Score improvement depends on your starting point and how consistently you prepare. Students who work with tutors typically see gains of 50-150 points or more, though results vary based on baseline performance and study intensity. The key is identifying your specific weak areas—whether that's reading comprehension pacing, math problem-solving strategies, or test anxiety—and targeting those directly through personalized instruction.

The SHSAT has two main sections: English Language Arts (ELA) and Math. ELA tests reading comprehension and grammar, while Math covers algebra, geometry, and problem-solving. Many students find ELA more challenging because it requires both speed and deep comprehension—you need to understand nuanced passages quickly and manage time across multiple questions. Math struggles often stem from unfamiliar question formats and time pressure rather than core math knowledge.

Most students benefit from 3-6 months of consistent preparation, though this varies based on your current level and test date. A typical approach involves 1-2 tutoring sessions per week combined with independent practice. Starting early gives you time to build foundational skills, take multiple practice tests, identify patterns in your mistakes, and refine test-taking strategies without feeling rushed.

Practice tests serve two critical purposes: they build test-day stamina and reveal exactly where you're losing points. By taking full-length practice tests under timed conditions, you can identify whether you're struggling with specific question types, managing time poorly, or making careless errors. Tutors use your practice test results to pinpoint weak areas and adjust your study plan, making your preparation far more efficient than generic study guides.

Test anxiety often stems from unfamiliar question formats and time pressure—both things you can conquer through repeated practice. Working with a tutor helps you build confidence by mastering the test structure, developing reliable strategies for each question type, and taking practice tests until the format feels familiar. On test day, having a solid game plan (like which sections to tackle first, how to pace yourself, and when to skip tough questions) significantly reduces anxiety and helps you perform closer to your practice level.

Key SHSAT math strategies include: working backwards from answer choices, plugging in numbers to test solutions, and recognizing that many problems reward strategic thinking over calculation speed. Common mistakes involve rushing through setup, misreading what the question asks, and spending too long on one difficult problem. A tutor can teach you which strategy works best for different question types and help you practice pacing so you can attempt every question without running out of time.

Look for tutors who have specific SHSAT experience, understand the test's unique format and timing demands, and can diagnose your individual weak areas rather than using a one-size-fits-all approach. Varsity Tutors connects you with expert tutors who specialize in SHSAT prep and can work with your schedule to provide personalized 1-on-1 instruction. A strong tutor will start by assessing your current level, create a customized study plan based on your goals, and track your progress through regular practice tests.