The ACT Math section gives you 60 minutes to answer 60 questions, which means you have about one minute per question—but harder questions at the end of the test require more thinking time. Many students rush through early questions or get stuck on difficult ones, running out of time for questions they could answer. Tutors help you develop a strategic pacing approach, like identifying which questions to tackle first, which to skip strategically, and how to manage anxiety when the clock is ticking.

The best way is to take a full practice ACT Math test under timed conditions and review every question you missed or guessed on—note whether the issue was understanding the concept, making a careless error, or running out of time. Tutors can analyze your practice test results to pinpoint patterns, like whether you struggle more with algebra, trigonometry, geometry, or word problems. Once you know your weak areas, you can prioritize studying those topics and do targeted practice before moving to full-length tests.

Your first session is about understanding where you're starting from and what you want to achieve. Expect to discuss your current ACT Math score (or take a diagnostic test if you haven't tested yet), your target score, and when you're planning to take the ACT. Your tutor will ask about which topics feel strongest and weakest, and may work through a few sample problems to see your problem-solving approach. This helps create a personalized study plan that focuses on the areas where you'll see the biggest score gains.

Practice tests are essential because they let you experience the real test format, build stamina for 60 minutes of math problems, and identify patterns in what you're missing. Taking full-length practice tests every 2-3 weeks helps you track progress and see whether your weak areas are improving. Between full tests, tutors typically assign targeted practice on specific topics (like quadratic equations or geometry proofs) so you're building skills efficiently rather than just taking test after test.

Test anxiety often stems from feeling unprepared or unsure of your approach to problems, so building real confidence through practice and strategy is the best antidote. Tutors help you develop a calm, systematic approach to each question—like reading carefully, identifying what you're solving for, and checking your work—so you feel more in control during the real test. Regular practice under timed conditions also desensitizes you to the pressure, and tutors can teach you breathing or mental techniques to stay focused when you hit a tough problem.

Most students benefit from 1-2 tutoring sessions per week for 8-12 weeks leading up to their ACT test date. The frequency depends on your starting score, target score, and how much independent practice you're doing between sessions. For example, if you're aiming for a big improvement, twice-weekly sessions with daily practice might be ideal; if you're fine-tuning a strong score, once weekly might be enough. Your tutor can recommend a schedule based on your goals and timeline.

Look for tutors with strong math backgrounds and specific experience preparing students for the ACT—they should understand the test format, question types, and time constraints unique to ACT Math. Ideally, they've helped multiple students improve their scores and can explain not just how to solve problems, but why certain strategies work better on a timed test. Varsity Tutors connects you with expert tutors for students in Baltimore who have proven track records in ACT Math prep and can tailor their approach to your learning style.