Score improvement depends on your starting point and how consistently you prepare. Most students who work with a tutor see meaningful gains—typically 50-100+ points—when they commit to regular practice over several months. The key is identifying your specific weak areas (whether that's reading comprehension, math problem-solving, or pacing) and targeting those through focused study and practice tests.

The math section tests algebra, geometry, and arithmetic concepts with both multiple-choice and grid-in questions, requiring you to show your work and manage time carefully. The reading section assesses comprehension and vocabulary through passages and questions that test your ability to find details, make inferences, and understand main ideas. Many students find the reading section more challenging because it requires strong time management—you typically have less time per question than the math section.

Practice tests are essential—they help you understand the test format, identify weak areas, and build stamina for the full-length exam. Taking timed practice tests regularly (ideally every 1-2 weeks) shows you which question types slow you down and where you're making careless errors. After each practice test, reviewing your mistakes with a tutor helps you develop strategies to avoid those errors on test day.

Timing is one of the biggest challenges students face on the SHSAT. The math section gives you roughly 2.5 minutes per question, while reading gives you even less. A tutor can help you develop a pacing strategy—like skipping harder questions initially and returning to them, or learning which question types you can solve quickly. Practice tests are crucial for building the speed and confidence you need to manage time effectively.

In your first session, a tutor will assess your current skills by reviewing your practice test results or giving you a diagnostic test to identify your strengths and weaknesses. You'll discuss your goals, timeline, and any specific concerns (like test anxiety or struggling with word problems). From there, your tutor will create a personalized study plan that targets your weak areas and builds toward your score goal.

Test anxiety often stems from feeling unprepared or unfamiliar with the test format. Regular practice with a tutor builds confidence because you're solving real SHSAT questions repeatedly, which makes the test feel less intimidating on exam day. Your tutor can also teach you calming strategies, help you manage pacing so you're not rushing, and remind you that mistakes during practice are learning opportunities—not reflections of your ability.

Most students benefit from 3-6 months of consistent preparation, though this varies based on your starting level and score goals. If you're already strong in math and reading, you might need less time to focus on test-specific strategies and timing. A tutor can assess where you're starting and create a realistic timeline—typically involving 1-2 sessions per week plus independent practice with practice tests and problem sets.