Skip to content
  • Solutions
    Our Services
    Admissions Committee Review
    BS/MD & Pre-Med Admissions
    Business School Admissions
    College Prep for Neurodiverse Students
    Computer Science & Engineering
    Essay Advising and Review
    Gap Year Admissions
    Graduate School Admissions
    Middle School College Prep
    Subject Tutoring
    Test Prep
    ACT Test Prep
    SAT Test Prep
    Transfer Admissions
  • About Us
    Our Story
    Our Technology
    Why Us
    Success Stories
    Contact Us
  • Programs
    AI Scholar Program
    Research Scholar Program
    Startup Internship Program
    Passion Project Program
  • Resources
    Blog
    College Insights
    Ebooks & Guides
    Empowerly Score®
    Referrals
    Webinars
    Upcoming Webinars
    Webinar Recordings
  • For Organizations
    Partnerships & Affiliates
    Empowerly for Employers
    Community Organizations
Sign In
Free Consultation
Book a Free Consultation
Login
  • Blog > Applications, Exams (ACT, AP, SAT)

Top Mistakes Sophomores Make Preparing for the PSAT

Picture of Madeleine Karydes

Madeleine Karydes

  • September 24, 2025

First, what even is the PSAT?

The Preliminary Scholastic Aptitude Test, or PSAT, is a shorter, slightly easier version of the well-known college entrance exam known as the SAT. You’ll take the PSAT digitally as a sophomore in high school, usually in October, under timed exam conditions. 

There are two main sections: Reading/Writing and Math. Both sections are scored out of 760 points, giving you a total possible score of 1520.

Why you should care about the PSAT:

If you’re a tenth-grader, the PSAT is probably the first big standardized test you’ll take with really serious stakes. While it won’t influence your GPA, the PSAT affects you in other meaningful ways. 

  • Practice for future exams: The PSAT gives you a low-pressure chance to practice for the SAT or ACT you take later.
  • Scholarship opportunities: Through the National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test (NMSQT) partnership, high scorers can earn recognition and scholarships.
  • Confidence-building: The test familiarizes you with timed conditions and helps you build test-day stamina for the future.

If you’re more of a numbers person, here’s the challenge: the average PSAT score is around 920; the top 1% score is around 1460 or higher (depending on the year). Top scorers earn national recognition, and in some cases, significant scholarship money.

Of course, you don’t need to “ace” the PSAT for it to be worthwhile. The real goal is to use it strategically. Sophomore scores help you understand what kind of prep is needed next year. In this article, we’ll look at the biggest mistakes sophomores make, and, more importantly, how you can avoid them. 

First, let’s talk about why sophomores tend to struggle with the PSAT the first time.

Why sophomores struggle with the PSAT

Sophomore year is already a busy time, and that reality shows up in PSAT prep. 

Here are some of the most common hurdles:

  • Balancing new coursework with test prep: Tenth grade often comes with harder classes. Finding extra time to study for a test that doesn’t even count towards your high school transcript can feel low-priority and get pushed off.
  • Limited exposure to standardized tests at this point: The PSAT might be one of the first national exams you’ve faced. Without experience, it’s easy to underestimate the pressure of timed conditions on test day.
  • Misunderstanding the purpose: Some students ignore it altogether, thinking the PSAT doesn’t matter. Others overinflate its importance, treating it like a final SAT. Neither approach helps you perform your best.

At Empowerly, we see sophomores underestimate the PSAT every year. These early missteps often lead to predictable mistakes. The most important shift you can make? Your mindset. Instead of treating the PSAT like a one-shot pass/fail moment of panic, think of it as: 

  • A free benchmark to see how you’re doing. 
  • A chance to practice without college consequences.
  • A smart warm-up to SAT success.

Reframing the PSAT this way consistently reduces pressure and, by extension, improves performance. Now that’s what I call a win-win.

Sophomore student studying for the PSAT to avoid making common mistakes.

Top mistakes sophomores make preparing for the PSAT

Mistakes don’t mean failure, so if you see yourself in this list, remember: they’re lessons to be learned. Let’s break down the most common ones. 

