48 Best PSAT and National Merit Prep Books of All Time

We've ranked the best psat and national merit prep books using expert recommendations, sales data, and millions of reader ratings. At Shortform, we know books. Our book guides are the best in the world. Learn why.

Cracking the Psat/NMSQT with 2 Practice Tests, 2019 Edition: The Strategies, Practice, and Review You Need for the Score You Want book cover1

Cracking the Psat/NMSQT with 2 Practice Tests, 2019 Edition: The Strategies, Practice, and Review You Need for the Score You Want

The Princeton Review

5.0
THE PRINCETON REVIEW GETS RESULTS. Get all the prep you need to ace the PSAT with 2 full-length practice tests, thorough PSAT topic reviews, and everything you need to know about National Merit Scholarships.

Everything You Need to Know to Help Achieve a High Score.
- Up-to-date information on the PSAT
- Comprehensive review for every section of the test
- Key information and advice about National Meri
Princeton Review PSAT/NMSQT Prep, 2026: 3 Practice Tests + Review + Online Tools for the Digital PSAT (2026) (College Test Preparation) book cover2

Princeton Review PSAT/NMSQT Prep, 2026: 3 Practice Tests + Review + Online Tools for the Digital PSAT (2026) (College Test Preparation)

The Princeton Review

4.9

THE PRINCETON REVIEW GETS RESULTS. Get all the prep you need to ace the Digital PSAT/NMSQT with 3 full-length practice tests (including adaptive online practice), thorough PSAT topic reviews, and everything you need to know about National Merit Scholarships.Techniques That Actually Work• Time-saving tips to help you effectively tackle the exam• Problem-solving tactics demonstrated on the trickiest

The Critical Reader, Sixth Edition: The Complete Guide to SAT Reading book cover3

The Critical Reader, Sixth Edition: The Complete Guide to SAT Reading

Erica Meltzer

4.9

The complete guide to SAT Reading, updated for the new digital exam and now with more material reflecting additional official practice tests. Includes a complete chapter devoted to each question type, with step-by-step explanations as well as strategies and shortcuts; essential vocabulary for sentence completions; tips for simplifying challenging passages and graphs, and for identifying key inform

Digital PSAT 8/9 Prep 2026-2027: 10 Practice Tests, Strategies and Study Guide book cover4

Digital PSAT 8/9 Prep 2026-2027: 10 Practice Tests, Strategies and Study Guide

TESSA ROWLAND

4.9

PSAT 8/9 Prep Book 2026-2027: 10 Full-Length Practice Tests with Detailed Answer Explanations and Proven Test-Taking Strategies [Complete Study Guide for 8th and 9th Graders]10 Complete Practice Tests Designed to Match the Digital PSAT 8/9 FormatCreated by expert test developers for students aiming to achieve their best score on the PSAT 8/9 exam.Comprehensive Study Guide Includes:Quick Overview -

Princeton Review PSAT/NMSQT Prep, 2025: 3 Practice Tests + Review + Online Tools for the Digital PSAT (2025) (College Test Preparation) book cover5

Princeton Review PSAT/NMSQT Prep, 2025: 3 Practice Tests + Review + Online Tools for the Digital PSAT (2025) (College Test Preparation)

The Princeton Review

4.9

THE PRINCETON REVIEW GETS RESULTS. Get all the prep you need to ace the Digital PSAT/NMSQT with 3 full-length practice tests (including adaptive online practice), thorough PSAT topic reviews, and everything you need to know about National Merit Scholarships.Techniques That Actually Work• Time-saving tips to help you effectively tackle the exam• Problem-solving tactics demonstrated on the trickiest

10 Practice Tests for the Sat, 2019 Edition: Extra Preparation to Help Achieve an Excellent Score book cover6

10 Practice Tests for the Sat, 2019 Edition: Extra Preparation to Help Achieve an Excellent Score

The Princeton Review

4.9
Make sure you're studying with the most up-to-date prep materials! Look for The Princeton Review's 10 Practice Tests for the SAT, 2020 Edition (ISBN: 9780525568063, on-sale 5/7/19).

