The Preliminary SAT (PSAT), also known as the National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test (NMSQT), is an important standardized exam for high school students, typically taken in the 10th or 11th grade. The PSAT Math test assesses your proficiency in mathematical reasoning, problem solving, and critical thinking. A strong performance on the math section not only reflects a solid foundation in math skills but can also help you qualify for scholarships and prepare for future college admissions tests such as the SAT.
Although the College Board mentions that preparing in advance is not required, review sessions can help students feel more confident and reinforce ideas learned in class. With the PSAT just around the corner, now is the time to hone your mathematical skills so you are up to date on what’s being asked on the exam. Whether you consider yourself a numbers person or not, it’s a good idea to go into the exam feeling prepared.
What’s on the PSAT Math Test?
The questions on the digital PSAT Math test focus on four main areas:
- Algebra
- Problem solving and data analysis
- Advanced math
- Geometry and trigonometry
This test is designed to measure the mathematical skills you will use in college and your career. You will see two types of questions: multiple-choice and student-produced response. For the multiple-choice questions, you will select the correct answer from four options. The student-produced response questions do not provide answer choices, requiring you to demonstrate full proficiency in problem solving.
You can use a calculator on the entire test; however, you will find that some of the questions can be answered more efficiently without using one. You can bring your own calculator or use the Desmos calculator embedded in the test.
Algebra
This section assesses your analytical skills and ability to fluently solve and create linear equations and inequalities. Some problems in this section may be straightforward while others will pose challenges of strategy and understanding.
The multiple-choice questions in this section assess your understanding of algebraic concepts, such as solving equations, inequalities, and systems of equations, as well as interpreting and analyzing expressions and functions. Student-produced response questions require you to provide your own answers, without answer choices, which tests your ability to apply algebraic skills to solve problems.
Watch IvyWise tutor Catherine demonstrate how to solve an algebra problem featuring a linear equation with two variables — this is an example of a problem you might see on the test.
Problem Solving and Data Analysis
This portion of the math section of the PSAT gauges your ability to understand and apply quantitative reasoning about ratios, rates, and proportional relationships. Some questions present information about the relationship between two variables in a graph, scatterplot, or table. This section checks your understanding of essential concepts in statistics, as well as assessing your conceptual meaning of standard deviation (not to calculate it).
You will be asked to:
- Interpret graphs and tables: You must extract information from charts, graphs, and tables, and use it to answer questions.
- Work with ratios, percentages, and proportional reasoning: These skills are tested in real-world scenarios, like calculating growth rates or comparing quantities.
- Understand statistics and probability: You may need to analyze data sets, understand measures like mean and median, and use probability concepts.
- Apply math in real-world contexts: You might solve word problems involving topics such as unit conversion, financial calculations, and population changes.
Advanced Math
This section of the examination tests topics important to master prior to studying more complex mathematics levels. This section focuses on topics such as:
- Quadratic and higher-order equations: You must solve quadratic equations, work with polynomials, and analyze their properties.
- Exponential functions: Understanding and applying exponential growth and decay models are key in this section.
- Function notation and manipulation: You are required to interpret, manipulate, and analyze functions using function notation.
- Systems of equations: This includes solving linear and nonlinear systems and interpreting solutions in different contexts.
Overall, the advanced math section emphasizes the ability to solve multi-step problems and apply higher-level mathematical reasoning.
Geometry and Trigonometry
For this section, you will solve these types of problems:
- Geometry: You are tested on properties of shapes, including circles, triangles, and polygons. Topics include calculating area, perimeter, volume, and angles, as well as understanding the Pythagorean theorem and coordinate geometry.
- Trigonometry: This section involves basic trigonometric functions (sine, cosine, and tangent) and their applications, such as solving for unknown sides or angles in right triangles.
These questions focus on applying geometric and trigonometric principles to solve real-world problems, emphasizing spatial reasoning and measurement.
Test Prep Tips for PSAT Math
Success on the PSAT Math test requires a combination of strong foundational skills and test-taking strategies. Here are a few tips:
- Review key concepts: Focus on understanding the underlying principles in algebra, geometry, and trigonometry rather than simply memorizing formulas.
- Practice word problems: Since the PSAT includes many real-world problem-solving questions, practicing word problems is essential to understanding how to apply math skills in context.
- Take practice tests: Familiarize yourself with the format and timing of the test by taking practice tests under timed conditions. This will help build confidence and improve time management.
- Practice student-produced response questions: These require careful calculation and the ability to produce the correct answer without answer choices to guide you.
By learning about the structure of the exam and taking the time to study appropriately, students can feel confident about the PSAT math section on exam day. If you are currently preparing for the PSAT or another standardized test like the ACT or SAT, our team of expert tutors can help you create a test-taking strategy and hone important study skills.
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