Both sections present different challenges. The math section tests conceptual understanding and problem-solving under time pressure, while the reading section demands speed, comprehension, and the ability to find evidence in dense passages. Many students struggle more with reading because they either work too slowly or rush through passages and miss key details. A tutor can help you identify which section is your real bottleneck and develop targeted strategies—whether that's improving reading pace, strengthening algebra fundamentals, or mastering geometry concepts.

Test anxiety often stems from unfamiliarity with the format or uncertainty about your abilities. Taking full-length practice tests under timed conditions is one of the best ways to build confidence—repetition makes the test feel less intimidating. A tutor can also teach you concrete strategies like pacing techniques, how to skip and return to difficult questions, and how to manage your mental state during the exam. Many students find that knowing exactly what to expect and having a solid study plan significantly reduces anxiety.

Most students benefit from 3-6 months of consistent preparation, meeting with a tutor 1-2 times per week. This gives you enough time to work through all question types, identify and address weak areas, and complete multiple practice tests. If you're starting closer to your test date, intensive tutoring can still help you focus on high-impact strategies and the areas where you'll gain the most points. The right timeline depends on your current level and target score—a tutor can assess where you are and create a personalized study plan.

Practice tests serve two critical purposes: they help you identify specific weak areas (whether it's word problems, inference questions, or geometry) and they train you to work at the test's pace and pressure. Taking full-length timed practice tests throughout your preparation helps you develop pacing strategies, learn to manage fatigue, and build test-day stamina. A tutor can review your practice test results to pinpoint patterns in your mistakes and adjust your study focus accordingly, so you're not just practicing—you're practicing strategically.

The SHSAT includes multiple-choice math questions (covering algebra, geometry, number operations, and word problems), reading comprehension questions (where you analyze passages and find evidence), and a writing task. Each section has its own rhythm and strategy. Math requires you to work efficiently without a calculator on part of the test, while reading demands that you balance speed with careful comprehension. A tutor helps you master the specific question formats, learn what each type is testing for, and develop the fastest, most accurate approach for each one.

Varsity Tutors connects you with expert tutors who specialize in SHSAT prep and understand the specific skills tested on the exam. Whether you're in downtown Denver, nearby suburbs, or anywhere across the state, you can get personalized 1-on-1 instruction tailored to your strengths and weaknesses. Tutors work with you to build a customized study plan, review practice tests, and refine your test-taking strategies so you walk in on test day feeling confident and prepared.