Hi guys! I'm trying to understand the PSAT conversion chart. How does it convert the raw scores into scaled scores? And how should I use this chart to get an idea of where I stand in comparison to others taking the test?
Hello! The PSAT conversion chart is designed to convert your raw scores (the number of correct answers) into scaled scores. For the PSAT, the scoring system ranges from 160 to 760 for the Math section, and from 160 to 760 for the Evidence-Based Reading and Writing (EBRW) section, making the highest total score, 1520. The scaled scores are determined through a process called 'equating', which ensures that scores are comparable across different test versions and test-takers.
To use the conversion chart, you should first find your raw scores for both the Math and EBRW sections. Then, locate the corresponding scaled scores on the chart for each section. Finally, add these two scaled scores together to get your total PSAT score. This will give you an idea of your performance on the test.
To see where you stand in comparison to others, you can check the percentile rankings provided by the College Board. These percentiles indicate the percentage of test-takers who scored lower than you. For example, if your total PSAT score is in the 75th percentile, it means you scored higher than 75% of the students who took the test. Keep in mind that PSAT scores closely correspond to SAT scores, so you can use these percentile rankings as a rough estimate of how you might perform on the SAT. Good luck!
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