The method of figuring out the Preliminary SAT/Nationwide Benefit Scholarship Qualifying Take a look at (PSAT/NMSQT) end result includes a standardized scoring system. Uncooked scores, derived from the variety of appropriately answered questions, are transformed to scaled scores for every part: Math, Proof-Primarily based Studying, and Proof-Primarily based Writing. These scaled part scores are then summed to supply the composite rating. This composite rating is what determines eligibility for Nationwide Benefit Scholarship consideration and gives a sign of faculty readiness, notably concerning the SAT.
Understanding the scoring mechanism permits college students to gauge their efficiency, establish strengths and weaknesses, and focus preparation efforts accordingly. The PSAT serves as a beneficial diagnostic software, affording college students the chance to familiarize themselves with the SAT’s format and content material underneath timed circumstances. A robust efficiency can unlock scholarship alternatives and supply a aggressive edge within the school utility course of.
The next sections will element the nuances of the scoring system, together with the particular rating ranges for every part and the composite rating, together with pointers for deciphering the outcomes. Moreover, assets and instruments out there to help in comprehending the rating report will probably be highlighted.
1. Uncooked rating conversion
Uncooked rating conversion kinds the preliminary and essential step within the calculation of the PSAT/NMSQT rating. The uncooked rating, outlined because the variety of questions answered appropriately, gives the foundational information for figuring out a scholar’s efficiency. With out this preliminary tally, additional calculation and evaluation could be unimaginable. As an illustration, if a scholar solutions 45 questions appropriately within the Math part, 45 turns into the preliminary uncooked rating topic to conversion. The conversion course of adjusts for slight variations in check issue throughout administrations, guaranteeing equity and comparability. Due to this fact, the calculation of the ultimate PSAT rating hinges straight on this correct accounting of appropriate solutions.
The conversion course of employs pre-established tables that map uncooked scores to scaled scores. These tables are distinctive to every check administration to account for variations in issue. Understanding this course of permits college students to understand that enhancing the uncooked rating straight interprets into a better scaled rating. By concentrating on particular areas of weak point and growing the variety of appropriate solutions, college students can positively affect their last rating. The School Board gives pattern rating experiences and follow assessments that supply insights into how uncooked scores convert to scaled scores underneath particular check circumstances.
In abstract, uncooked rating conversion acts because the important first step in figuring out the PSAT/NMSQT rating. Correct uncooked scores are indispensable for subsequent scaling, guaranteeing equity and comparability. Familiarity with this conversion course of empowers college students to prioritize areas for enchancment, straight influencing their potential efficiency on the examination. The understanding of this seemingly easy step is paramount to successfully navigating the complexities of the scoring system.
2. Scaled part scores
Scaled part scores signify a essential juncture in understanding how the PSAT/NMSQT rating is calculated. Following the willpower of uncooked scores, these scaled scores present a standardized metric for evaluating efficiency on every particular person part of the check.
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Standardization and Comparability
Scaled scores guarantee comparability throughout completely different check administrations by accounting for variations in check issue. Uncooked scores are transformed to a constant scale, mitigating the impression of probably simpler or tougher check kinds. This allows college students to check their efficiency throughout completely different PSAT administrations and observe progress objectively. For instance, a uncooked rating of 40 on the Math part in a single check administration may translate to a scaled rating of 600, whereas the identical uncooked rating in one other administration may yield a barely completely different scaled rating as a consequence of slight variations in check issue.
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Part-Particular Efficiency Metric
The PSAT/NMSQT experiences scaled scores for every of the three sections: Math, Proof-Primarily based Studying, and Proof-Primarily based Writing. Every part is scored on a scale starting from 200 to 800. These scores present an in depth breakdown of efficiency in every ability space, permitting college students to establish strengths and weaknesses. A scholar who receives a scaled rating of 700 on the Math part demonstrates a better stage of proficiency in mathematical ideas in comparison with a scholar who receives a rating of 500.
