The PSAT and ACT might sound like alphabet soup, but they are actually your ticket to college and scholarships. When people talk about these tests, you may immediately feel overwhelmed, but don’t stress! Here is some information about both tests that are provided at West Lauderdale for high school students.

The PSAT, or Preliminary Scholastic Assessment Test, is provided in October typically for juniors, but provided for some sophomores as well. It is also known as a National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test. This test is a digital practice version of the SAT. You are probably asking yourself, “Why should I even take this test?”

Here are a few reasons why you should take the PSAT. This test will give you feedback on your strengths and weaknesses. You can potentially qualify for the National Merit Scholarship Program, depending on your score. It may also look very well on your resume for future job applications.

The PSAT has two main sections, a reading and writing portion and math portion. In each section of the test you will have two modules. After you complete the first module, the test adjusts question difficulty based on how well you do in the first module. You can make a total score of 320-1520. The reading and writing section focuses on testing reading comprehension, grammar, and editing skills. The questions are based on passages and it includes vocabulary in context and writing mechanics. While the math section focuses on testing algebra, problem solving, and data analysis. It includes both multiple choice and grid-in (student-produced) answers. You may also use a calculator for the entire math section on the PSAT.

Here are some steps you can take to prepare for the PSAT. Practice with free official tests on Khan Academy. Review key grammar, algebra, and reading strategies and take practice tests to get used to timing and question style.

The ACT, or American College Testing, is a college entrance exam used by most American colleges and universities for admissions and scholarships. This test measures what you have learned in high school and how ready you are for college-level work. This test is typically taken by juniors and seniors, but offered for sophomores and freshmen as well. There are four main sections, including English, Math, Reading, and Science. There is also an optional writing section. The test usually lasts a total of 2 hours and 55 minutes. This test is typically taken digitally and all questions are multiple choice. You will have a composite score averaging the four main sections. You can score up to a 36.

These are some reasons why you should take the PSAT. This test is used for college admissions. It also helps you qualify for scholarships and shows your academic readiness for college. Lily Woodall, a senior at West Lauderdale, qualified for one of these scholarships which landed her a full-ride to the University of Mississippi. She stated, “I hope to use it well and use the advantage to productively progress through adult life and not take for granted what I worked for.”

You can take these steps to prepare for the ACT. You can take practice tests from ACT.org. Focus on time management during the test. Review grammar rules, math formulas, and reading comprehension strategies. Use prep books or online tools like Khan Academy or Varsity Tutors.

Ultimately, the PSAT and ACT are important to your academic success. They are both great opportunities to get you prepped and ready for college. While the ACT is more widely known and used, many colleges accept either the ACT or PSAT. So when test day comes, take the test seriously, do not stress, try your best, and ace the test!