Publisher's Note: Products purchased from third-party sellers are not guaranteed by the publisher for quality or authenticity, and may not include access to online tests or materials included with the original product.
7

PSAT Prep 2019 & 2020: PSAT Secrets Study Guide, Full-Length Practice Test with Detailed Answer Explanations

Mometrix College Admissions Test Team

4.9
Mind the Test: SAT and ACT Grammar Workbook book cover8

Mind the Test: SAT and ACT Grammar Workbook

Anna Moss

4.9

Raise your score with detailed strategies, explanations, and practice problems. Every chapter has been designed using brain-based psychology research so you can teach yourself all the grammar you need for the SAT and ACT.In addition to detailed, easy-to-understand explanations, this SAT and ACT prep book includes realistic practice problems and exercises designed based on the latest brain-based co

PSAT/NMSQT Prep, Third Edition: Includes a Full Length Practice Test + 100s of Practice Questions + 1 Year Access Online Quizzes and Video Instruction (Kaplan Test Prep) book cover9

PSAT/NMSQT Prep, Third Edition: Includes a Full Length Practice Test + 100s of Practice Questions + 1 Year Access Online Quizzes and Video Instruction (Kaplan Test Prep)

Kaplan Test Prep

4.9

Ready to conquer the PSAT? PSAT/NMSQT Prep, Third Edition, is your all-in-one guide to feeling confident and prepared on test day. We've packed this guide with the expert strategies, clear explanations, and realistic practice you need to achieve your best score.The Kaplan Guarantee We’re so certain that PSAT/NMSQT Prep, Third Edition, offers all the guidance you need to excel on the PSAT that we g

Digital PSAT/NMSQT Prep 2024 with 1 Full Length Practice Test, Practice Questions, and Quizzes (Kaplan Test Prep) book cover10

Digital PSAT/NMSQT Prep 2024 with 1 Full Length Practice Test, Practice Questions, and Quizzes (Kaplan Test Prep)

Kaplan Test Prep

4.9

Kaplan's Digital PSAT/NMSQT Prep 2024 gives you the expert strategies, clear explanations, and effective practice you need to feel confident and prepared on test day. This edition has been designed based on student feedback and includes hundreds of practice questions.We’re so certain that Digital PSAT/NMSQT Prep offers all the guidance you need to excel on the PSAT that we guarantee it: After stud

11

The Critical Reader: The Complete Guide to SAT Reading

Erica L. Meltzer

4.9
Intended to clearly and systematically demystify what is often considered the most challenging section of the SAT, The Critical Reader: The Complete Guide to SAT(R) Reading, 3rd Edition, provides a comprehensive review of the reading skills tested on the redesigned exam for students who are serious about raising their scores.

Includes:

-A chapter-by-chapter breakdown of question types, with in-depth
College Readiness Test Tips & Strategies book cover12

College Readiness Test Tips & Strategies

Julia Mastromarino M.Ed.

4.9

This book is a consumable workbook written for the student who is planning to take any standardized tests for reading and grammar including the Digital SAT and the ACT. The book is a student-friendly, condensed version of standardized test content designed to allow the student to gain the exact skills, knowledge. and strategies required to score well in any reading, grammar, and writing test. This

PSAT Study Cards: Prep 2026-2027 with Practice Test Questions for the College Board PSAT [Full Color Cards] book cover13

PSAT Study Cards: Prep 2026-2027 with Practice Test Questions for the College Board PSAT [Full Color Cards]

Test Prep Books

4.9

Test Prep Books' PSAT Study Cards: Prep with Practice Test Questions for the College Board PSAT [Full Color Cards]Developed by Test Prep Books for test takers trying to achieve a passing score on the PSAT test, these cards cover:Study TipsReading TestWriting and Language TestMath TestPractice QuestionsDisclaimer: PSAT/NMSQT® is a trademark registered by the College Board and the National Merit Sch

PSAT/NMSQT Exam Prep: The Definitive ScoreMax Method to Master the Digital Exam and Reach Your Best Score | Includes Full-Length Exams, Smart Online Tools, and Expert Strategies for Every Section book cover14

PSAT/NMSQT Exam Prep: The Definitive ScoreMax Method to Master the Digital Exam and Reach Your Best Score | Includes Full-Length Exams, Smart Online Tools, and Expert Strategies for Every Section

