Timing is one of the biggest challenges students face on the PSAT Math section. The test gives you 70 minutes for two modules with 22 questions each, which means learning to recognize which problems are worth spending 2 minutes on versus 30 seconds is critical.

An effective strategy is to work through easier questions first to secure those points, then return to harder problems if time allows. Tutors can help you practice this pacing strategy repeatedly with real PSAT questions so it becomes automatic on test day, and they can teach you when to skip strategically rather than spending too long on a single problem.

The best approach is to take a full-length practice PSAT and review your results by topic area—algebra, advanced math, problem-solving, and geometry/trigonometry. You'll likely notice patterns, like consistently missing certain question types or struggling with word problems.

Varsity Tutors connects you with expert tutors who can analyze your practice test results and pinpoint exactly which concepts need work, then create a targeted study plan that focuses your effort on those areas. This is much more efficient than trying to review everything, and it prevents you from wasting time on topics you already understand.

Word problems are challenging because they require you to translate English into mathematical equations, then solve—it's really two skills in one. Many students struggle with the translation step or get confused by unnecessary information in the problem. The good news is this is a learnable skill with practice.

Tutors can teach you a systematic approach: identify what you're looking for, write out the equation step-by-step, and check your answer makes sense in the context of the original problem. Working through word problems with a tutor who can ask clarifying questions and explain your errors immediately is far more effective than reviewing them alone.

Test anxiety often stems from uncertainty about whether you can solve problems under pressure. Personalized tutoring builds genuine confidence by letting you practice with real PSAT questions, get immediate feedback, and understand exactly why you're getting answers right or wrong—not just memorizing solutions.

Tutors also help you develop a calm, systematic approach to pacing and problem-solving, which gives you concrete strategies to rely on when nerves kick in. Repeatedly practicing under timed conditions with a tutor's guidance transforms anxiety into confidence because you've literally done this before and succeeded.

Most students benefit from taking 3-4 full-length practice PSATs spaced across their study period, rather than all at once. The first practice test helps identify weak areas, the middle ones let you practice your targeted improvements, and the final one should simulate actual test conditions as closely as possible.

Between practice tests, focus on drilling specific topics with a tutor. Taking endless practice tests without reviewing errors wastes time, but taking them strategically with professional guidance on what to improve in between creates meaningful score gains.

The ideal timeline is 8-12 weeks of consistent preparation, ideally starting several months before test day. This gives you time to diagnose weak areas (2-3 weeks), target those areas with focused study (4-6 weeks), and then practice full-length tests and refine your approach (2-3 weeks). For students in Detroit with access to expert tutors, even 6-8 weeks of focused 1-on-1 work can produce significant improvements if you commit to regular practice between sessions.

Starting with an initial assessment session with a tutor helps you create a realistic timeline based on your current skills and target score.