PSAT – FAQ’s

Gearing up for the future? How do you choose between taking the SAT or the ACT? 

The SAT and ACT have content differences such that, depending on your strengths and weaknesses, you are likely to do better on one test versus the other.  For example, the SAT has a stronger vocabulary focus while the ACT has a science section. The types of math problems emphasized by each test are different.  The SAT is longer overall but gives you more time for each question than the ACT.  So, students with time-management issues may do better on the SAT.  Most important, questions on the SAT require more reasoning and analysis, while the ACT is [delete the word “more”] straightforward, assessing basic achievement skills and less reasoning abilities.

If you are interested in determining which test you are most likely to score highest on, Testing Mom can give you a 1-hour Mindprint Assessment of your cognitive affinities.  This will predict and project your scoring range on both tests and offer advice on which test may be best for you.  It also guides you on which areas of the test you have the best chance of improving upon and where to focus your attention during preparation.  The advantage of taking the Mindprint Assessment is that you won’t waste time or money preparing for a test you don’t end up taking or one that you are less likely to excel on.  One of our experts will meet with you after you take the Mindprint Assessment to explain your score and what it means in terms of whether the SAT or ACT is the better test for you, given your cognitive strengths and weaknesses.  To learn more about this tool, CLICK HERE (https://www.testingmom.com/store/mindprint-cognitive-assessment/) and scroll down to the video called SAT vs. ACT with Mindprint Data.

Does TestingMom.com offer tutoring for the PSAT test? 

Yes, we do!  Call us at 877-609-6203 or email us at online.tutoring@testingmom.com for information or to get started.

Can you practice for the PSAT on TestingMom.com? 

Yes! Join TestingMom.com today and, as part of your membership, you will have access to an in-depth library of interactive practice questions, detailed lessons, and printable worksheets for every section and topic on the PSAT test. Questions and learning resources are available for each skill listed below that is assessed on the PSAT:

Reading-

Command of Evidence

1. Textual Evidence
2. Understanding Relationships
3. Analyzing Quantitative Information
4. Analyzing Arguments
5. Analyzing Purpose

Words in Context

1. Interpreting Words and Phrases in Context
2. Analyzing Word Choice

Analysis of Information

1. Determining Central Ideas and Themes
2. Analyzing Multiple Texts
3. Analyzing Text Structure
4. Summarizing
5. Reading Closely
6. Analyzing Point of View

Reading – Test-Taking Strategies Guide

Reading – Test-Taking Strategies Video

Writing and Language-

Expression and Analysis of Ideas

1. Development of Ideas
2. Organizational Structure
3. Effective Language Use
4. Command of Evidence
5. Relevance of Supporting Information and Data

Standards of English Conventions

1. Sentence Structure
2. Conventions of Usage
3. Conventions of Punctuation

Words in Context

1. Revising Choices of Words and Phrases

Writing and Language: Test-Taking Strategies Guide

Writing and Language: Test-Taking Strategies Video

Math-

Heart of Algebra

1. 1. Linear Expressions and Equations – One Variable
   2. Linear Inequalities – One Variable
   3. Build Linear Functions
   4. Systems of Linear Inequalities – Two Variables
   5. Systems of Linear Equations – Two Variables
   6. Algebraically Solve Linear Equations and Inequalities
   7. Algebraically Solve Systems of Linear Equations
   8. Interpret Linear Expressions
   9. Algebraic and Graphical Representations

Problem Solving and Data Analysis

1. Ratios, Rates, Proportional Relationships, and Scale Drawing
2. Percentages
3. Measurement Quantities, Units, and Unit Conversions
4. Scatter Plots – Linear, Quadratic, and Exponential Models
5. Key Features of Graphs
6. Linear and Exponential Growth
7. Two-Way Tables
8. Inferences from Data
9. Shape, Center, and Spread of Data
10. Evaluate Reports

Passport to Advanced Math

1. Create Quadratic or Exponential Functions
2. Forms of Expressions and Equations
3. Rational Exponents
4. Equivalent Algebraic Expressions
5. Solve Quadratic Equations
6. Operations with Polynomial Expressions
7. Solve Radical and Rational Equations
8. Solve Systems of Linear and Quadratic Equations
9. Rewrite Rational Expressions
10. Interpret Nonlinear Expressions
11. Zeroes and Factors of Polynomials
12. Nonlinear Relationships
13. Function Notation
14. Rewrite Expressions and Equations

Additional Topics in Math

1. Volume
2. Trigonometric Ratios and Pythagorean Theorem
3. Complex Numbers
4. Radians – Angles, Arc Length, Trigonometric Functions
5. Circle Theorems
6. Congruence and Similarity Theorems
7. Similarity, Right Triangles, and Trigonometric Ratios
8. Circles in the Coordinate Plane

Math: Test-Taking Strategies Guide

Math: Test-Taking Strategies Video

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