The New PSAT is a Game-Changer
The shift to the digital PSAT in 2023 marked a significant change for high school students, although students are now accustomed to such changes in a digital world. Nevertheless, this digital PSAT test comes with added features, raising the question: Is the PSAT an adaptive test? The answer is yes, and in this blog, we’ll dive into exactly what makes this test unique and its distinction from traditional exams. We’ll demystify PSAT adaptive testing, offer practical advice, and suggest the best PSAT prep course, as the PSAT is a crucial stepping stone toward college entrance exams. Our overall goal is to achieve a better understanding of the test, enabling students to achieve a high score and qualify for National Merit Scholarships.
Understanding the Adaptive Model
MST, what could that possibly stand for? Many Students Transcend? Well, we hope so! The official acronym stands for Multistage Adaptive Testing, which is what the PSAT uses. How does the PSAT adaptive test work, exactly? Each test section is divided into two equal-length, separately timed stages, each composed of a module of questions.
The first module contains a range of easy, medium, and complex questions, in which students demonstrate their skills before continuing to the second module.
The second module’s question levels are based on how the students perform in the first module; in general, questions are either more difficult or less complex than those in the first module. In other words, the test “adapts,” presenting questions more appropriate to a student’s performance level. This type of format is what makes the PSAT adaptive testing exam. PSAT scoring is based on performance across both modules, which ultimately affects standardized test scores. The method yields shorter, more efficient tests, offering a personalized assessment experience for each student.
The Psychology of the Test: Mindset Matters for PSAT Adaptive Testing
- Debunk the myth: Remind students that seeing more complex questions is a positive sign, not a negative one.
- Emphasize mindset: Encourage students not to get discouraged by challenging questions in Module 2. They can practice this mindset by engaging in high school test prep.
- Provide a key strategy: Advise students to prioritize accuracy over speed in the early stages, especially in Module 1.
Bluebook Testing Details
The PSAT/NMSQT is delivered digitally via the Bluebook testing application. Students take the exam by connecting their approved device (or a school-provided device) to the internet at the school testing site.
The Bluebook App
Designed to enhance students’ test-taking experience, the app includes the following features:
- Text highlighting and annotation (in the Reading and Writing section)
- A built-in calculator with graphing capabilities (available in the entire Math section)
- Question previewing
- Question flagging for revisiting/reviewing as time permits
- Answer choice elimination
- A list of standard math formulas
- A module timer with a “5 minutes remaining” alarm
The Bluebook Testing Application
The PSAT/NMSQT is delivered via Bluebook, a test delivery application that students will need to download onto their device before test day. Bluebook is designed to enhance students’ test-taking experience:
- In the Reading and Writing section, students can highlight and annotate text.
- A built-in graphing calculator is available throughout the entire Math section.
- Students can navigate freely through a given module to preview upcoming questions.
- A clock counts down the time remaining in each module. If a student chooses to hide the timer, an alert sounds when 5 minutes remain in the module.
- Students can mark and return to an earlier question within a module as time permits.
- Students can use the interface to eliminate answer choices that they think are wrong.
- Students have access to a list of standard formulas in the Math section.
Bluebook is designed to withstand internet outages, so if any internet connection interruption occurs during testing, students can continue taking the test without disruption. If their computer battery runs down, they can simply plug in, restart their device, and pick up where they left off—their work will be saved, and they won’t lose any testing time.
Practical Strategies for Student Success on the Digital PSAT
- Practice with the right tools: Encourage use of an adaptive PSAT practice test so students get a feel for the format and pacing. Find explanations of MST testing, PSAT digital practice test, instructional videos, flashcards, interactive lessons, and detailed answer explanations online with Peterson’s PSAT prep.
- Address timing: Let students know how long is the digital PSAT (2 hours and 14 minutes) to help them manage their time effectively.
- Suggest structured preparation: A PSAT prep course, specifically digital PSAT prep, is instrumental in building confidence with the MST testing format and keeping students accountable to progress. The best PSAT prep course will focus on strategies tailored to an adaptive format and encourage data-driven instruction.
Beyond PSAT Adaptive Testing and a PSAT Prep Course
An adaptive PSAT test model requires a fresh mindset and test preparation materials. With the digital format, continually remind students that preparation and strategy can turn this test type into an advantage, enabling them to outperform their peers with proper planning. Remember, the PSAT is not just another test; it’s valuable practice for the digital SAT and an essential step toward securing a high score on their desired entrance exam for colleges, with potential for becoming a National Merit Scholar. Request More Information to ensure your students’ high scores on the digital PSAT today!
