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 8 words
Alphabetical. Everything in the Speed & Pace guide.
01
delayedverb
made late or slow; postponed
The flight was delayed by three hours due to severe weather conditions, helping observers compare the actual pace with what they had originally expected.
Memory cueA delayed event has its clock pushed later along the timeline.
02
fleetadjective
fast and nimble in movement
The fleet runner won the race, making the rate of progress noticeable to everyone monitoring the process.
Memory cueA fleet-footed animal moves quickly and nimbly.
03
immediateadjective
occurring or done at once
The situation required immediate action, making the rate of progress noticeable to everyone monitoring the process.
Memory cueAn immediate response follows the signal with no gap.
04
measuredadjective
having a slow, regular rhythm
She spoke in measured tones, helping observers compare the actual pace with what they had originally expected.
Memory cueA measured pace follows the slow, regular beat of a metronome.
05
promptadjective
done without delay
Your prompt reply is appreciated, helping observers compare the actual pace with what they had originally expected.
Memory cueA prompt action begins the instant the start bell rings.
06
rapidadjective
happening in a short time
The rapid growth surprised analysts, making the rate of progress noticeable to everyone monitoring the process.
Memory cueA rapid sequence races through many steps in little time.
07
steadilyadverb
in a regular and even manner; gradually and consistently
The company has grown steadily over the past decade, showing how quickly the situation developed once the activity had begun.
Memory cueA steady metronome advances at one even, consistent pace.
08
swiftadjective
happening quickly or promptly
The swift response prevented disaster, making the rate of progress noticeable to everyone monitoring the process.
Memory cueA swift arrow crosses the distance almost immediately.