Ethan C. Maxwell

4.9

Give Your Child the Confidence, Strategy, and Focus to Excel on the Digital PSAT/NMSQTWhen college admissions and scholarships are on the line, preparation matters—but not every prep book delivers results.PSAT/NMSQT Exam Prep is a structured, evidence-based program designed to help your student perform at their best on the new Digital PSAT/NMSQT.Developed by test experts, this book provides a meas

SAT® Vocabulary: A New Approach book cover15

SAT® Vocabulary: A New Approach

Erica Meltzer, Larry Krieger

4.9

On the Digital SAT®, vocabulary is back! SAT Vocabulary: A New Approach, Second Edition, features a list of top vocabulary words accompanied by entertaining definitions, plus numerous practice questions with detailed explanations that allow students to practice applying their skills to test-style sentence completions. An additional section on transitional words and phrases teaches test-takers to s

16

The Ultimate Guide to SAT Grammar Workbook

Erica L. Meltzer

4.8
The Ultimate Guide to SAT(R) Grammar Workbook, 4th Edition, contains six complete multiple-choice exams carefully aligned with the Writing and Language Test on the redesigned SAT. Each test is accompanied by thorough explanations designed to reinforce the concepts and strategies presented in the grammar book.
6 Practice Tests for the Digital SAT, 2026: In-Book + Online Practice Tests for Your Top Score (2026) (College Test Preparation) book cover17

6 Practice Tests for the Digital SAT, 2026: In-Book + Online Practice Tests for Your Top Score (2026) (College Test Preparation)

The Princeton Review

4.8

Make sure you’re studying with the most up-to-date prep materials! Look for the newest edition of this title, 7 Practice Tests for the SAT, 2027 (ISBN: 9798217223183, on-sale May 2026)Publisher's Note: Products purchased from third-party sellers are not guaranteed by the publisher for quality or authenticity, and may not include access to online tests or materials included with the original produc

Princeton Review PSAT/NMSQT Prep, 2023-2024: 2 Practice Tests + Review + Online Tools for the NEW Digital PSAT (2023) (College Test Preparation) book cover18

Princeton Review PSAT/NMSQT Prep, 2023-2024: 2 Practice Tests + Review + Online Tools for the NEW Digital PSAT (2023) (College Test Preparation)

The Princeton Review

4.8

THE PRINCETON REVIEW GETS RESULTS. Get all the prep you need to ace the PSAT/NMSQT with 2 full-length practice tests, thorough PSAT topic reviews, and everything you need to know about National Merit Scholarships. Techniques That Actually Work • Time-saving tips to help you effectively tackle the exam • Problem-solving tactics demonstrated on the trickiest test questions • Point-earning strategies

PSAT 8/9 Prep Study Cards 2026-2027: PSAT 8/9 Exam Prep and Practice Test Questions for the Reading, Writing, and Math [Full Color Cards] book cover19

PSAT 8/9 Prep Study Cards 2026-2027: PSAT 8/9 Exam Prep and Practice Test Questions for the Reading, Writing, and Math [Full Color Cards]

Test Prep Books

4.8

Test Prep Books' PSAT 8/9 Prep Study Cards: PSAT 8/9 Exam Prep and Practice Test Questions for the Reading, Writing, and Math [Full Color Cards]Developed by Test Prep Books for test takers trying to achieve a passing score on the PSAT 8/9 test, these cards cover:Study TipsReading and Writing TestMath TestPractice QuestionsDisclaimer: PSATTM is a trademark owned by the College Board, which is not a

6 Practice Tests for the SAT book cover20

6 Practice Tests for the SAT

Princeton Review

4.8
YOU'LL NEED EXTRA PRACTICE TO ACHIEVE AN EXCELLENT SCORE.

The New SAT is still an unknown quantity for many students--and we all know that practice is one of the best ways to get comfortable with any exam.

6 Practice Tests for the SAT provides six complete opportunities to assess whether your skills are up to the mark on the New SAT’s higher-level math questions and reading comprehension passages.
21

9 Practice Tests for the Sat, 2018 Edition: Extra Preparation to Help Achieve an Excellent Score

Princeton Review

4.8
1,350+ practice questions to help you prep your way to an excellent SAT score.