Poor pacing

All questions are weighted equally. That means a hard question is worth the same amount of points as an easy one. Students often spend too much time on one difficult question, leaving insufficient time for easier questions later in the test. Spending four minutes on a single math problem could cost you the chance to answer three questions you actually know for certain. 

Overthinking and second-guessing

Some students believe every question must have a complex answer. Others constantly change their answers, even when their first instinct was correct. Research shows that most initial answers are right, and unnecessary changes usually lower your score.

Lack of practice

Not practicing regularly can lead to test-day surprises (not the good kind). Without consistent practice, you’re more likely to run out of time, misread instructions, or spend the whole time watching the clock. 

Reading too quickly

Skimming passages might feel efficient, but it usually leads to mistakes. Many reading comprehension questions hinge on small details. Missing a keyword or phrase can completely change the meaning. 

Not prioritizing

Another mistake is answering the questions in strict order. Students who get stuck on difficult questions (like we talked about earlier) miss the opportunity to collect easy and medium points first.

Ignoring test structure

Some students assume that questions are arranged from easiest to hardest. While the digital PSAT does increase math difficulty as you progress, all questions are equally weighted. Wasting energy on “harder” problems doesn’t boost your score, unfortunately.

Focusing too much on memorization

The PSAT isn’t a trivia context. Memorizing formulas or vocabulary lists might be impressive, but it won’t replace real understanding. Success comes from applying knowledge, not stockpiling random facts.

The good news? Every one of these mistakes is preventable with the right strategies.

How to avoid these mistakes

Here’s how to sidestep the most common pitfalls:

Manage your time effectively

Use a timer during practice sessions. Train yourself to move on if a problem takes too long. Return later if time allows. Your goal is to maximize total points, not conquer every single problem. 

Trust your instincts

Unless you see clear evidence that your first answer is wrong, try to stick with it. Don’t fall into the trap of second-guessing yourself.

Practice regularly

Consistent, regular practice helps you become familiar with the test’s format and content, improving your time management and confidence.

Read carefully

Slow down on reading passages. Underline important words and phrases. Remember: comprehension beats speed. This isn’t where you should save time.

Prioritize questions

Answer easy and medium questions first. Banking those points will raise your score more efficiently than wrestling with the hardest problem.

Learn the test’s structure

Understand that in the digital PSAT, math questions increase in difficulty, but all questions have equal point values. Be ready to adjust your pacing across sections.

Utilize resources

Don’t prepare in isolation. Take advantage of free and paid resources, like online offerings, school programs, and test prep tutors, to maximize your readiness. For students who want more structured help, test prep tutors or school programs can make a difference. 

For free reading to get started, check out Empowerly’s Guide to High School Exams. It gives you a helpful primer on the big tests coming your way in the next few years. 

Why does the PSAT matter for college applications?

Let’s clear up a common myth: your PSAT scores are not sent to colleges. By the time you apply, colleges won’t know or care what you scored in 10th grade. 

So why bother? 

Because: 

  • High scores can qualify you for the National Merit Scholarship Program, which awards about 7,500 scholarships each year.
  • The PSAT sets the stage for SAT and ACT success. Students who can perform well on the PSAT tend to carry those skills into later testing.
  • Confidence matters. A good PSAT experience can reduce stress before the higher-stakes exams in junior year.

And if you totally bomb it anyway?

Don’t worry too much. You get a full reset next year. Many students score hundreds of points higher on their junior-year PSAT or the SAT itself. A “bad” sophomore PSAT score just means you now know what to focus on.

Best practices for sophomores preparing early

If you want to get ahead, here’s where to focus: 

  • Math foundations: Make sure you’re solid on algebra and problem-solving.
  • Vocabulary through reading: Regular reading builds comprehension and word familiarity naturally.
  • Consistent study habits: Even short, frequent practice beats last-minute cramming.

Balance is crucial. Don’t let PSAT prep take away from your GPA, extracurricular activities, or sleep. Admissions officers care about your whole sophomore year, not just one test.

For a helpful checklist on everything you should be doing (in addition to test prep), check out our Sophomore Student Checklist and download your copy today.

Ace your US college application with Empowerly. Book your free consultation here.

