Most students struggle with pacing through four passages in 90 minutes, especially when they get stuck on difficult vocabulary or complex inference questions. The key is developing a strategic approach: preview the passage structure, prioritize questions by difficulty, and learn when to move on rather than overthinking. A tutor can help you practice this timing strategy with real PSAT passages, identify which question types slow you down the most, and build speed without sacrificing accuracy through targeted drills.

Start by taking a full PSAT practice test under timed conditions, then analyze your results by question category: vocabulary in context, main idea/purpose, inference, author tone, and supporting evidence. Look for patterns—do certain question types consistently trip you up, or do specific passage types (literature, history, science) give you more trouble? Connecting with a tutor for students in Chicago can help you systematically diagnose these patterns through diagnostic testing and practice, so you spend your study time on what actually needs improvement rather than reviewing concepts you already know.

Not entirely—the PSAT tests vocabulary in context, meaning you can often figure out word meanings from surrounding sentences even if you don't know the word itself. However, recognizing high-frequency academic vocabulary (words like "tenuous," "pragmatic," or "ameliorate") saves you time and helps you understand nuance in dense passages. A balanced approach combines context-clue strategies with learning the 300-400 most commonly tested PSAT words. Tutors can show you how to efficiently build vocabulary and practice applying context clues under timed conditions.

Aim for a full practice test every 2-3 weeks during active preparation, with targeted mini-drills on specific question types between full tests. This schedule gives you enough tests to track progress and identify patterns without overloading yourself. Once you identify weak areas, spend focused time on those specific question types before taking your next full test. A tutor can help you create a personalized study schedule, review your practice test results to pinpoint what to focus on next, and ensure you're using practice tests strategically rather than just going through the motions.

Test anxiety often stems from uncertainty about whether you'll be able to finish or worry that you're missing something. Build confidence by taking multiple practice tests under authentic timed conditions—this familiarity with the test format and pacing reduces anxiety significantly. You'll also want strategies for moments when you're stuck: learning to move past difficult questions, use process of elimination effectively, and manage your time so you're not rushing at the end. Working with a tutor helps you practice staying calm under pressure and develop concrete techniques for handling tough passages, which transforms anxiety into confidence based on actual skill.

Varsity Tutors connects you with expert tutors who specialize in PSAT prep and understand the specific challenges of the Critical Reading section. When you connect with a tutor, look for someone with proven test prep experience, familiarity with PSAT question formats and timing strategies, and the ability to diagnose your specific weak areas quickly. A good fit means someone who can explain question strategy clearly, give you meaningful feedback on practice tests, and adapt their teaching to your learning style—whether you're a visual learner, need detailed explanations, or learn best through practice and immediate feedback.