Your first session focuses on assessment and planning. A tutor will review your current math skills, discuss your target score, and identify which topics are causing the most trouble—whether that's algebra, geometry, trigonometry, or test-taking strategy. From there, you'll create a personalized study plan that addresses your specific gaps and fits your timeline before test day.

Pacing is one of the biggest challenges on SAT Math, and tutors help by teaching you which problems to tackle first, when to skip and return, and how to manage the 80-minute time limit effectively. Through timed practice tests and targeted drills, you'll build speed on easier problems while developing strategies to handle harder ones without panicking—this combination is often more valuable than just doing more practice.

Tutors typically start with a diagnostic test or review of your practice test results to pinpoint exactly which topics trip you up—maybe it's systems of equations, word problems, or geometry. Rather than re-learning everything, you focus your study time on the 20% of content causing 80% of your missed points, which is far more efficient than generic test prep.

Yes—tutors build confidence by making the test format familiar through repeated practice and by teaching you strategies to stay calm under pressure. When you understand the question types, know your weak spots, and have a solid game plan, anxiety naturally decreases. Many students also benefit from learning breathing techniques and mental strategies that tutors can share during sessions.

Most students benefit from taking a full practice test every 2-3 weeks to track progress and identify emerging patterns in mistakes. Between full tests, targeted drills on specific topics are more efficient than constant practice testing. Your tutor will help you use practice tests strategically—reviewing them carefully matters more than the number you take, so focus on understanding every mistake rather than rushing through tests.

While SAT Math is the same nationwide, Portland students benefit from tutors who understand local school curricula and can connect SAT concepts to what you're already learning in class. Varsity Tutors connects Portland students with tutors who know the area's schools and can tailor prep to your specific background and learning style.

Most students see solid progress with 1-2 tutoring sessions per week plus 5-7 hours of independent practice and review. If you're starting further from your goal or have limited time before test day, you might increase to 2-3 sessions weekly. Your tutor will help you create a realistic schedule that fits your other commitments while building the consistency that drives real improvement.