How to Translate PSAT Scores
- 1). Find the numeric scores in reading, math and writing. Each number falls between 20 and 80, with 80 being a perfect score. These numbers provide an indication of how many questions the student answered correctly in each subject. Use these scores to find general strengths and weaknesses.
- 2). Find the range of the score. It will say, for example, 45 to 55. The difficulty of questions varies from test to test. The range allows for test variations and explains that a student taking the test more than once would tend toward a score within the given range.
- 3). Look for the subject-specific percentile rank. This number, shown as a percent, determines where the student's score falls in comparison to other students taking the PSAT. The number is the percent of students taking the test who got a lower score in each subject
- 4). Find the total score. The total score represents the sum of the scores of the three subject tests. Another percentile rank is given that indicates the percent of students who scored lower on the test as a whole.
- 5). Locate for the more detailed report of specific skills in the areas of reading, math and writing. This report reveals the student's results on more specific skills within the three main areas. Use these scores to pinpoint strengths and weaknesses.
- 6). Locate the answer key. The answer key lists correct, incorrect or omitted responses. It also rates the difficulty of individual questions. A website and an access code are on the report. Use these to find the exact questions and answers on this version of the test.
- 7). Go to the website given on the report and enter the access code where indicated. The range of possible scores for each subtest, reading, math and writing, forecasts results on the SAT test. On the website, a detailed score illustrates areas of strengths and weaknesses.
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