Im a sophomore and I took the PSAT and I got the results back today. I got a combined score of 148. To me this seemd low and I should of got a higher score because I score between 120-150 on IQ tests. Does this mean i am stupid?
Lightbulb, These standardized tests have been challenged a number of times because of cultural bias. No one is stupid, but some lack test-taking skills. Many have said that the PSAT is a good predictor of success in college, and I'm not surprised, because some colleges are just extensions of high school.
That score does seem rather low, and I think you should question it.
People do not usually score on such a wide range in IQ tests. What tests are you taking? The average IQ is 100. Scores between 120-150 are quite a bit above average.
I would suggest that you get a good book on preparing for the SATs.
If you study it, you will get a good idea of where you need to improve. In that way, you can concentrate in those areas where you are weak.
BTW, how are your grades in math and English? A low score on a PSAT does not mean that you are stupid. All it means is that you are not as well prepared in the areas that the PSAT tests, than other students in your grade.
Quote:
Information on the Score Report
The PSAT/NMSQT score reports provide three different scores on the 20-to-80 scale. One each for critical reading skills, math skills, and writing skills. The average critical reading, math, and writing skills score for juniors is about 49.
Also on your score report is the Selection Index, which is the sum of the three scores (CR + M + W). The Selection Index ranges from 60 to 240. The average Selection Index of juniors is about 147.
Score reports include percentiles, which allow you to compare your scores with those of other juniors who will be applying to college. For example, a student with a percentile of 53 has earned a score better than 53 out of every 100 college-bound juniors who took the test. Go to Score Report Plus for more information about your score report.
You are only a sophomore. According to the College Board, the average selection score of juniors is 147. Check out your percentiles. It will tell you how you scored in comparison with others in your grade.
lightbulb, Welcome to A2K. Since the good people of A2K have pretty much answered your question, I'll just sit back and extend my welcome. No, you are not stupid. Don't ever denegrate yourself; always think positive. No one single event in life is that important.
Well, it was first devised by Alfred Binet who simply wanted to separate the educable from the non educable, then Stanford took it over. If one tends to be creative, then it may be possible to have a low score.
PoeticMisterE, Do you write poetry, or is that just a handle?
The PSAT's are mostly practice, but if you score poorly on the SAT's (which many colleges require) a good PSAT score may show that your poor scores are not typical.
No, you are not stupid. Don't ever denegrate yourself; always think positive. No one single event in life is that important.
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