PSAT Week: 10 Last-Minute Tips to Maximize Your Score on the Digital PSAT

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The PSAT has officially gone digital—and that means your test prep strategy needs a digital upgrade too. Whether you’re aiming for a National Merit Scholarship or simply want to benchmark your SAT readiness, the new Digital PSAT offers a streamlined, adaptive experience that rewards smart preparation. As PSAT week kicks off, Socrato is here to help you make the most of your final days with 10 last-minute tips designed specifically for the Digital PSAT.

What’s New with the Digital PSAT?

Before diving into tips, here’s a quick refresher on what’s changed:

  • Adaptive format: The test adjusts difficulty based on your performance.
  • Shorter duration: About 2 hours and 14 minutes total.
  • Two sections: Reading & Writing and Math.
  • Digital interface: Administered on Bluebook™, College Board’s testing app.

Now, let’s get you ready to crush it.

10 Last-Minute Tips to Maximize Your Digital PSAT Score

 1. Get Comfortable with Bluebook™

Download and explore the Bluebook app ahead of time. Familiarize yourself with:

  • Navigation tools
  • Built-in calculator
  • Highlighting and annotation features
  • Flagging questions for review

This will save time and reduce stress on test day.

 2. Understand the Adaptive Format

The Digital PSAT uses multistage adaptive testing:

  • Each section has two modules
  • Your performance in the first module determines the difficulty of the second

Accuracy matters early—so focus on getting those first questions right.

 3. Review High-Yield Topics

In the final stretch, prioritize:

  • Reading & Writing: Grammar rules, transitions, vocabulary in context
  • Math: Algebra, geometry, data analysis, and word problems

Socrato’s smart analytics can help you target weak areas fast.

4. Practice with a Timer

Time management is still key. Practice with digital tools and simulate the real test environment. Use Socrato’s timed practice tests to build stamina and pacing.

 5. Use Strategic Guessing

There’s no penalty for wrong answers. If you’re unsure:

  • Eliminate obvious wrong choices
  • Make an educated guess
  • Flag it and revisit if time allows

 6. Take a Full-Length Digital Practice Test

Use Bluebook’s practice test or Socrato’s digital resources to:

  • Get used to the interface
  • Identify last-minute gaps
  • Build confidence

 7. Prioritize Sleep and Routine

Your brain needs rest to perform. Aim for 7–9 hours of sleep and stick to a consistent routine leading up to test day.

 8. Fuel Up Smart

Eat a balanced breakfast with:

  • Protein (eggs, yogurt)
  • Whole grains (toast, oatmeal)
  • Fruits or veggies

Avoid sugary foods that can lead to energy crashes.

9. Stay Calm and Focused

Digital testing can feel different—but mindset matters. Practice deep breathing, positive visualization, or listen to calming music before the exam.

10. Pack Smart and Arrive Early

Bring:

  • Fully charged device (if testing on your own laptop)
  • Photo ID
  • Snacks and water for breaks

Arriving early gives you time to settle in and troubleshoot any tech issues.

Final Thoughts

The Digital PSAT is a modern, adaptive test—but your success still depends on preparation, strategy, and confidence. These last-minute tips will help you walk into test day ready to perform your best.

Explore Socrato’s digital PSAT prep tools and smart analytics to sharpen your edge before the big day. You’ve got this!