Your first session typically includes a diagnostic assessment to understand your current strengths and weaknesses across the four sections: Analytical Writing, Integrated Reasoning, Quantitative, and Verbal. Tutors will review your goals, timeline, and any previous test attempts, then work with you to develop a personalized study roadmap. This foundation helps ensure every subsequent session builds directly toward your target score.

Pacing is one of the most common GMAT challenges—you have roughly 2 minutes per Quantitative question and 1.5-2 minutes per Verbal question. Tutors teach you to recognize question patterns quickly, identify which problems to tackle first, and when to make strategic guesses to stay on track. Through timed practice tests and section-by-section drills, you'll build the rhythm needed to complete all questions without rushing through the end.

Practice tests are essential—they simulate the actual exam experience, help you identify pacing issues, and reveal patterns in your mistakes. Most tutors recommend taking full-length practice tests every 1-2 weeks, starting early in your prep timeline. Between tests, you'll focus on targeted drills for weak areas, then use the next practice test to measure improvement and adjust your strategy.

The Quantitative section challenges many test-takers because it requires both speed and accuracy in algebra, geometry, and data analysis—skills that may feel rusty if you haven't done formal math in years. The Verbal section trips up others due to complex reading passages and subtle grammar rules in Sentence Correction. A tutor can pinpoint whether your challenge is conceptual understanding, time pressure, or test anxiety, then address the root cause.

Most students benefit from 8-12 weeks of structured preparation, though your timeline depends on your starting score and target goal. If you're aiming for a top business school, you may need longer to master the higher-difficulty questions. Tutors help you create a realistic schedule that balances thorough review with consistent practice, typically involving 5-8 hours of study per week alongside tutoring sessions.

Test anxiety often stems from feeling unprepared or unsure of your approach to questions. Working with a tutor builds confidence through repeated exposure to question types, timed practice, and clear strategies for each section. Tutors also help you develop mental techniques—like taking deep breaths between questions and maintaining perspective on individual mistakes—so you stay calm and focused on test day.

Look for tutors with strong GMAT scores (typically 700+), experience teaching the specific sections you struggle with, and a track record of helping students reach their target scores. Varsity Tutors connects you with expert tutors who understand the nuances of GMAT question design and can explain concepts clearly. A good fit also means finding someone who understands your learning style and can adapt their teaching approach to keep you motivated throughout your prep.