No one wants to waste their time or money when it comes to preparing for the SAT and PSAT/NMSQT. After students have learned the recurring patterns, shortcuts and test-taking techniques from the “Master the SAT Class” it is extremely important that they continue preparing for the real test. (Just like in sports, athletes MUST practice in order to win a game.) I highly recommend that students ONLY practice with College Board materials. This is the company who makes the tests, and students need to become familiar with their questions, hidden patterns and schemes.
All students should take the PSAT/NMSQT in eighth, ninth and tenth grade BEFORE it counts for big scholarships in the junior year. This allows students to get familiar with the test, and they will receive their test booklet back so they can review it. All students should definitely take the PSAT/NMSQT in their junior year (offered in October) because this will qualify them for the National Merit competition.
When practicing for one test will help prepare for the other one.
By writing down your missed questions and the correct answers, you can learn how to identify types of problems that are hard for you, and hopefully why they trip you up. When you are faced with a similar question in the future, your journal work will prove useful. Make sure to periodically go back over your journal entries. See College Prep Genius for optimal ideas for the “Journal for Success.”