The most common struggles are managing the strict time limit (35 minutes for 40 questions), distinguishing between similar answer choices, and identifying main ideas versus supporting details. Many students also struggle with tone and inference questions, which require deeper comprehension than simple fact-finding. A tutor can help you develop efficient reading strategies and practice the specific question formats that give you the most trouble.

Pacing is about reading strategically, not faster—spending 8-9 minutes per passage and 30-40 seconds per question. Tutors teach techniques like previewing questions before reading, identifying question types (main idea vs. detail vs. inference), and knowing when to skim versus read carefully. With practice tests and targeted drills, you'll develop a rhythm that lets you answer questions accurately without rushing.

Your first session focuses on assessment and goal-setting. Your tutor will review your practice test results, identify which question types and passages challenge you most, and understand your target score and timeline. You'll also discuss your current study habits and any test anxiety concerns, so your tutor can build a personalized plan that addresses your specific needs.

Practice tests are essential—they build stamina, reveal patterns in your mistakes, and help you apply strategies under real time pressure. Most students benefit from taking full practice tests every 1-2 weeks, then reviewing them with a tutor to understand why you missed questions and adjust your approach. This cycle of practice, feedback, and refinement is how you develop the skills and confidence needed for test day.

ACT Reading focuses on five main question types: main idea/purpose, detail/fact, inference, vocabulary-in-context, and author tone/style. Each type requires different reading and answering strategies—for example, main idea questions reward big-picture thinking while detail questions require careful passage reference. Your tutor will teach you to recognize each type quickly and apply the right strategy, so you're not wasting time on the wrong approach.

Most students benefit from 1-2 sessions per week for 8-12 weeks before test day, though your ideal schedule depends on your starting score, target score, and how much independent study you can do. Weekly sessions give you consistent feedback and accountability, while bi-weekly sessions work if you're disciplined about practice between meetings. Your tutor will help you create a realistic study plan that fits your schedule and timeline.

Absolutely—test anxiety often stems from feeling unprepared or unsure of your strategy, both of which tutoring directly addresses. As you build confidence through practice, targeted feedback, and mastery of question types, anxiety naturally decreases. Your tutor can also teach you specific techniques like pacing strategies and mindfulness approaches to stay calm and focused during the test.