Feeling stressed for the PSAT coming up on October 15? Don’t panic. There are over 3.6 million students who take the PSAT each year, and most of them feel the same way. Here’s some background information and tips that can help you improve your scores.

First off, what’s the difference between the PSAT and the SAT? Ultimately, the PSAT is meant to prepare you for the SAT. The tests are very similar; however, most students would agree that the SAT is much harder, longer, and really tests endurance. The PSAT, like the SAT, assesses three major skills that are essential for success in college: critical reading, writing, and math. There are two 25 minute critical reading sections, one 30 minute writing section, and two 25 minute math sections. The entire PSAT takes 2 hours and 10 minutes to complete. However, before you think this is impossible, the SAT is even longer- taking 3 hours and 45 minutes to complete. When you’re taking the test, it might help to think about how lucky you are to not actually be taking the real SAT. Remember, this is just for practice!

Before taking the PSAT, it is a good idea to complete the packet administered by Guidance. It will give you an idea of how long the test is, and what kind of questions you’ll be expected to solve. Additionally, make sure you check your answers and look over any problems you got wrong. Make sure you fully understand why you got the question wrong. Also, read through the packet and review any math formulas, grammar rules, and reading strategies that might be useful. For the math section, it is important to know that you don’t have to re-memorize every formula you’ve ever learned in math class. The test will give you the equations you need to know before each section. . If you’ve finished the PSAT packet, and you’re still looking for additional practice, try downloading the College Board’s official “SAT QOTD” app. Remember, you don’t have to hire a tutor or buy a book for the PSAT; but in the long run, it will help you with the SAT.

Lastly, I can’t stress enough how important it is to get a good night’s sleep and eat a healthy breakfast before the test. Our minds perform best when we have had at least eight hours of sleep, and we need energy to think critically. Here are some final do’s and don’ts: don’t waste too much time on easy or difficult questions, don’t worry if you don’t know the answer, and don’t put too much pressure on yourself. Do prepare, be mindful of the clock, and make educated guesses. Most importantly, stay focused. Juniors, you can qualify to win national recognition. Stick it out for just 2 hours and 10 minutes. Good luck everyone!