What’s on the PSAT 8/9? – SAT Help
If you’re a parent, student, or educator preparing for the SAT down the road, one of the first steps is understanding the PSAT 8/9. This test is the entry point into the College Board’s SAT Suite of Assessments, designed for students in 8th and 9th grade. It sets the foundation for academic growth and future test success, including the SAT.
But what exactly is on the PSAT 8/9? What topics does it cover? How is it scored? And why does it matter?
In this guide, we’ll explain everything you need to know about the structure, content, and purpose of the PSAT 8/9 so you can be fully prepared.
What Is the PSAT 8/9?
The PSAT 8/9 is a standardized tWhat Is the PSAT 8/9?
The PSAT 8/9 is a standardized test given to students in the 8th or 9th grade. It’s part of the SAT Suite of Assessments, which includes:
- PSAT 8/9 (for 8th and 9th graders)
- PSAT 10 (for 10th graders)
- PSAT/NMSQT (for 10th–11th graders)
- SAT (for college admissions)
Unlike the SAT or PSAT/NMSQT, the PSAT 8/9 is not used for scholarships or college admissions. Its primary purpose is to measure what students already know and what they’re ready to learn next.
Why Take the PSAT 8/9?
Here’s why students and schools use the PSAT 8/9:
- Establish a baseline for academic readiness
- Identify strengths and areas for improvement
- Help students choose high school courses
- Track progress toward college readiness
- Prepare students for future PSATs and the SAT
By taking the PSAT 8/9 early, students gain familiarity with SAT-style questions in a low-pressure environment.
PSAT 8/9 Test Format Overview
The PSAT 8/9 is made up of two main sections:
- Reading and Writing
- Math
Each section contains multiple-choice questions, and the test is administered digitally (as of 2024).
Section 1: Reading and Writing
This section tests a student’s ability to understand, analyze, and interpret written material, as well as apply grammar rules and writing strategies.
Skills Measured:
- Reading comprehension
- Vocabulary in context
- Grammar and sentence structure
- Use of evidence
- Punctuation and usage
- Organization and clarity
Types of Passages:
- Literary (stories or excerpts from novels)
- Informational (non-fiction texts on science, history, or social studies)
- Argumentative (essays or opinion pieces)
Students read a short passage and answer a series of questions based on the content. Many questions ask students to interpret meaning, identify tone or intent, or revise a sentence to improve clarity or grammar.
Section 2: Math
The Math section measures problem-solving and critical thinking using basic algebra, arithmetic, and geometry. Calculators are allowed throughout the PSAT 8/9 Math section.
Skills Measured:
- Arithmetic and number properties
- Algebraic expressions and equations
- Linear equations and inequalities
- Ratios, proportions, and percentages
- Data analysis and statistics
- Geometry basics (area, volume, angles)
Question Types:
- Standard multiple-choice
- Grid-in (students must write in the answer)
Students should be comfortable with real-world word problems, interpreting charts, and basic algebraic manipulation.
PSAT 8/9 Test Length and Timing
The test is designed to be completed in just over two hours.
| Section | Number of Questions | Approx. Time |
|---|---|---|
| Reading & Writing | About 42 questions | 64 minutes |
| Math | About 40 questions | 70 minutes |
| Total | ~82 questions | ~2 hrs 15 min |
The pacing is generous enough for most students to finish but still requires time management skills.
Scoring the PSAT 8/9
The PSAT 8/9 uses a scaled scoring system:
- Total Score: 240–1440
- Section Scores: 120–720 (Reading & Writing and Math)
You’ll also get subscores and cross-test scores that give more detailed feedback:
- Reading, Writing, and Math test scores (on a 6–36 scale)
- Subscores (1–15 scale) in areas like:
- Expression of Ideas
- Standard English Conventions
- Problem Solving and Data Analysis
- Heart of Algebra
These scores show not just how you performed overall, but exactly where your strengths and weaknesses lie.
What Topics Are Most Common on the PSAT 8/9?
While the test varies slightly year to year, certain core topics appear consistently:
In Reading and Writing:
- Understanding author’s purpose
- Correcting run-on sentences
- Replacing vague pronouns
- Improving word choice
- Interpreting tone or attitude
- Clarifying sentence structure
In Math:
- Solving for variables in linear equations
- Understanding ratios and proportions
- Reading and analyzing graphs
- Calculating percentage increases or decreases
- Using formulas for area or volume
Students who have strong fundamentals in middle school math and English will feel more comfortable.
How to Prepare for the PSAT 8/9
Here are some tips for preparing:
- Understand the format: Familiarize yourself with how the digital test is structured and timed.
- Practice with sample questions: Review PSAT-style reading passages and math problems.
- Focus on your weaknesses: Use subscores and feedback to improve the areas where you scored lower.
- Review key academic skills: Grammar, vocabulary, basic algebra, and interpreting charts are all important.
- Build reading stamina: Practice reading longer passages and summarizing them quickly.
- Use classwork as preparation: Most of what appears on the PSAT 8/9 is taught in regular school courses.
What Happens After the PSAT 8/9?
Once you receive your scores (usually 4–6 weeks after the test), you can:
- Review the score report with a counselor or teacher
- Identify areas for growth
- Plan your next steps toward the PSAT 10 and SAT
- Track your progress year over year
- Consider advanced courses if you scored well (like honors or AP)
What’s on the PSAT 8/9? – SAT Overview
The PSAT 8/9 is more than just a practice test—it’s a powerful tool to guide students in the early stages of college readiness. By understanding what’s on the PSAT 8/9, students can feel more confident and motivated as they move forward through high school.
Whether you’re aiming for a perfect SAT score or just trying to strengthen your academic foundation, the PSAT 8/9 is a smart first step. It’s designed to support learning—not stress students out—and it gives clear feedback to help everyone grow.
Stay focused, use your results wisely, and keep moving forward. Your path to college starts here.