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Contribution to the Composite Rating
Scaled part scores kind the inspiration for the composite rating, which is the sum of the scaled scores from the Math, Proof-Primarily based Studying, and Proof-Primarily based Writing sections. The composite rating is the first metric used to find out eligibility for Nationwide Benefit Scholarship consideration. Due to this fact, a scholar’s efficiency on every part, as mirrored within the scaled rating, straight impacts their total rating and potential scholarship alternatives. As an illustration, a scholar with persistently excessive scaled scores throughout all three sections is extra prone to obtain a excessive composite rating and qualify for Nationwide Benefit recognition.
In summation, scaled part scores are important for understanding how a scholar’s uncooked efficiency interprets right into a standardized metric for evaluating expertise in Math, Proof-Primarily based Studying, and Proof-Primarily based Writing. These scores present beneficial insights into particular person strengths and weaknesses, whereas additionally forming the idea for the composite rating, which is paramount for scholarship eligibility. Inspecting scaled part scores is integral to a complete understanding of PSAT/NMSQT efficiency.
3. Composite rating vary
The composite rating vary represents a basic facet of how the PSAT/NMSQT result’s decided, straight influencing Nationwide Benefit Scholarship eligibility and school readiness indicators. The composite rating, calculated by summing the scaled scores from the Math, Proof-Primarily based Studying, and Proof-Primarily based Writing sections, resides inside an outlined vary. Understanding this vary is paramount for deciphering particular person efficiency and gauging competitiveness for varied tutorial alternatives. As an illustration, the whole attainable rating vary spans from 320 to 1520, derived from part scores starting from 160 to 760 for every part. A composite rating inside the higher percentiles of this vary signifies a better stage of educational preparedness and an elevated chance of qualifying for Nationwide Benefit recognition.
The composite rating vary serves as a benchmark in opposition to which particular person outcomes are evaluated. College students can use their composite rating to check their efficiency in opposition to nationwide averages and percentile rankings, offering context for his or her total achievement. Moreover, school admission officers usually contemplate the composite rating as a predictor of success in greater training. A scholar attaining a composite rating of 1400, falling inside the prime 1% nationally, demonstrates a robust tutorial profile, which might considerably improve their school utility. Equally, understanding the rating vary permits for setting real looking objectives and figuring out areas for enchancment throughout check preparation. If a scholar’s preliminary composite rating is 1200, concentrating on a rating inside the 1300-1400 vary turns into a tangible goal, achievable by way of centered examine and follow.
In essence, the composite rating vary gives the framework for deciphering the whole thing of PSAT/NMSQT efficiency. It transforms particular person part scores right into a holistic evaluation of educational aptitude. Familiarity with the rating vary, together with its implications for Nationwide Benefit eligibility and school readiness, empowers college students to successfully strategize their preparation, consider their outcomes precisely, and maximize their alternatives for tutorial success. The problem lies in translating this understanding into actionable steps, comparable to focused follow and centered examine, to maximise efficiency inside the given scoring construction.
4. Math part weighting
The mathematical part’s contribution to the general PSAT/NMSQT end result is an important part of understanding the ultimate rating. This part’s weighting considerably influences the composite rating and, subsequently, eligibility for Nationwide Benefit Scholarship consideration. Understanding how the Math part impacts the whole rating is paramount for efficient check preparation and strategic allocation of examine time.
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Proportional Contribution to Composite Rating
The Math part, alongside Proof-Primarily based Studying and Writing, contributes equally to the composite rating. As every part is scored on a scale of 200-800, the Math part accounts for one-third of the ultimate composite rating vary (320-1520). The next rating within the Math part straight interprets to a proportionally greater composite rating. As an illustration, a rise of fifty factors within the Math part rating will increase the composite rating by the identical quantity, assuming the scores in different sections stay fixed. This direct affect underscores the significance of centered preparation on mathematical ideas and expertise.
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Influence on Nationwide Benefit Eligibility
Nationwide Benefit Scholarship eligibility is decided by the Choice Index rating, a formulation incorporating the sum of the Proof-Primarily based Studying, Proof-Primarily based Writing and Language, and Math part scores. A stronger efficiency within the Math part straight contributes to a better Choice Index rating, enhancing the possibilities of qualifying for the Nationwide Benefit Scholarship program. States usually have various cutoff scores for Nationwide Benefit recognition; due to this fact, maximizing the Math part rating turns into notably essential in states with greater qualifying thresholds. For instance, a scholar aiming for Nationwide Benefit Semifinalist standing in a aggressive state must safe a excessive rating in all sections, with the Math part rating contributing considerably to the ultimate qualifying rating.
