User-Friendly PSAT and SAT Prep Tip Sheets for the Reading and Writing Sections

January 2024 -- The test has completely changed. Again. It's all online. I haven't updated this document yet so be advised that the information about formatting is no longer accurate. I'm not even sure if the same skills are going to be assessed. I need to revise this; in the meantime, use the College Board website for guidance.

Old entry -- I have been working as a tutor and test prep instructor for over 15 years and have been modifying this informational packet since the new test emerged in 2005. I tried to remove the version for the 2005-2016 version of the test; it's still useful, but I recommend focusing on the "A Few Words..." document that I updated for the 2016 test revision. The test has completely changed, and the essay information on the older document is way off for what you need to do now. I'll need to update that info.

No practice questions are included. I recommend that you check out The College Board website for free versions of the practice tests or pick up their book, which runs around $20.

This packet is intended to guide both a tutor and his/her student through the test in a methodical and mildly humorous way. I love helping kids with this test and really do think it's loads of fun -- hope you agree. The copyright is through my former LLC, The Artful Scribe (sadly the Scribe had to shut it down when I joined administration). Enjoy!