fluent” in math requires countless hours of concentrated studying. Schedule uninterrupted time to practice your math skills. Yes, you’ll have to turn off your cell phone, computer, television, and any other electronic device. You’ll also want to study in a location with limited noise and distractions. Uninterrupted study will increase your level of focus and diligence. Be consistent with your studying; plan this time (just like you would plan going to a movie or visiting a friend) and practice on a daily basis leading up to your test date.

5. Know the Math Question Pitfalls

Test makers are good at creating ‘wrong answers.’ Don’t fall into the traps! If you learn the language of math, how to read the questions, and testing strategies, you will avoid falling for the wrong answers.

6. Reflect on What You’ve Learned

If you choose to get prep from the MathSP private coaching option or the small group course option, it is important to reflect on each lesson on your own time. After each session with your MathSP Coach, review the concepts, strategies, and problems that you learned, and work the problems again without assistance to make sure you’ve mastered the material. Repetition is extremely important because it enables you to fully grasp the concepts and strategies on your own. If you’re struggling with a particular kind of problem, be sure to review the underlying concepts with your MathSP Coach. Practice, practice, practice is the best way to commit your new math skills to long-term memory so that when you take your test, you’ll be able to quickly deploy the tools and concepts that you’ve learned.

7. Adopt A Motivated Mindset

Finally, your mindset is key to learning and mastering test prep math. With a confident and motivated state of mind you can find creative ways to remember the rules, formulas, relationships, concepts and strategies that pave the road to Test Day Success.

MathSP provides you with math test prep problems and solutions on the MathSP Facebook page and Twitter page. This is a great way for you to connect and engage with other students who are studying for college admission exams. Try working these problems on your own, and then review the detailed solution that follows each problem. Remember, it’s critically important to practice and hone your skills on a daily basis leading up to your test date!

Contact MathSP today and let our expert Academic and Test Prep Coaches help you put these ideas into practice to achieve your target test scores!

Each new school year brings annual standardized testing for high school students. Starting with the PSAT in October of each year, standardized tests including the SAT, ACT, APs, and SAT Subject Tests fly at you fast and furious. With increasing pressure on educators to assess student performance, the pressure on parents to ensure that their children are prepared to succeed mounts considerably as well. To succeed overall, it is important for you to plan, prepare, and practice in order to perform. These “4Ps” will enable you to reach your target score and fortify your confidence as you begin to tackle these exams. So what can you do to get ready?

1. Plan

Your first step to a successful college admissions exam experience is to develop a plan. As you develop your plan, outline when you will register and take each test as well as what you will do to prepare for each test. Make sure you allot sufficient preparation time, which typically means giving yourself about three months to boost your scores before test day. However, the earlier you start, the more time you have to ensure you reach your “target score.”

2. Prepare and Practice

After you’ve developed a plan, you must begin to prepare! Research your top 3-5 colleges, and determine your “target score” for each exam you plan to take. Your target score should be equal to or higher than the scores reported by the schools on your list. You don’t want to take these tests without ample preparation; just like any sport or musical instrument you play, practice is the key to reaching your target score. Begin your practice early, and study daily (if only for 30-90 minutes each day) to become familiar with the test format, content, timing, and question types. Doing so will bolster preparation, confidence, and focus going into the exam. Your results on these tests will influence your path so it pays to invest in preparation to ensure you reach your target score – and that you score high enough to earn scholarships too (which really makes the investment worthwhile)! To position yourself to reach your target score, consider the following:

1. Practice with an expert test prep coach
2. Practice in a test prep course
3. Practice with an exam preparation book
4. Practice with online resources

The right kind of practice will enable you to achieve your target score and maximize your chances of getting accepted into the colleges of your choice. The number of students who have received test prep from MathSP and, as a result of achieving a high test score, have earned scholarships that helped pay for college is simply staggering! There’s no question: making the investment on the front end will help you save money on the back end!

3. Perform

Now that you’ve planned, prepared, and practiced, it’s time to perform! In order to perform, however, it’s also important to condition your body and mind. Don’t forget to take care of yourself during these busy exam times. After years of practice, Gold-winning U.S. gymnast and Olympic All-Around champion Gabrielle “Gabby” Douglas made her hard work count. Gabby is a great example of how planning, preparation, and practice lead to a strong performance. As a member of the U.S. Women’s Gymnastics team at the 2012 Summer Olympics, she won gold medals in both the individual and team all-around competitions. You too can apply Gabby’s Olympic mindset when exam day arrives! It’s important to condition your body and mind. Don’t forget to put the pieces in place that will lead to your strongest performance possible. Be sure that you do the following:

