How the PSAT 10 Is Structured: A Complete Overview

The PSAT 10 is a standardized test designed to give 10th-grade students a practice run for the SAT and a chance to assess their academic skills in reading, writing, and math. Understanding how the test is structured can help students prepare more effectively and manage their time on test day.

Test Sections and Timing

The PSAT 10 consists of three main sections:

  • Reading: This section tests your ability to understand and analyze written passages from literature, history, social studies, and science. It includes multiple-choice questions that ask you to interpret and draw conclusions from the texts.
  • Writing and Language: This section focuses on grammar, punctuation, sentence structure, and editing skills. You’ll answer multiple-choice questions that require you to improve or correct written passages.
  • Math: The math section is divided into two parts — one that allows the use of a calculator and one that does not. Questions cover algebra, problem-solving, data analysis, and some advanced math topics like trigonometry.

Timing Breakdown

The total test time is approximately 2 hours and 45 minutes, divided as follows:

  • Reading: 47 minutes
  • Writing and Language: 35 minutes
  • Math (No Calculator): 25 minutes
  • Math (Calculator Allowed): 45 minutes

There are also short breaks between sections.

Number and Types of Questions

  • Reading Section: About 47 multiple-choice questions based on several passages.
  • Writing and Language: Approximately 44 multiple-choice questions.
  • Math Section: Around 48 questions total, split between calculator and no-calculator parts, including multiple-choice and student-produced response questions (grid-ins).

Scoring

  • Each section is scored on a scale of 160 to 760.
  • The total score ranges from 320 to 1520.
  • You’ll also receive subscores and cross-test scores that provide insights into specific skills like command of evidence and problem-solving.

Why Knowing the Structure Helps

Understanding the format and timing allows you to:

  • Practice pacing yourself for each section
  • Focus your preparation on specific question types
  • Reduce test-day anxiety by knowing what to expect