The SAT Math section gives you 80 minutes for 58 questions across two modules. Most students benefit from spending 30-45 seconds per easier question and 60-90 seconds on harder ones, saving the toughest problems for last. A common mistake is getting stuck on one difficult problem and running out of time for questions you could solve.

Expert tutors for students in Washington, DC often teach the "skip and return" strategy: do all problems you're confident about first, then go back to harder ones. Practice tests are essential—they help you get comfortable with the pacing and identify which question types slow you down most.

Most students struggle with: algebra word problems (especially multi-step scenarios), exponential growth/decay, passport problems involving multiple concepts, and geometry involving coordinate planes or 3D shapes. Understanding what the question is actually asking—not just doing the math—is equally important.

The SAT also tests strategic problem-solving more than pure calculation. You might encounter a question where algebraic manipulation is harder than substituting numbers or testing answer choices. A tutor can help you recognize these patterns and develop flexible strategies for different question types.

Take full, untimed practice tests first to see which topics and question types challenge you most. Once you've identified weak areas, work through problems in those topics with time removed so you focus on understanding, not speed. Then take timed sections to build pacing confidence.

Most test-prep experts recommend 3-4 full practice tests spread throughout your preparation. After each test, spend more time on your mistakes than on what you got right—understanding why you chose wrong answers is more valuable than reviewing correct ones. Varsity Tutors connects you with tutors who can review your practice tests with you and develop targeted study plans based on what you uncover.

Test anxiety often stems from uncertainty about your abilities or unfamiliarity with the test format. Practicing full, timed tests under realistic conditions helps normalize the experience and builds confidence. Deep breathing during the test—especially before moving to harder questions—keeps your mind clear when you're under pressure.

Working with a tutor who reviews your practice tests and helps you develop solid strategies also reduces anxiety. When you know exactly what to expect, have a plan for different question types, and understand that it's okay to skip difficult questions, you approach the test with more confidence. Many students find that even a few sessions before test day significantly reduce nervousness.

Look for tutors who have strong SAT experience, understand the current test format, and can diagnose your specific weak areas quickly. They should focus on strategy and problem-solving approaches—not just drilling practice problems—and be able to explain concepts in a way that clicks for you personally.

A good fit also means someone who's flexible with your schedule and can adapt to your learning pace. Varsity Tutors connects you with expert tutors for students in Washington, DC who specialize in SAT Math and can tailor their instruction to your goals and timeline.

Absolutely. Many students miss SAT Math questions not because they can't do the math, but because they misread what the question is asking. Word problems especially require careful reading to extract the right information and understand what you're solving for.

A tutor can help you develop a systematic approach to reading math problems: identifying what's given, what you're solving for, and what information is extra. Spending 5-10 extra seconds to truly understand a problem—rather than rushing to calculate—often prevents careless mistakes that cost points.