Practice makes perfect, and the best way to practice your SAT test-taking skills is with simulated exams. The Princeton Review's 9 Practice Tests for the SAT provides nine full-length opportunities to assess whether you have the skills to ace the exam's higher-level math questions and reading comprehension passages. Insi
22

PSAT/NMSQT Prep 2020: 2 Practice Tests + Proven Strategies + Online (Kaplan Test Prep)

Kaplan Test Prep

4.8
Kaplan's PSAT/NMSQT Prep 2020 offers realistic practice, detailed explanations, and expert tips to help you score higher. Avoid surprises on Test Day with our up-to-date, detailed test overview, including section breakdowns and scoring explanations.

Kaplan is so certain that PSAT/NMSQT Prep 2020 offers all the guidance you need to excel on the PSAT that we guarantee it: After studying with our onli
PSAT/NMSQT Study Guide Premium, 2026: 2 Practice Tests + Comprehensive Review+ 200 Online Drills (Barron's Test Prep) book cover23

PSAT/NMSQT Study Guide Premium, 2026: 2 Practice Tests + Comprehensive Review+ 200 Online Drills (Barron's Test Prep)

Brian W. Stewart M.Ed.

4.8

Barron’s PSAT/NMSQT Study Guide Premium, 2026 includes everything you need to be prepared for exam day with comprehensive review and practice that reflects the digital PSAT/NMSQT! Internationally known expert author and tutor, Brian W. Stewart, a Princeton graduate and perfect SAT score holder, puts his 30,000 plus hours of teaching and tutoring experience to work for you. He gives you the same cl

24

Barron's Strategies and Practice for the NEW PSAT/NMSQT

Brian Stewart

4.8
This completely new test prep manual introduces high school students to the newly redesigned PSAT/NMSQT test and prepares them to get the best score possible. This book features:

2 practice tests reflective of the NEW PSAT
Tips and strategies specific to each section of the test, including Critical Reading, Writing Skills, and Math
Advice for students aiming for National Merit Scholarships
Much more
St
SAT® Vocabulary: A New Approach, Third Edition book cover25

SAT® Vocabulary: A New Approach, Third Edition

Erica Meltzer

4.8

The updated third edition of SAT Vocabulary: A New Approach includes 75 pages of additional material and emphasizes context as well as relationships between words. Three hundred top vocabulary words for the digital exam are presented via a variety of contemporary topics, with detailed examples drawn from the sciences, social sciences, arts, sports, and business. A separate section covers transitio

PSAT/NMSQT with Online Tests book cover26

PSAT/NMSQT with Online Tests

Ira K. Wolf Ph.D., Sharon Weiner Green M.A., et al.

4.8
This updated manual prepares high school students for the preliminary version of the SAT college entrance exam (PSAT). The test also functions as the National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test (NMSQT), giving students a chance to qualify for valuable college scholarships. Barron’s new edition of this manual presents one diagnostic test plus six full-length model tests, all with answer sheets and e
Workout for the PSAT/NMSQT, 2nd Edition book cover27

Workout for the PSAT/NMSQT, 2nd Edition

The Princeton Review

4.8
THE PRINCETON REVIEW GETS RESULTS. Get the extra practice you need for the score you want on the PSAT—plus everything you need to know about National Merit Scholarships!

The PSAT is an important test, both because it provides critical practice for the SAT and because students compete for National Merit Scholarships via their PSAT scores. This 2nd edition of Workout for the PSAT/NMSQT—created and re
28

PSAT Prep Book 2018 & 2019 Practice Tests: Three Full-Length PSAT Practice Tests

Test Prep Books

4.8
Test Prep Book's PSAT Prep Book 2018 & 2019 Practice Tests: Three Full-Length PSAT Practice Tests


Developed by Test Prep Books for test takers trying to achieve passing PSAT scores on the exam, this practice test book includes:



-Quick Overview

-Test-Taking Strategies

-Introduction

-Practice Test #1

-Answer Explanations #1

-Practice Test #2

-Answer Explanations #2

-Practice Test #3

-Answer Explanations #3



D
Cracking the PSAT/NMSQT with 2 Practice Tests book cover29

Cracking the PSAT/NMSQT with 2 Practice Tests

Princeton Review

4.8
THE PRINCETON REVIEW GETS RESULTS. Get all the prep you need to ace the PSAT with 2 full-length practice tests, thorough PSAT topic reviews, and extra practice online.

