How can I make the most of my PSAT scores in planning for college?

Just got my PSAT scores back and I'm kind of okay with them, but how should I use these results to plan my next steps towards college? Are they a good predictor for the SAT or should I be looking at them differently?

Hello there! It's great to hear that you've received your PSAT scores. These scores are indeed a good starting point for predicting your SAT performance, as they are designed to be a preliminary gauge of your strengths and areas for improvement.

Since the PSAT is a precursor to the SAT, the format and content are similar, so your PSAT score can guide your SAT prep by highlighting specific subjects that may need more attention. You can use your results to focus on your weaker areas as you begin your SAT preparation. For instance, if your critical reading score wasn't as high as you'd hoped, you could dedicate more study time to reading comprehension and vocabulary exercises.

Additionally, an often-overlooked benefit of the PSAT is the potential to qualify for National Merit Scholarships if your score is particularly high. Finally, remember that although PSAT scores give you a good indication of how you might score on the SAT, they don't fully determine your readiness.

Continued practice, taking challenging courses, and perhaps engaging in test prep courses or materials can yield significant improvements. Keep up the effort, and use your PSAT experience as a helpful tool on your path to college!