Your first session focuses on understanding where you stand and what you need to work on. A tutor will review your practice test scores, discuss which topics feel confusing, and identify patterns in the questions you're missing. From there, you'll create a personalized plan that targets your specific challenges—whether it's time management, particular math concepts, or building confidence with harder problems.

The most common struggles are pacing (running out of time), misunderstanding what a question is asking, and gaps in foundational algebra or geometry. Many students also struggle with the no-calculator section or panic when they see unfamiliar problem formats. Personalized tutoring helps you slow down, practice strategic reading of questions, and build confidence by repeatedly working through problems that previously felt impossible.

Practice tests are essential—they're the most realistic way to identify weak areas and get used to the test's pacing and format. Taking full practice tests under timed conditions helps you discover whether you're struggling with specific math topics or just running out of time. A tutor can review your practice test results to pinpoint exactly which question types and concepts need the most work.

Effective timing comes down to knowing when to skip a hard problem and come back to it later, rather than getting stuck. A tutor can teach you which types of problems to tackle first, how to quickly estimate if an answer is reasonable, and pacing benchmarks for each section. With practice, you'll develop a rhythm that lets you answer most questions confidently while leaving time to revisit tougher ones.

Much of test anxiety comes from feeling unprepared or unsure about your approach. Working with a tutor builds confidence through repeated exposure to different problem types and consistent practice under realistic conditions. As you see yourself solving problems correctly and improving your score, anxiety naturally decreases—you're no longer walking into the test wondering what to expect.

Look for someone with deep knowledge of the SAT Math section, experience helping students improve their scores, and the ability to explain concepts clearly. A good tutor understands not just the math itself, but the test's unique format and strategies—like when to use the calculator, how to work backward from answer choices, and how to manage time. Varsity Tutors connects you with expert tutors who specialize in SAT Math and have a track record of helping students succeed.

Most students benefit from 1-2 sessions per week over 8-12 weeks leading up to the test, though this depends on your starting score and target score. Consistent, focused practice between sessions is just as important as tutoring time—ideally 30-45 minutes of practice several times a week. A tutor can help you create a realistic study plan that fits your schedule while keeping you on track toward your goal.