Which PSAT prep book is best?
No one likes taking tests, especially tests as difficult and important as the Preliminary Scholastic Aptitude Test. This test both prepares students for the actual SAT and acts as a qualifier for the National Merit Scholarship. A good PSAT prep book not only prepares students for the test but also helps them develop a study plan, which can decrease their test anxiety. The best PSAT prep book is the Princeton Review PSAT/NMSQT Prep, 2025. It includes three practice tests (one in the book, two online), several math drills and detailed explanations for the answers to ensure maximum understanding.
What to know before you buy a PSAT prep book
Sections of the PSAT and what they measure
The PSAT has two separate sections whose scores combine to produce your total PSAT exam score: math and reading and writing. Each section will have two subsections, called “modules.”
- Math: The math section tests the student on a variety of types of math, from algebra to data equations and even more advanced mathematics. This section aims to assess students’ ability to solve problems and their understanding of mathematical concepts.
- Reading & Writing: The reading section examines students’ ability to comprehend things they read and use concepts in writing. It measures the student’s capacity to understand how language is used and their proficiency in interpreting given information. They’ll be tested on forming well-supported arguments, writing in a clear and effective style and using proper sentence structure.
Recent PSAT changes
Since the fall of 2023, the PSAT has been offered only in a digital format. The paper PSAT is no longer an option. It has also been condensed into a shorter test, now only taking 2 hours and 14 minutes. The digital test also includes built-in tools, such as a graphing calculator, text annotation, a timer, a zooming tool and the ability to cross out answer choices. However, you can still use your own graphing calculator if you’d like. While the PSAT is administered on a computer, you still have to go to your local high school to take the test.
What to look for in a quality PSAT prep book
Studying and test-taking strategies
Not everyone has good study habits, and most students have different studying styles. A good PSAT prep book should offer helpful guidance for all levels and types of test-takers. It should also give users test-taking strategies and provide ample practice opportunities.
Drills
PSAT prep books may contain drills, although not all have them and some only have them for certain sections. They usually contain questions found in PSAT exams to help students improve their understanding in areas where they struggle.
Answers and explanations
For practice tests and drills to be useful, the book must explain answers to help students understand where they might have gone wrong. Make sure your PSAT prep book has detailed explanations of its practice tests and drill answers to deepen your understanding.
How much you can expect to spend on a PSAT prep book
Basic PSAT prep books can cost as little as $15 or less, but you can spend up to $50 for in-depth prep books with multiple practice tests.
PSAT prep book FAQ
When is the PSAT offered in 2025?
A. The PSAT is administered every year in October. This year, the PSAT will be offered between Oct. 1 and Oct. 31, with a Saturday option on Oct. 11. However, the exact dates in your area depend on which date your local high school chooses to administer the test. If you’re a homeschooler, you can still take the PSAT, but you’ll need to sign up through your local high school.
I don’t need to take the PSAT for a year or two. What can I do now to get ready?
A. One of the best ways to prepare is to purchase a few different PSAT prep books and make your way through them, as each one can contain different questions and have varying levels of difficulty. You might incrementally improve your chances simply by engaging in your classes, asking questions if you don’t understand, doing your homework and studying for quizzes and tests.
Are the practice tests in PSAT prep books really that important?
A. They can be. Taking the practice tests can prepare you for how the real test will go and help you understand the areas of the exam on which you should focus your studying. It also may help lower test anxiety.
What’s the best PSAT prep book to buy?
Top PSAT prep book
Princeton Review PSAT/NMSQT Prep, 2025
What you need to know: The Princeton Review makes a fantastic all-around PSAT prep book to cover your studying needs.
What you’ll love: Three practice tests and several math drills give students plenty of preparation.
What you should consider: This isn’t the right PSAT prep book for last-second cramming sessions, because it’s much too large.
Top PSAT prep book for the money
Barron’s PSAT/NMSQT Study Guide Premium, 2025
What you need to know: If you’ve taken the PSAT before and are trying to raise your scores in a specific area, this is the PSAT prep book for you.
What you’ll love: It contains two full-length practice tests and 200 online practice drills.
What you should consider: Barron’s book provides more of an overview of the test rather than an in-depth guide.
Worth checking out
What you need to know: This PSAT prep book is comprehensive and provides ample practice.
What you’ll love: Detailed explanations of the answers for practice test questions increase understanding of key concepts.
What you should consider: The high level of detail may overwhelm certain students.
Prices listed reflect time and date of publication and are subject to change.
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