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Strategic Take a look at Preparation
The numerous weight given to the Math part within the total rating calculation ought to inform check preparation methods. College students ought to allocate examine time proportionally to their strengths and weaknesses throughout all sections, however a devoted deal with mathematical ideas and problem-solving expertise is essential. Figuring out particular areas of weak point inside the Math part, comparable to algebra, geometry, or information evaluation, permits for focused follow and enchancment. Using follow assessments and reviewing basic mathematical ideas can improve efficiency and optimize the ultimate rating. Prioritizing these areas ensures college students maximize their potential inside this essential part of the PSAT/NMSQT.
The Math part weighting, due to this fact, has a tangible impression on the whole end result. Understanding its proportional contribution and affect on Nationwide Benefit eligibility permits college students to tailor their preparation successfully and strategically enhance their total rating, in the end enhancing their tutorial alternatives.
5. Proof-Primarily based Studying weighting
The Proof-Primarily based Studying part weighting constitutes a big issue within the PSAT/NMSQT scoring course of. Its proportional contribution straight influences the composite rating, consequently impacting eligibility for Nationwide Benefit Scholarship consideration and offering insights into school readiness. The weighting assigned to this part is equal to that of the Math and Writing sections; due to this fact, efficiency on the Proof-Primarily based Studying part straight correlates with the ultimate end result. As an illustration, an improved rating within the Proof-Primarily based Studying part, with out modifications within the different sections, leads to a proportional improve within the composite rating, thereby elevating the scholar’s total standing. Neglecting the significance of this part’s weighting can lead to an underestimation of its impression on the ultimate end result.
Understanding the Proof-Primarily based Studying part weighting permits for strategic useful resource allocation throughout check preparation. College students can prioritize centered follow on studying comprehension expertise, vocabulary improvement, and important evaluation strategies to maximise their efficiency on this part. The target evaluation of studying proficiency is essential for figuring out total tutorial aptitude. The equal weighting emphasizes the significance of balanced preparation throughout all three sections. A hypothetical scholar who excels in math however struggles with studying comprehension may even see their composite rating restricted because of the comparatively decrease efficiency within the Proof-Primarily based Studying part, underscoring the necessity for focused enchancment on this space. School admissions officers make the most of scores within the Proof-Primarily based Studying part as an indicator of a scholar’s skill to understand complicated texts, an important ability for fulfillment in greater training.
In abstract, the Proof-Primarily based Studying part weighting represents a essential component within the PSAT/NMSQT scoring framework. Its direct impression on the composite rating and subsequent scholarship alternatives emphasizes the significance of devoted preparation and strategic deal with studying comprehension expertise. Recognizing and accounting for this weighting permits college students to optimize their efficiency and maximize their potential for tutorial recognition and school admission. The problem lies in growing focused methods for enchancment, translating this understanding into tangible beneficial properties on the check.
6. Writing part weighting
The Writing and Language part rating constitutes a vital part within the calculation of the PSAT/NMSQT rating. Its weighting, equal to that of the Math and Proof-Primarily based Studying sections, straight impacts the composite rating, subsequently influencing Nationwide Benefit Scholarship eligibility and serving as an indicator of faculty readiness. This weighting signifies that enchancment within the Writing and Language part yields a proportional improve within the composite rating. For instance, a rise of fifty factors within the Writing and Language part, with out modifications within the different sections, will straight increase the composite rating by 50 factors. This direct correlation underscores the significance of centered preparation on writing and language expertise to realize optimum outcomes.
Understanding the Writing and Language part weighting permits for strategic check preparation. College students can allocate examine time and assets to strengthen grammar, utilization, and rhetorical expertise, concentrating on particular areas of weak point recognized by way of follow assessments. The rating from this part displays a scholar’s skill to revise and edit textual content, establish and proper errors in grammar and punctuation, and enhance the readability and coherence of writing. School admissions officers usually view sturdy efficiency on this part as proof of a scholar’s communication expertise, a essential attribute for fulfillment in greater training. Contemplate a state of affairs the place a scholar excels in math however reveals weaknesses in writing; their total composite rating, and potential scholarship eligibility, could also be restricted by the decrease Writing and Language part rating. This underscores the necessity for a balanced method to check preparation.
