Your Student Got Their PSAT Score - Now What?

PSAT scores were just released for 11th and 10th graders - what's next for your high schooler? As a parent, view this as helpful feedback to guide strategic prep, not cause stress. Analyzing the results closely highlights your student's strengths and areas needing improvement. Use these insights to pick targeted practice resources and determine if the SAT or ACT aligns better with their skills. For 11th graders, outstanding PSAT performance can unlock National Merit Scholarship opportunities. For 10th graders, it provides an early skills assessment to build on over time. Beyond just practice, this diagnostic score equips all students to tailor prep and maximize future test success. With thoughtful follow-up, they can leverage these results to excel when it really counts.

While labeled a “preliminary” exam, your student’s PSAT performance provides valuable insights that, if leveraged strategically, can set them up for success on the SAT, ACT, and more. Here’s how to maximize the benefits of this practice test.


Decoding the Scores 


Alongside the total score, the section scores in reading, writing and math showcase your student’s subject-specific abilities. Comparing these spotlights stronger and weaker areas. The percentiles demonstrate how your teen ranked against peers nationally. 


The item analysis details each question answered correctly or incorrectly. Pinpointing gaps here shows precisely which concepts need focused study. Use this data to select targeted practice resources addressing your student’s unique needs.


What The Score Report Means for Juniors


For 11th graders, the PSAT carries extra weight as the National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test. Outstanding scores can lead to prestigious academic recognitions that strengthen college applications.


The PSAT score provides an early indicator of SAT/ACT readiness. Use the PSAT concordance tables to estimate your junior’s potential score range on the college admission tests. This helps determine which test may better fit their strengths and scoring patterns.


Planning Next Steps for Juniors


In the wake of PSAT results, smart next steps for juniors may include:


- Take an official ACT practice tests to help pick the optimal exam. 


- Registering for strategic test dates in the spring or summer, allowing 6-10 weeks of prep.


- Exploring group classes or tutoring to sharpen weak areas revealed on the PSAT.


- Using the item analysis to focus practice on challenging concepts needing improvement.



What The Score Report Means for Sophomores


For 10th graders, PSAT results provide early feedback on skill levels to build upon. Comparing year-over-year scores illuminates progress and persistent gaps needing work. The PSAT gives sophomores valuable testing experience and data to shape preparation plans as juniors, when scores impact college applications. For now, reassure your younger teens that they have time to sharpen their academic abilities.


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