The biggest challenges are usually pacing (running out of time), misunderstanding question formats, and gaps in foundational algebra or geometry concepts. Many students also struggle with the shift from classroom math to standardized test thinking—where you need to work efficiently and avoid careless errors. A tutor can help you build speed through practice, teach strategic shortcuts, and shore up any conceptual gaps before test day.

Your first session focuses on assessment and planning. A tutor will review your current SAT Math skills, discuss your target score, and identify your specific weak areas—whether that's word problems, geometry, or time management. From there, you'll develop a personalized study plan with clear milestones and practice strategies tailored to your learning style.

Practice tests are essential—they help you understand the test format, build stamina, and identify patterns in the types of questions you struggle with. Taking full-length practice tests under timed conditions also reveals your pacing issues and helps you develop strategies to manage time better on test day. Your tutor can review your practice test results to pinpoint exactly which concepts need more work.

Test anxiety often stems from feeling unprepared or uncertain about strategies. Working with a tutor builds genuine confidence by ensuring you understand the material and have practiced extensively under realistic conditions. Tutors also teach mental strategies—like breaking problems into steps, taking deep breaths, and knowing when to skip and come back—that help you stay calm and focused during the test.

Look for tutors with strong math backgrounds and proven experience helping students prepare for standardized tests. Ideally, they understand both the math content and the specific strategies that work on the SAT—like recognizing question patterns and managing time effectively. Varsity Tutors connects you with expert tutors who have a track record of helping students improve their scores.

Most students benefit from 5-8 hours per week of focused preparation over 8-12 weeks, though this varies based on your starting score and target. Consistency matters more than volume—regular, focused study sessions are more effective than cramming. Your tutor can help you create a realistic schedule that fits your life and builds momentum toward test day.

Taking a full practice test is the best way to see where you struggle—whether that's algebra, geometry, data analysis, or test-taking strategy. A tutor can analyze your results in detail, showing you exactly which question types and concepts trip you up most often. From there, you can focus your study time on the areas that will have the biggest impact on your score.