Kaplan PSAT/NMSQT 2012 Premier

 (5 customer reviews)

THE GOOD:

1) Accessible review of all topics covered on the PSAT
2) 4 full-length practice tests (see below) with explanations for each question
3) Useful tips in sidebars throughout the book
4) Great appendix - it covers word roots, commonly tested words and their definitions, grammar, math, and even writing the SAT essay!
5) Accurate practice problems - accurate in terms of difficulty and content (see below)

The BAD:

1) Inaccurate score converter. The score converter for the first test is about 20 points optimistic. I took the Kaplan test and then the 2005 PSAT immediately afterward. Kaplan: 238. 2005 PSAT Form W: 218. I got the 2005 PSAT booklet from a friend.

The second test is slightly more realistic - I got a 220 on the second Kaplan practice test.

THE UGLY:

1)* 1 math misconception (page 173, under "Double Negatives" heading)
2) 1 typo on practice test #3 (Writing section, page 345,...Read more

I like this book overall, it has a diagnostic test to see how much you know, and 3 practice tests to see how much progress you are making. It has sample questions, how to tackle each section of the PSAT, and all that good stuff. You should definitely get this book if you are preparing for the PSAT. It also has 100 essential math concepts, root list, vocabs, and so on. Also, it has an online practice test that gives you an advance look at the SAT. Great book!!

It helps my son for preaparing for enterance test for McNair High School, Jersey City, NJ. He worked hard to review all materials in the book. Tips are helpful. Took practice tests given in the book that helped him for real exam.