Crunch time: your emergency kit

Only seven days left to prepare for your PSAT? Here’s the emergency game plan for how to catch up to speed quickly: 

  • Day 7-6: Take one full-length digital practice test
  • Day 5-4: Review mistakes from the test, especially pacing issues
  • Day 3: Do timed practice sections (Reading + Math)
  • Day 2: Skim formulas + grammar rules; sleep on time
  • Day 1: Light review only; pack your bag, relax, and rest!

How can parents help their student prepare

Parents often wonder if they should push their child into PSAT prep classes. A better approach? Don’t make this another argument; focus on guiding, not pressuring.

Here’s how:

  • Provide structure: Help set a realistic schedule for practice.
  • Encourage without pressure: Celebrate effort, not just outcomes.
  • Invest in support resources if needed: Whether it’s a prep book, online platform, or guidance from Empowerly, the right tools can significantly reduce stress.

Quick FAQs about the PSAT

Do PSAT scores go on college apps? 

Nope. Colleges will never see your PSAT scores. The only exception is if you become a National Merit Semifinalist or Finalist, in which case you might choose to highlight that honor on your application.

What’s the difference between the PSAT and the SAT?

Both tests measure similar skills in math, reading, and writing. The main differences are: 

  • The PSAT is shorter and slightly less difficult, intended for younger students.
  • On the other hand, the SAT is used for college admissions.
  • The PSAT is only offered in high school, while you can take the SAT multiple times before applying to college if you choose.

What is a good PSAT score for sophomores?

Anything above the national average (920) shows progress. Scores above 1200 indicate strong readiness for junior year SAT/ACT testing.

How is the PSAT scored?

The PSAT uses a 320-1520 scale, combining Math and Evidence-Based Reading and Writing (each section ranges from 160-760 points).

Should sophomores study for the PSAT or focus on the SAT?

One thing at a time: start with the PSAT. It’s designed as preparation for the SAT. Building skills here will carry over naturally.

Conclusion

The PSAT won’t appear on your college applications, but how you prepare for it can shape your testing future. By steering clear of these common mistakes, you’ll build better skills that will last well beyond sophomore year. 

Think of the PSAT as both a practice round and a confidence check. The test is your opportunity to see where you stand and what to improve before the stakes get even higher.

Want more support? Book a consultation with Empowerly to continue the conversation about your testing strategy. Make sure you’re not leaving points on the table.

Book A Free Consultation

Share this post
College Internships
Picture of Madeleine Karydes

Madeleine Karydes

Related articles

Find the latest college admissions news, tips, resources and more.

Early Decision vs. Early Action: Which is Right for You?

How do you decide which is best for you? Let’s break it down to better understand your early decision and early action choices.

Top Mistakes Sophomores Make Preparing for the PSAT

Avoid common PSAT prep mistakes! Learn key strategies for high school sophomores to boost their scores and prepare for college applications.

A Student’s Guide to Booking Exams Outside of School

Empowerly is a member of:
Menu
  • Services
  • Success Stories
  • Careers
  • Become a Counselor
  • Refer a Friend
  • Book a Consult
Contact Us
  • enrollment@empowerly.com
  • 800 491 6920
  • empowerly.com
Follow Us
  • LinkedIn
  • Instagram
  • Facebook
Subscribe to our Newsletter
© 2025 Empowerly Inc | All Rights Reserved

Cookie Preferences

Terms & Conditions
Privacy Policy
Enter your email to view the webinar
Solutions
Our Services
Admissions Committee Review
BS/MD & Pre-Med Admissions
Business School Admissions
College Prep for Neurodiverse Students
Computer Science & Engineering
Essay Advising and Review
Gap Year Admissions
Graduate School Admissions
Middle School College Prep
Subject Tutoring
Test Prep
ACT Test Prep
SAT Test Prep
Transfer Admissions
About Us
Our Story
Our Technology
Why Us
Success Stories
Contact Us
Programs
AI Scholar Program
Research Scholar Program
Startup Internship Program
Resources
Blog
College Insights
Empowerly Score®
Referrals
Webinars
Upcoming Webinars
Webinar Recordings
For Organizations
Partnerships & Affiliates
Empowerly for Employers
Community Organizations
Book a Free Consultation
Login