In conclusion, the Writing and Language part weighting is an integral component in figuring out the PSAT/NMSQT end result. Its vital impression on the composite rating and subsequent alternatives necessitates centered preparation and strategic ability improvement. By recognizing and addressing weaknesses in writing and language expertise, college students can optimize their efficiency and maximize their potential for tutorial success. The problem lies in figuring out and implementing efficient methods for enchancment, translating this understanding into tangible beneficial properties on the examination, thereby highlighting the inseparable hyperlink between weighting and the ultimate rating calculation.
7. Nationwide Benefit eligibility
Nationwide Benefit Scholarship eligibility is intrinsically linked to the scoring mechanism of the PSAT/NMSQT. The examination serves because the qualifying check for entry into the Nationwide Benefit Scholarship Program, the place efficiency straight determines a scholar’s potential for recognition and monetary awards.
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Choice Index Rating
The Choice Index, calculated by doubling the sum of the Proof-Primarily based Studying and Writing part rating and including the Math part rating, is the first determinant of Nationwide Benefit eligibility. This weighted calculation emphasizes verbal reasoning expertise along with mathematical proficiency. For instance, a scholar with scaled scores of 700 on Proof-Primarily based Studying and Writing and 680 on Math would have a Choice Index of (70+70+68)*2 = 416. Cutoff scores for Semifinalist standing range by state and are usually introduced the next yr. The next Choice Index rating will increase the chance of attaining Semifinalist standing.
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State-Particular Cutoffs
Eligibility standards for Nationwide Benefit recognition differ throughout states, with every state establishing its personal cutoff rating primarily based on the efficiency of its test-takers. This variation implies that the identical Choice Index rating might qualify a scholar in a single state however not in one other. Due to this fact, college students ought to analysis the historic cutoff scores for his or her particular state to set real looking objectives. A scholar in a state with a traditionally excessive cutoff rating, comparable to Massachusetts or New Jersey, might have a Choice Index rating exceeding 220 to qualify as a Semifinalist.
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Semifinalist, Finalist, and Scholarship Recipient Standing
Attaining Semifinalist standing relies on assembly or exceeding the state’s cutoff rating. Semifinalists then apply for Finalist standing, which requires submitting an utility detailing tutorial achievements, extracurricular actions, and management roles. Scholarship recipients are chosen from the Finalist pool primarily based on tutorial document, demonstrated management and contributions, and an essay. Even reaching Semifinalist standing, nevertheless, doesn’t assure Finalist or Scholarship Recipient standing.
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Rating Interpretation and Enchancment Methods
Understanding the scoring technique of the PSAT/NMSQT permits college students to establish their strengths and weaknesses and tailor their preparation accordingly. Specializing in areas the place the scholar can enhance their scaled scores, comparable to grammar guidelines for the Writing part or particular mathematical ideas, can result in a better Choice Index rating. Moreover, familiarizing oneself with the check format and training underneath timed circumstances can enhance effectivity and accuracy. Persistently analyzing areas of weak point and addressing them strategically is essential for maximizing the Choice Index rating and enhancing Nationwide Benefit eligibility.
Finally, the method of figuring out the PSAT/NMSQT rating straight impacts the potential for Nationwide Benefit recognition. Understanding the Choice Index calculation, state-specific cutoff scores, and the development by way of Semifinalist, Finalist, and Scholarship Recipient statuses permits college students to strategically method check preparation and maximize their alternatives inside the Nationwide Benefit Scholarship Program.
