The ACT Math section gives you 60 minutes for 60 questions, so pacing is critical. Expert tutors recommend spending about 1 minute per question on average, but strategically—tackle easier questions first to build confidence and bank time for harder ones. Your tutor will teach you to recognize question types quickly, skip strategically rather than get stuck, and use the last few minutes to fill in any blanks. Practice tests are essential for developing this timing instinct before test day.

Start by taking a full-length practice ACT and reviewing your results by topic—the ACT breaks down performance across algebra, geometry, trigonometry, and other skill areas. Varsity Tutors connects you with tutors who will analyze your practice test results to pinpoint patterns, like whether you struggle with word problems, coordinate geometry, or specific algebraic concepts. Once you know your weak spots, your tutor can create a targeted study plan that maximizes improvement in the areas that will have the biggest impact on your score.

Most students benefit from 3-4 focused study sessions per week, with each session lasting 45-90 minutes depending on your timeline and current score. You'll typically start seeing measurable improvement within 4-6 weeks of consistent practice combined with tutoring, though significant score jumps often take 8-12 weeks. The key is quality over quantity—working through problems with your tutor, understanding the 'why' behind answers, and reviewing mistakes matters far more than grinding through hundreds of problems mindlessly.

Test anxiety often stems from unfamiliarity with question formats or lack of confidence in your problem-solving skills. Tutoring builds confidence through repeated exposure to real ACT questions and timed practice, so test day feels less like a surprise and more like something you've already done many times. Your tutor will also teach you calming strategies—like which problems to skip, how to reset mentally between questions, and how to manage the pressure of the ticking clock—so you can stay focused and composed when it matters most.

ACT Math focuses heavily on algebra (around 35%), geometry (around 25%), and trigonometry (around 10%), with the rest covering data analysis and other topics. The questions range from straightforward computation to word problems that require careful reading and setup. Expert tutors will teach you to recognize each question type quickly, understand what's being asked, and apply the most efficient solution strategy—whether that's plugging in answer choices, working backwards, or using a formula. Practicing each type repeatedly helps you develop automatic recognition and faster problem-solving on test day.

Look for tutors with strong math backgrounds, proven experience teaching ACT prep, and ideally a track record of helping students improve their scores. Varsity Tutors connects you with tutors who understand the specific demands of the ACT Math section—not just general math knowledge, but expertise in test strategy, time management, and the exact question formats you'll face. The best tutors combine subject mastery with the ability to explain concepts clearly and identify exactly where you're getting stuck.

Your first session is all about assessment and planning. Your tutor will likely have you take a practice ACT Math section or review your previous test results to understand your current level, identify weak areas, and set realistic improvement goals. From there, you'll work together to create a customized study plan that targets your specific needs—whether that's building foundational algebra skills, mastering geometry concepts, or refining test-taking strategy. This personalized approach ensures every tutoring session moves you closer to your target score.