Steps to Acing your PSAT/SAT
It's that time of the year again for high schoolers to give their all to the dreaded PSAT/SAT examinations that can open many unprecedented opportunities in great colleges and universities. First time trying out the PSAT? Or looking for advice on more efficient prep methods? Here are some cliché study tricks-and maybe a few new tips-that might be useful!
1. Check ALL Initially Given Resources
Although the guide coverage is repetitive for each year, familiarizing yourself with the examination procedures and material is the best way to build a foundation for your study schedule. Start by checking out the practice questions in the guide and see how well you can do without revision beforehand. From there, build your field of knowledge by looking over the questions you struggle with and notes from previous lectures. Make full use of past notes as PSATs/SATs assess your skills on many old lessons.
Other useful sources include:
- Khan Academy Diagnostics and Tests
- SAT Syllabus
- Online Sample Papers
- Optional: Finding a tutor & Textbooks (Recommended: The Ultimate Guide to SAT Grammar by Erica L. Meltzer, and 10 Practice Tests for the SAT Math by Nielson Phu).
- Optional: Look for experiences/tips from previous test takers IRL or online.
2. Look Ahead and Explore
Just like MAP tests, PSAT/SAT questions-maths especially- tend to be something more advanced that you have probably never seen before. I would recommend briefing through a grade/level ahead. However, this doesn't mean you have to become a pro at Calculus or World Literature within two months; skim through online syllabuses to find some more basic advanced-level principles that you think might come in handy. Anything you don't see to understand? Search it up! Take your time absorbing those pieces of information without going too in-depth. Don't forget to ask for assistance if needed; that's what your teachers are for!
Useful websites for insight:
- IXL.com
- Siyavula.com
- Khan Academy.com
- leverageedu.com
- Language and Literature are more about reviewing grammar and exploring vocabulary, but you can take mini-reading and English tests to improve your level.
3. Eat Well, Drink Well, and Sleep Well!
Studying for PSATs/SATs is important, but neglecting your health would only waste away your efforts. Eating, drinking, and sleeping well isn't just to ensure your energy and well-being to be present on the examination date; it's to keep your cognitive activity going. Set a sleeping time; don't start prepping for PSATs/SATs when it's time to go to dreamland. And if possible, avoid too many caffeinated stimulants and sugary foods during the period of prepping.
Key Takeaways:
- Maintain a good consumption of carbs, proteins, and veggies.
- Stay hydrated (not too much boba and coffee).
- SLEEP ENOUGH. :)
4. Distractions Do Help (I promise)
Sometimes deeply indulging yourself too much in academic materials work against your favor. Although taking small breaks help you clear your mind, distractions generally work better. Picking up your favorite leisure activity, taking naps, etc. will allow your brain to rest; you can easily go back to studying after that to see your progress.
This method also improves your mood, preventing you from feeling overwhelmed. PSATs/SATs check your understanding and evaluating skills, not just memory. So make sure you give your brain some rest, opening up more space for critical thinking.
5. Believe in Yourself!
The most important factor in acing your PSAT/SAT is staying calm and having faith in your abilities thus far. Remember, this test is just one of many opportunities for your future. I hope this article will aid your prep journey to the tests! Goodluck!