The PSAT was “pretty easy,” according to sophomore Miyah Brooks.  “Just one part without the calculator was hard,”Brooks said.

Another sophomore, Dylan Barnes, said, “If I could change something, I would change the amount of time for each section of the test.:  Barnes said he wanted more time on some sections and needed less time on other sections.

The Preliminary Scholastic Aptitude Test, or PSAT, is like a trial run for the SAT. Taking the test will give students a snapshot of how they might do on the SAT.

The PSAT is offered to ninth and tenth graders statewide, and Southfield High students took it April 12. The PSAT covers four subjects over three tests: reading, writing, language and mathematics.

The reading section lasts 60 minutes, and has 47 questions.

The writing and language test is 35 minutes long, and has 44 questions.

Lastly, the mathematics exam is taken in two sections. The first section is done without a calculator, and is 25 minutes long with 17 questions, and the second section allows the use of a calculator and consists of 31 questions, and lasts 45 minutes. The entire exam lasts 2 hours and 45 minutes.

The PSAT is more than just a test. It can predict which colleges a student can get into, and it can possibly determine a student’s major, so preparation is essential. Studying beforehand, and familiarizing yourself with the test contents and requirements are good ways to prepare, according to Testing Coordinator Kara Shuell.

For more information on the PSAT and the SAT, see Shuell in room B204 or visit collegeboard.org.