The biggest obstacles are typically pacing (finishing all passages in time), understanding complex question formats, and distinguishing between plausible but incorrect answers. Many students also struggle with vocabulary-in-context questions and making inferences from dense passages. Tutors can help you develop efficient reading strategies, learn to identify question types quickly, and practice the elimination techniques that separate strong scores from excellent ones.

Your initial session typically involves taking a diagnostic assessment or reviewing your recent PSAT practice test to identify your specific strengths and gaps. A tutor will ask about your target score, timeline, and any particular question types that frustrate you most. From there, they'll create a personalized study plan focused on your needs—whether that's building vocabulary, mastering passage comprehension, or perfecting timing strategies.

Practice tests are essential—they're how you build stamina, get comfortable with the test format, and identify patterns in your mistakes. Most tutors recommend taking full-length practice tests every 1-2 weeks, then reviewing them carefully to spot recurring errors. This combination of test-taking practice and error analysis is far more effective than just studying vocabulary or reading tips in isolation.

Timing issues usually stem from spending too long on difficult passages or overthinking answer choices. Tutors teach strategies like previewing questions before reading, skimming for structure rather than memorizing details, and using elimination techniques to narrow down answers faster. With practice, you'll learn which passages to tackle first and when to make an educated guess rather than getting stuck—skills that dramatically improve your score within the time limit.

Not necessarily. While vocabulary appears in the test, the PSAT focuses more on vocabulary-in-context questions where you determine word meaning from surrounding text. Rather than memorizing endless lists, tutors help you recognize common word patterns, understand how context clues work, and identify which vocabulary words actually appear frequently on the test. This targeted approach is much more efficient than traditional flashcard studying.

Test anxiety often improves dramatically with familiarity and confidence. Regular tutoring sessions with practice tests help you become comfortable with the format and question types, reducing the panic factor on test day. Tutors also teach breathing techniques, time management strategies, and how to approach difficult questions calmly—all of which build the confidence you need to perform your best when it matters.

Varsity Tutors connects you with expert tutors in Colorado Springs who specialize in PSAT preparation and understand the specific challenges of the Critical Reading section. When you reach out, you'll be matched with someone whose teaching style fits your learning preferences and whose schedule aligns with yours. Most tutors offer flexible scheduling and personalized instruction tailored to your score goals and timeline.