The Reading section tests comprehension, inference, and analysis of passages, while the Writing section focuses on grammar, syntax, and rhetorical skills. Most students find Reading harder because it requires both speed and deep understanding—you have limited time to read passages and answer questions accurately. Writing is more rule-based, so it's often easier to improve quickly once you master the grammar patterns the test emphasizes.

Pacing is about prioritizing, not rushing. Spend 2-3 minutes per passage (depending on length) and 30-45 seconds per question, but skip difficult questions and return to them if time allows. Many students waste time on one hard question when they could answer three easier ones. A tutor can help you identify which question types you naturally solve faster and create a personalized pacing strategy that matches your strengths.

Traditional vocab lists are less effective than understanding how words function in context, which is what the SAT actually tests. Instead of memorizing isolated words, focus on learning word roots, prefixes, and suffixes—these patterns help you decode unfamiliar words during the test. Reading challenging material regularly (literary fiction, academic articles, quality journalism) naturally builds the vocabulary the SAT expects.

Take a full practice test every 2-3 weeks to track progress and identify patterns in your mistakes. Between full tests, do targeted practice on specific question types or passages where you struggle. This balanced approach prevents burnout while giving you concrete data about what's improving and what needs more focus. Your tutor can help you analyze each practice test to pinpoint exactly where points are being lost.

Test anxiety often stems from feeling unprepared or uncertain about strategies. Building genuine confidence through repeated practice with real SAT questions helps significantly—when you've seen similar questions dozens of times, the test feels less intimidating. Developing a pre-test routine (specific breathing techniques, positive self-talk, reviewing your strategy) also helps. A tutor can work with you on both skill-building and test-day mindset to reduce anxiety.

Your first session focuses on assessment and planning. Your tutor will review your current score (or have you take a diagnostic), discuss your target score and timeline, and identify your specific challenges—whether that's reading speed, grammar concepts, or question-type confusion. Together, you'll create a personalized study plan that plays to your strengths while systematically improving weak areas.

Look for tutors with proven SAT expertise, familiarity with current test formats, and experience helping students at your score level. They should be able to explain not just the right answer, but why other options are wrong—this develops the critical thinking the SAT rewards. For Manhattan students, Varsity Tutors connects you with expert tutors who understand the test deeply and can adapt their teaching to your learning style and goals.