Most students struggle with pacing because they try to read every word carefully—but the PSAT rewards strategic reading and smart skimming. The section gives you about 1.5 minutes per question, which is tight if you're reading passages word-for-word. A tutor can teach you how to preview questions first, identify what you actually need to find in the passage, and practice efficient reading strategies that keep you moving without sacrificing accuracy.

The PSAT Reading section focuses on comprehension questions (main idea, author's purpose, tone), vocabulary-in-context questions, and inference questions. You'll also encounter questions about evidence—where you need to identify which sentence supports your answer. Understanding the specific format of each question type helps you know exactly what to look for in the passage, which saves time and reduces mistakes. Tutoring can help you practice recognizing these patterns and developing a strategy for each type.

Taking a full practice test and reviewing it carefully is the best way to identify patterns in your mistakes. Look at whether you're missing more main idea questions, inference questions, or vocabulary questions—and whether you're running out of time or making careless errors. Varsity Tutors connects you with tutors who can analyze your practice test results, pinpoint exactly where you're losing points, and create a study plan that focuses your effort where it matters most.

Most students benefit from taking 3-5 full practice tests spaced throughout their preparation period, starting with one diagnostic test to establish a baseline. The key is not just taking tests, but reviewing every single question you missed to understand why—this is where real improvement happens. A tutor can guide you through effective practice test review and help you adjust your strategy based on what the tests reveal about your strengths and weaknesses.

Test anxiety often stems from feeling unprepared or unsure of your approach—so confidence comes from practicing under realistic timed conditions and having a solid strategy. Tutors can help you develop a pre-test routine, teach you breathing techniques to stay calm, and build confidence through repeated practice with feedback. Working through practice questions and tests with expert guidance also helps you feel more in control and less overwhelmed on test day.

Memorizing random vocab lists is less effective than learning words in context—the PSAT tests vocabulary by showing you a word in a passage and asking what it means there. Instead of flashcards, focus on understanding how context clues (surrounding words and sentence structure) help you figure out meaning, even if you don't know the word. A tutor can teach you strategies for using context effectively and help you build vocabulary through actual PSAT passages and questions.

Your first session typically includes taking a diagnostic practice test or reviewing a recent one you've taken, so your tutor can understand your current level and identify your specific challenges. You'll discuss your goals, timeline, and any concerns about test anxiety or specific question types. From there, your tutor will create a personalized study plan and begin teaching you strategies tailored to your needs—whether that's improving pacing, strengthening inference skills, or building confidence.