PSAT Subjects Breakdown, Anyone?

I was hoping to start prepping for the PSAT, but I'm not totally clear on what subjects I'll be tested on. Can someone give me a quick rundown of what areas I should be focusing on? I'm aiming to do really well, so I want to be as prepared as possible!

Absolutely, prepping for the PSAT is a great way to set yourself up for success both on this test and the SAT later on! The PSAT essentially has two sections: Evidence-Based Reading and Writing, and Math.

Within the Reading and Writing section, however, you'll have two separate tests. For the Reading Test, you'll face a series of passages from different genres (typically including one or two passages from classic or contemporary literature, passages from the social sciences and the humanities, and sometimes even science-based passages) and answer questions to test your reading comprehension abilities. Then, for the Writing and Language Test, you'll be asked to be an 'editor' of sorts, and improve the clarity, grammar, and overall writing style of selected passages.

The Math section is broken down into two parts as well, one where you can use a calculator and one where you cannot. This section covers a broad range of math concepts, including algebra, problem-solving and data analysis, and some advanced math like trigonometry and pre-calculus.

To prepare, you should certainly familiarize yourself with these types of questions, perhaps by taking practice tests and doing specific exercises focusing on the area that is more challenging for you, depending on if you're more of a STEM or a humanities person. The College Board provides free practice PSAT exams, and there are also many prep books available, like those from the Princeton Review. Good luck, and remember that practice is key to becoming comfortable with the format and timing of the test!