Techniques That Actually Work.
• Specific strategies for cracking every question type
• Everything you need to know about National Merit Scholarships
• Tips for writing strong essays that will help your college applications stand out
30

PSAT Prep 2018: Study Guide Prep Book & Practice Test Questions for the College Board PSAT/NMSQT

Test Prep Books

4.8
Kaplan ACT Strategies for Super Busy Students: 15 Simple Steps to Tackle the ACT While Keeping Your Life Together book cover31

Kaplan ACT Strategies for Super Busy Students: 15 Simple Steps to Tackle the ACT While Keeping Your Life Together

Kaplan

4.8
The ideal ACT study tool from Kaplan, the test prep experts, created specifically for the busy student who wants to get the highest score possible but is low on time.

Today’s high school students are busier than ever. Between school, work, extra-curricular activities, family, and friends it is often difficult to find time to study for the ACT. Just because you don’t have a lot of time to study for
32

10 Practice Tests for the SAT: For Students taking the SAT in 2015 or January 2016

Princeton Review

4.8
THE PRINCETON REVIEW GETS RESULTS. Get all the prep you need to ace the 2015 or January 2016 SAT with 10 full-length practice tests and detailed answer explanations!

The SAT is changing in March 2016--and the word on the street is that it's getting tougher. Don't miss your chance to take the existing exam! This book provides practice that reflects the SAT being proctored through this year and into
PSAT/NMSQT 2017 Strategies, Practice Review with 2 Practice Tests: Online + Book book cover33

PSAT/NMSQT 2017 Strategies, Practice Review with 2 Practice Tests: Online + Book

Kaplan Test Prep

4.8
Always study with the most up-to-date prep! Look for PSAT/NMSQT Prep 2018, ISBN 9781506221397, on sale June 6, 2017.
34

552 PSAT Practice Questions

The Princeton Review

4.8
THE PRINCETON REVIEW GETS RESULTS. Get all the prep you need to ace the PSAT with 500 practice questions & everything you need to know about National Merit Scholarships!

This eBook edition has been optimized for on-screen viewing with cross-linked questions, answers, and explanations.

Techniques That Actually Work.
• Targeted drills for all PSAT topics
• Answers and detailed explanations for every
35

PSAT 8/9 Prep Books 2018 & 2019: Test Prep Reading, Writing, & Math Workbook and Practice Test Questions

College Prep Study Guide Team

4.8
Kaplan PSAT/NMSQT, 2009 Edition (Kaplan Psat) book cover36

Kaplan PSAT/NMSQT, 2009 Edition (Kaplan Psat)

Kaplan

4.8
Includes everything students need to score higher on the PSAT exam with:3 full-length practice tests with detailed answer explanations

A diagnostic exam with targeted feedback for students to customize and focus their study schedule

Effective tips and strategies for every section of the PSAT exam

Valuable student resources including a list of the most commonly tested vocabulary words, a comprehensive
37

Kaplan PSAT/NMSQT Premier 2013

Kaplan

4.8
The most complete guide to the Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualification Test, Kaplan PSAT/NMSQT 2013 Premier offers:* 5 full-length practice tests (4 in the book, 1 online)

* Comprehensive review for all sections of the test

* Targeted topic review videos online

* Parent and group study guides

* Targeted focus on the hardest questions

* Detailed answer explanations

* Writing skills revie
11 Practice Tests for the SAT and PSAT, 2014 Edition book cover38

11 Practice Tests for the SAT and PSAT, 2014 Edition

Princeton Review

4.8
Kaplan New PSAT/NMSQT Strategies, Practice and Review with 2 Practice Tests: Book + Online book cover39

Kaplan New PSAT/NMSQT Strategies, Practice and Review with 2 Practice Tests: Book + Online

Kaplan

4.8
The most complete test preparation guide for the New PSAT!

Prepare for the New PSAT with confidence! With more than 75 years of experience and more than 95% of our students getting into their top-choice schools, Kaplan knows how to increase your score and get you into your top-choice college!