1. Eat Healthy Foods – Eating food that is good for your brain before a strenuous task like an exam can improve your score.
2. Be Comfortable – Test time is not the time to make a fashion statement – unless the fashion statement is comfy!
3. Exercise More – Studies show that you can increase processing speed and memory by working out. So grab a test buddy and start exercising.
4. Plan for Your Test Environment – As much as you can, practice studying in an environment that is similar to where you will take the test to simulate a real testing experience.
5. Practice Yoga or Meditation – Learning how to relax your body and mind during the exam can reduce your stress and increase your chances of success.
6. Develop Mental Toughness – Prepare mentally every day. Just like Gabby strengthened her body for the Olympic Games, you can strengthen your mental muscles. Complete a mental workout by doing practice problems every day to dramatically improve your focus and ability to consistently achieve. Consistently engaging in opportunities to boost your STEM Fluency will sharpen your mind, improve your grades, and make test day a cinch!
7. Make Short Term Sacrifices for Long Term Gains – Gabby moved away from her family to train with her coach and become a world-class gymnast. As much as you can, be committed to studying in an environment that is similar to where you will take the test to simulate a real testing experience.
8. Get a Good Coach – Gabby clearly has plenty of raw talent, but the mentorship of her coach Liang Chow also played a major role in her success. You want your Test Prep Coach to have proven expertise and credibility. The MathSP Team is here to be YOUR Liang Chow. We will help you maximize your raw talent, boost your skill set and understanding, and build your confidence.

Ready. Set. Go! photo courtesy of http://gabrielledouglas.com/

Is your PSAT score up to par? On average, students who take the PSAT score higher on the SAT than students who do not take the PSAT. If that’s not enough to compel you to prepare vigorously for the PSAT this October, consider that the PSAT can also qualify you for National Merit Scholarships your junior year!

Your PSAT Score and the National Merit Scholarship Program

The PSAT is also known as the National Merit® Scholarship Qualifying Test (NMSQT). The National Merit Scholarship Program began in 1955 as a competition for academic recognition and college scholarships. High school juniors participate in the National Merit Program by taking the PSAT/NMSQT.

The PSAT/NMSQT is not required for college admission but earning a National Merit Scholarship is considered a prestigious accomplishment, a feat that can only be attained by testing well on the PSAT/NMSQT. Although less than 1% of PSAT-takers are named Merit Scholars, the distinction is an instantly recognizable feature on any college application. College admission advisors heavily seek National Merit Scholars and are willing to pay for the privilege of being able to boast a large number of them each year. National Merit Scholarships range from $2,500 to $10,000 per year, but they are worth far more. The tables below present private and public universities that offer full tuition/full ride scholarships to National Merit Scholars.

KEY:
NMF – National Merit Finalist
NAF – National Achievement Finalist
NMSF – National Merit Semi-Finalist
NASF – National Achievement Semi-Finalist
Full ride – Full tuition and room/board
* For four years/eight semesters
** For five years/ten semesters

Is My PSAT Score Good Enough?

The PSAT/NMSQT is offered once per academic year in October and includes three sections: Critical Reading, Math, and Writing Skills. Each section is scored on a scale from 20 to 80 with a composite score ranging from 60 to 240. PSAT score reports include national percentiles, which allow you to compare your scores with other students in your grade level who have taken the PSAT/NMSQT. If you take the PSAT/NMSQT as a junior, you will receive junior percentiles. If you take the PSAT/NMSQT as a sophomore or earlier, you will receive sophomore percentiles. For example, a junior with a percentile of 55 has earned a score better than 55 percent of all juniors.

Although not every student will become a National Merit Scholar, the PSAT/NMSQT is important for more than just scholarships. On average, students who take the PSAT score higher on the SAT than students who do not take the PSAT. Most schools offer the PSAT as early as 8th or 9th grade. You should take it as many times as possible, and use your PSAT scores to build on your strengths and improve upon your weaknesses from year to year. View the PSAT as a learning opportunity that will allow you to become familiar with the format, structure, and question types that you will encounter on the SAT. This insight will inform your plan of attack as you focus your energy in preparation for the SAT.

You may wonder how your PSAT/NMSQT score translates to the SAT. The SAT sub-scores range from 200 to 800. To calculate what your SAT scores would be, simply add an extra zero to each of your PSAT sub-scores. For example, a score of 60 on the PSAT Math section translates to a 600 on the SAT Math section.

Set a Target PSAT Score

You can make the job of planning your SAT studies easier if you start early by prepping for the PSAT/NMSQT.  First, research your target schools and find out what counts as a “good” score – meaning, determine the score range that most admitted students fall within, and choose a target score that is within the upper quartile of that range.  Then, use the PSAT/NMSQT as practice for the SAT. Strive to achieve your target score on the PSAT.  Just think, by the time you take the SAT, you won’t simply meet your target score: you’ll surpass it!

Learn more about how MathSP can help you succeed on the PSAT!

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