Your first session focuses on understanding where you stand and what you need. Tutors will likely review your practice test results, identify patterns in the questions you're missing, and discuss your goals and timeline. This diagnostic approach helps create a personalized study plan rather than generic test prep, so you're not wasting time on concepts you already know.

The most common struggles are pacing (running out of time on harder problems), understanding what questions are actually asking, and gaps in foundational algebra and geometry. Many students also struggle with the transition from calculator-allowed to calculator-free sections, or they know the math but second-guess themselves under pressure. A tutor can help you build speed through targeted practice and develop confidence in your problem-solving approach.

Pacing improves through deliberate practice with real SAT problems under timed conditions. Tutors help you develop a strategic approach—like skipping hard problems initially to secure easier points, then returning with remaining time. You'll also learn which problem types you solve fastest and which need more mental energy, so you can allocate your 80 minutes more effectively on test day.

Tutors analyze your practice test results by topic—algebra, advanced math, problem-solving, geometry, trigonometry—to pinpoint exactly where you're losing points. They'll also watch you work through problems to see if you're struggling with the concept itself or just the test format. This targeted diagnosis means you focus study time on what actually needs work, not topics you've already mastered.

Most students benefit from taking 3-5 full practice tests under realistic timed conditions, spaced throughout their prep timeline. The first one establishes your baseline, the middle ones help you track progress and refine strategy, and the final one builds confidence before the real test. Between full tests, focused practice on specific topics is more efficient than constantly retaking full sections.

Confidence comes from preparation and familiarity. Working with a tutor means you've seen every problem type, practiced your strategy repeatedly, and know exactly what to expect on test day—which significantly reduces anxiety. Tutors also teach mental strategies for staying calm under pressure, like how to move past a difficult problem without losing focus on the rest of the section.

Look for tutors with strong math backgrounds, proven SAT Math teaching experience, and ideally a track record of helping students improve their scores. They should understand the specific format and question types on the modern SAT, not just general math knowledge. Varsity Tutors connects you with expert tutors who specialize in SAT Math and know how to teach both the content and the test-taking strategies that matter.