8. Rating report interpretation
Rating report interpretation is inextricably linked to understanding how the PSAT/NMSQT rating is calculated. The rating report presents the fruits of the scoring course of, providing an in depth breakdown of efficiency throughout varied sections and subscores. A complete grasp of rating report interpretation necessitates an understanding of the underlying mathematical framework governing rating technology. As an illustration, the report shows scaled scores for Math, Proof-Primarily based Studying, and Writing and Language. The person’s skill to discern the connection between the variety of appropriate solutions (uncooked rating), the conversion to scaled scores, and the final word composite rating straight influences comprehension of non-public strengths and weaknesses. With out this understanding, the rating report turns into a group of numbers devoid of actionable insights. A scholar may even see a low rating within the Math part however fail to acknowledge that focused follow in algebra, as revealed by the subscores, may considerably enhance the general composite rating.
The sensible significance of rating report interpretation extends to strategic check preparation and knowledgeable decision-making concerning school functions. The report gives percentile rankings, permitting college students to check their efficiency in opposition to nationwide benchmarks and gauge their competitiveness for Nationwide Benefit Scholarship consideration. Faculties make the most of PSAT/NMSQT scores as an indicator of faculty readiness. By analyzing the rating report, college students can establish areas requiring additional improvement and tailor their examine plans accordingly. A scholar may uncover a disparity between their Math and Studying scores, prompting them to allocate extra time to studying comprehension workouts or vocabulary constructing. Understanding the rating report additionally informs selections concerning SAT/ACT preparation, enabling college students to deal with particular ability areas assessed on these standardized assessments. It is usually of nice help to establish the areas for enchancment which can permit the particular person to raised his or her rating to realize his or her objectives.
In conclusion, rating report interpretation serves because the gateway to understanding the complexities of the PSAT/NMSQT scoring system. Its efficient use necessitates an understanding of how the ultimate scores are calculated, enabling college students to translate uncooked information into actionable methods for enchancment. Challenges come up when college students fail to attach the numbers on the report back to the underlying expertise and content material assessed, hindering efficient check preparation. By mastering rating report interpretation, college students can unlock the complete potential of the PSAT/NMSQT as a diagnostic software and a pathway to tutorial alternatives.
Steadily Requested Questions Concerning PSAT/NMSQT Rating Computation
The next elucidates frequent inquiries regarding the methodology employed to find out the Preliminary SAT/Nationwide Benefit Scholarship Qualifying Take a look at (PSAT/NMSQT) outcomes.
Query 1: What constitutes the preliminary step in deriving the ultimate PSAT/NMSQT rating?
The preliminary step includes figuring out the uncooked rating. This represents the variety of questions answered appropriately inside every part of the examination. The uncooked rating subsequently undergoes a conversion course of to yield scaled scores.
Query 2: What are scaled scores and what position do they play within the last calculation?
Scaled scores signify a standardized metric for evaluating efficiency on particular person sections of the check. Uncooked scores are transformed into scaled scores to make sure comparability throughout completely different check administrations. These scaled scores are summed to find out the composite rating.
Query 3: What’s the vary of the composite rating, and what does this rating signify?
The composite rating vary spans from 320 to 1520. This rating represents the sum of the scaled scores from the Math, Proof-Primarily based Studying, and Proof-Primarily based Writing sections. The composite rating is a key think about figuring out eligibility for Nationwide Benefit Scholarship consideration.
Query 4: Do all sections of the PSAT/NMSQT contribute equally to the composite rating?
Sure, every sectionMath, Proof-Primarily based Studying, and Writing and Languagecontributes equally to the composite rating. Every part is scored on a scale of 200 to 800, with its rating straight including to the general composite rating.
Query 5: How does the PSAT/NMSQT rating affect Nationwide Benefit Scholarship eligibility?
Nationwide Benefit Scholarship eligibility is straight tied to the Choice Index rating, which is derived from the PSAT/NMSQT scores. College students exceeding predetermined cutoff scores, which range by state, might qualify for Semifinalist standing and subsequent alternatives inside the Nationwide Benefit Scholarship Program.
Query 6: The place can one discover complete details about particular person efficiency on the PSAT/NMSQT?
Detailed efficiency data is offered inside the rating report. The rating report gives scaled scores, percentile rankings, and subscores, enabling college students to establish strengths, weaknesses, and areas for focused enchancment.
Understanding the methodology behind PSAT/NMSQT rating computation is essential for efficient check preparation and knowledgeable interpretation of outcomes. The insights offered by the rating report, mixed with information of the scoring system, can empower college students to maximise their potential and pursue tutorial alternatives.
