The PSAT 8/9 tests vocabulary in context: a Reading and Writing question gives you a passage and asks which word fits, and the wrong answers are usually words that are close in meaning. Studying a whole theme at once is what builds that discrimination — you learn not just what each word means, but how it differs from its neighbors.
Read the definition, then the example, then the memory cue. Come back a few days later and cover the definitions — recalling a word cold is what fixes it, and rereading it is not.
The 11 words
Alphabetical. Everything in the Beauty & Ugliness guide.
01
aestheticadjective
concerned with beauty or art
The aesthetic appeal drew visitors, giving viewers specific details on which to base their aesthetic judgment.
Memory cueAn aesthetic eye judges the beauty and artistic form of what it sees.
02
attractiveadjective
pleasing to look at; appealing
The attractive storefront display drew many customers inside, making the visual effect an important part of the audience's reaction.
Memory cueSomething attractive acts like a magnet for the eyes because it is appealing.
03
crudeadjective
in a natural state; lacking refinement
The crude drawing showed talent, giving viewers specific details on which to base their aesthetic judgment.
Memory cueA crude object remains rough and unrefined from its natural state.
04
decorationsnoun
ornaments or embellishments used to make something look more attractive
The holiday decorations transformed the plain room into a festive space, making the visual effect an important part of the audience's reaction.
Memory cueDecorations are the added ornaments that turn a plain space into an attractive one.
05
dulladjective
lacking interest or excitement
The dull colors matched his mood, shaping how observers responded to the object's appearance and overall design.
Memory cueA dull presentation drains the interest gauge and leaves it gray.
06
elegantadjective
graceful and stylish in appearance
The elegant gown attracted attention, shaping how observers responded to the object's appearance and overall design.
Memory cueAn elegant dancer moves with graceful, stylish lines.
07
exquisiteadjective
extremely beautiful and delicate
The exquisite jewelry was handcrafted, giving viewers specific details on which to base their aesthetic judgment.