Prep Smarter. Not Harder. The PSAT is changing in October 2015! Aligned to the new SAT, the redesigned PSAT/
PSAT/NMSQT Prep 2019: 2 Practice Tests + Proven Strategies + Online book cover40

PSAT/NMSQT Prep 2019: 2 Practice Tests + Proven Strategies + Online

Kaplan Test Prep

4.8
Always study with the most up-to-date prep! Look for PSAT/NMSQT Prep 2020, ISBN 978-1-5062-3700-8, on sale July 2, 2019.

Publisher's Note: Products purchased from third-party sellers are not guaranteed by the publisher for quality, authenticity, or access to any online entitles included with the product.
41

Cracking the SAT with CD-ROM, 2002 Edition (Cracking the Sat With Sample Tests on DVD)

Adam Robinson

4.7
The Princeton Review realizes that acing the SAT is very different from getting straight As in school. The Princeton Review doesn't try to teach students everything there is to know about math and English—only the techniques they'll need to score higher on the exam. There’s a big difference. In Cracking the SAT & PSAT/NMSQT, The Princeton Review will teach test takers how to think like the test ma
42

Mind Maps: Quicker Notes, Better Memory, and Improved Learning 2.0

Michael Taylor

4.7
The number one Mind Map book has gotten better. Version 2.0 has more examples, better illustrations, and easier step-by-step instructions.

Also includes links to numerous free mind mapping software - no need to buy, subscribe, or submit proof of purchase.

Mind Mapping is a note taking system which allows you to take better, faster, and more efficient notes. In conventional note-taking, you write dow
43

PSAT/NMSQT 2018 Strategies, Practice, and Review with 2 Practice Tests: Online + Book

Kaplan Test Prep

4.7
The most complete PSAT preparation guide!
Prep Smarter. Not Harder. The PSAT is a critical step in your education and future. It tests key skills and concepts that you'll need to succeed in high school and college. A high score is also a great way to start to differentiate yourself for college admissions and potential scholarships. PSAT/NMSQT 2018 is the comprehensive and fully updated guide that w
Cracking the PSAT/NMSQT with 2 Practice Tests, 2014 Edition (College Test Preparation) book cover44

Cracking the PSAT/NMSQT with 2 Practice Tests, 2014 Edition (College Test Preparation)

Princeton Review

4.7
Kaplan PSAT/NMSQT 2015 Strategies, Practice, and Review with 4 Practice Tests: Book + Online book cover45

Kaplan PSAT/NMSQT 2015 Strategies, Practice, and Review with 4 Practice Tests: Book + Online

Kaplan

4.7
The most complete PSAT/NMSQT prep guide—delivering exclusive practice and online content guaranteed to raise your scores from the leader in test prep for 75 years!
Think you don’t need to prepare for the PSAT? Think again! The PSAT/NMSQT determines eligibility for the National Merit Scholarship and indicates preparedness for the SAT. Kaplan's PSAT/NMSQT Strategies, Practice, and Review is the most
46

Barron's PSAT/NMSQT 1520: Aiming for National Merit

Brian Stewart

4.7
Always study with the most up-to-date prep! Look for Barron's PSAT/NMSQT 1520 with Online Test, Second Edition, ISBN 978-1-4380-1191-2, on sale June 4, 2019.

Publisher's Note: Products purchased from third-party sellers are not guaranteed by the publisher for quality, authenticity, or access to any online entitles included with the product.
47

PSAT 8/9 Prep Books 2018 & 2019: Test Prep Reading, Writing, & Math Workbook and Practice Test Questions

Test Prep Books

4.7
48

Kaplan PSAT/NMSQT 2012 Premier

Kaplan

4.7
The most complete test preparation guide—delivering exclusive practice and online content guaranteed to raise scores on the PSAT/NMSQT!Scores on the Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test (PSAT/NMSQT) are used to determine eligibility for National Merit Scholarships and also provide an indicator of likely SAT scoring. The PSAT/NMSQT consists of three parts: two 25-minute critic