Understanding Peterson's CLEP Score and comparing it to the actual CLEP score.

I am preparing to take the American Literature CLEP test on Wednesday (Nov. 18th), and I had bought the Complete Idiot's Guide to American Literature, as well as the Peterson's practice test bundle (3 timed practice tests for $20).

After much studying, I took my first of the Peterson's practice tests and got my score. I noticed that they score it as 1 point per question whereas the actual CLEP is scored on a weighted scoring method, with some questions worth more than others. Basically, this seems to have made the Peterson's score a completely pointless number.

Has anyone taken the Peterson's American Literature practice CLEP test and then taken the actual test? If you have, how did your Peterson's practice test % score compare to your actual score? Were they similar? Did you get a higher score on the actual CLEP?

I'm concerned because according to the CLEP testing facility, all I need is a 50 to pass, but is that 50 questions right? 50% based on their weighted scoring? I got 49/100 questions right on the Peterson's, and will be focusing my study on my weak points (Author <-> Book, and Author <-> Genre) but I could really use some peace of mind in knowing how my Peterson's score will equate to my actual CLEP score. Any insight would be greatly appreciated!

 

Never taken the American Lit Peterson's or real CLEP, but here's how my other scores when I used Peterson's compared.

Psychology- approx. 90 Q's- Peterson's: 70- CLEP: 67

U.S. History 1- approx. 120 Q's- Peterson's: 53, 52, and 43- CLEP: 66

I've heard most people say that Peterson's are much harder than CLEP as a general rule, but although my Psych scores were similar, the real CLEP questions were a lot harder. But obviously the US History P's test was a whole lot harder than the real thing.

I've found REA to be a more steadily accurate resource, but they were way off on Psychology. So I think your best bet is to use college textbooks (Collins Outlines are my best friend) as a supplement to whatever CLEP guide you use.

As far as the scoring goes, I don't think it's as big of a deal as you seem to think it is. If it wasn't at least remotely accurate I don't think so many people on DegreeInfo would advocate Peterson's.

Hopefully someone more knowledgable will come along soon and help you out