Score improvement depends on your starting point and commitment level, but students typically see gains of 50-150 points with focused preparation. The key is identifying your specific weaknesses—whether that's pacing, vocabulary, inference questions, or passage comprehension—and targeting those areas with strategic practice. Working with a tutor helps you develop personalized strategies rather than generic test prep, which accelerates improvement.

Timing challenges are one of the most common issues students face on Critical Reading. Effective strategies include previewing questions before reading the passage, identifying question types to prioritize easier ones first, and setting time limits per passage (typically 12-14 minutes). A tutor can help you practice these techniques under timed conditions and find the pacing strategy that works best for your reading speed and comprehension style.

Many students struggle with inference questions that require reading between the lines, vocabulary-in-context questions that test word meaning rather than definition, and identifying the main idea of complex passages. Others find it difficult to distinguish between what the passage explicitly states versus what can be inferred. A diagnostic practice test can pinpoint your specific challenges, allowing you to focus your preparation where it matters most.

Your first session typically includes taking a diagnostic practice test or reviewing your recent PSAT results to identify your strengths and areas for improvement. The tutor will discuss your goals, understand your learning style, and create a personalized study plan tailored to your needs. This foundation helps ensure that every subsequent session focuses on the strategies and content that will have the biggest impact on your score.

Practice tests are essential because they help you build stamina, identify patterns in your mistakes, and practice time management under realistic conditions. Taking full-length practice tests every 1-2 weeks allows you to track progress and adjust your study strategy accordingly. Between full tests, targeted practice on specific question types reinforces skills and builds confidence before test day.

Test anxiety often stems from feeling unprepared or uncertain about strategies, which is why personalized tutoring builds genuine confidence through targeted practice. Techniques like deep breathing, positive self-talk, and practicing under timed conditions help normalize the test experience. Working with a tutor also means you'll have strategies to fall back on if you encounter a difficult passage, reducing panic and helping you stay focused.

Varsity Tutors connects you with expert tutors who specialize in PSAT preparation and have proven success helping students improve their Critical Reading scores. You can share your specific goals and learning preferences, and get matched with a tutor whose expertise aligns with your needs. Whether you're aiming to boost your score before the next test date or building a strong foundation for the SAT, personalized 1-on-1 instruction ensures you get the targeted support that works for your learning style.