Hey everyone, I'm a junior and I've been hearing mixed advice about preparing for the PSAT. I understand that it can qualify me for National Merit Scholarships, but I'm not sure how much effort I should put into studying for it. Should I treat it like the SAT or is it less intense? Would love to hear how you guys approached your preparation. Thanks!
Hey there! It's fantastic that you're thinking ahead about the PSAT and National Merit Scholarships. Given the potential scholarship opportunities, it's certainly worth your time to prepare, though you may not need to invest quite as intensely as you would for the SAT.
The PSAT is a bit shorter and doesn't include an essay section, but it does mirror the SAT in terms of content and structure. Start by taking a practice PSAT to identify your strengths and weaknesses. This will help tailor your study plan.
Resources like Khan Academy offer free SAT and PSAT prep materials that are quite helpful. Collegevine experts can also help specifically with PSAT practice over the months leading up to the exam made a significant difference in their score. Remember, consistent, focused practice over time typically yields better results than cramming at the last minute. Wishing you the best with your preparation!
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