The next sections will delve into further methods for check preparation and rating enchancment.
Navigating the PSAT/NMSQT Scoring Panorama
Optimizing efficiency on the PSAT/NMSQT requires a strategic understanding of its scoring system. The next suggestions present actionable insights into leveraging the “how do you calculate your psat rating” ideas for enchancment.
Tip 1: Concentrate on Uncooked Rating Enchancment: The inspiration of a better scaled rating lies in answering extra questions appropriately. Prioritize mastering basic ideas and training problem-solving to extend the uncooked rating in every part. For instance, constant follow in algebra and geometry will seemingly improve the variety of appropriate solutions on the Math part.
Tip 2: Determine and Tackle Weaknesses: The PSAT/NMSQT rating report gives beneficial insights into areas of weak point. Analyze the subscores and focus preparation efforts on addressing particular ability deficits. As an illustration, a low rating within the “Expression of Concepts” subscore within the Writing and Language part suggests the necessity for focused follow in essay revision and rhetorical expertise.
Tip 3: Strategize Time Administration: Environment friendly time administration is essential for maximizing the variety of questions answered inside the allotted time. Follow pacing methods to keep away from spending extreme time on troublesome questions. For instance, set time objectives for finishing every part and monitor progress repeatedly throughout follow assessments.
Tip 4: Grasp Take a look at-Taking Methods: Familiarize oneself with efficient test-taking methods, comparable to technique of elimination and educated guessing, to enhance accuracy and effectivity. Think about using the method of elimination to slim down reply selections on troublesome studying comprehension questions.
Tip 5: Emphasize Vocabulary Growth: A robust vocabulary is important for fulfillment on the Proof-Primarily based Studying and Writing sections. Dedicate time to studying new phrases and reviewing vocabulary lists. Constant vocabulary constructing, mixed with contextual studying, will seemingly result in improved comprehension and better scores.
Tip 6: Simulate Take a look at Situations: Follow taking full-length PSAT/NMSQT follow assessments underneath timed circumstances to simulate the precise testing atmosphere. Common follow underneath real looking circumstances improves stamina, reduces check nervousness, and permits for refining test-taking methods.
Tip 7: Evaluation and Be taught from Errors: Fastidiously evaluate incorrect solutions on follow assessments to establish recurring errors and misconceptions. Completely perceive the reasoning behind the right reply to keep away from repeating errors. Figuring out patterns in incorrect solutions permits for focused evaluate of particular ideas or expertise.
Tip 8: Perceive Rating Conversion: Familiarize oneself with the approximate conversion tables to grasp how uncooked scores translate to scaled scores. Understanding the approximate variety of appropriate solutions wanted to realize a desired rating can encourage and information preparation efforts.
Strategic implementation of the following tips, guided by an understanding of the scoring ideas, ought to result in a demonstrably greater rating, enhancing Nationwide Benefit Scholarship eligibility and indicating school readiness. Prioritization of constant effort and focused preparation stays the important thing to maximizing potential.
The concluding part will summarize the salient factors and emphasize the general advantages of successfully getting ready for the PSAT/NMSQT.
The Significance of Comprehending PSAT/NMSQT Rating Willpower
This text has detailed the multifaceted technique of PSAT/NMSQT rating computation. Emphasis has been positioned on the significance of understanding the conversion from uncooked scores to scaled scores, the contribution of particular person sections to the composite rating, and the following affect on Nationwide Benefit eligibility. Familiarity with these mechanisms empowers college students to strategically allocate their preparation efforts, specializing in areas that yield the best potential for rating enchancment.
The power to interpret rating experiences precisely and translate this data into actionable methods is essential for maximizing tutorial alternatives. It’s incumbent upon college students and educators alike to acknowledge the worth of a data-driven method to check preparation, thereby guaranteeing that efficiency on the PSAT/NMSQT displays a scholar’s true tutorial capabilities and potential for fulfillment. The funding in understanding scoring methodologies extends past quick scholarship alternatives, fostering a deeper comprehension of standardized assessments and getting ready college students for future tutorial endeavors.
