The SAT Math section gives you 80 minutes for 58 questions, so pacing is crucial. A smart approach is to work through easier questions first to build momentum and secure those points, then tackle medium and harder problems. Many students benefit from skipping difficult questions initially and returning to them if time allows, rather than getting stuck and running out of time for questions they could answer. Tutors can help you practice this strategy through timed practice tests so it becomes automatic on test day.

Start by taking a full-length practice test and reviewing your mistakes carefully. Look for patterns—do you struggle more with algebra, advanced math, problem-solving, geometry, or data analysis? Once you identify your weak areas, work with a tutor to strengthen those specific topics through targeted practice rather than reviewing everything. This focused approach is much more efficient and helps you make the most of your study time.

Taking practice tests regularly helps you identify weak areas, get comfortable with the test format, and practice pacing under real conditions. Many students benefit from taking a full-length practice test every 1-2 weeks during active SAT prep, with more frequent shorter section tests in between. After each test, spend time reviewing every mistake—not just getting the right answer, but understanding why you missed it and how to approach similar problems differently next time.

Test anxiety often comes from feeling unprepared or unsure about problem-solving strategies. Building confidence through repeated practice with a tutor—tackling similar problems multiple times and seeing yourself improve—is one of the most effective ways to reduce anxiety. On test day, helpful strategies include taking deep breaths between questions, reminding yourself that you can skip hard questions and come back later, and focusing on accuracy over speed. A tutor can help you practice these mental techniques alongside content review.

The SAT Math section includes multiple-choice questions and student-produced response questions (where you enter your answer). Questions span four content areas: algebra, advanced math, problem-solving and data analysis, and geometry and trigonometry. Each type requires slightly different approaches—for example, multiple-choice questions sometimes allow you to work backwards from answer choices, while student-produced response questions require you to solve from scratch. Understanding the strengths and strategies for each format helps you work more efficiently on test day.

If possible, take a practice test or complete a math section before your first session so your tutor can see where you're starting from and which topics need the most attention. Bring a list of specific questions or topics that confuse you, and be honest about how much time you have before test day. The more information you share about your learning style and goals, the better your tutor can customize their approach to help you improve efficiently. Having this foundation helps you make the most of every session.