Score improvement depends on your starting point, study consistency, and time invested. Many students see 50-150 point improvements over 2-3 months of focused preparation, though results vary. The key is identifying your specific weak areas—whether that's math problem-solving, reading comprehension, or test pacing—and targeting those through personalized instruction and regular practice tests.

Both sections present different challenges. The math section requires quick problem-solving and often tests conceptual understanding rather than just computation, while the reading section demands careful analysis of complex passages under time pressure. Most students struggle with pacing in both sections, so tutoring focuses on building speed without sacrificing accuracy and developing strategies for each question type.

Most students benefit from 2-4 months of focused preparation, though this depends on your baseline skills and test date. A typical study schedule includes weekly tutoring sessions combined with daily practice—ideally 30-45 minutes on weekdays. Starting earlier allows for more thorough review of weak areas and multiple full-length practice tests, which are crucial for building stamina and identifying patterns in your mistakes.

Practice tests serve two critical purposes: they help you get comfortable with the test format and pacing, and they reveal exactly which question types and content areas need work. Taking full-length, timed practice tests under realistic conditions builds the stamina needed for test day and helps reduce test anxiety. Varsity Tutors connects you with tutors who analyze your practice test results to create targeted improvement plans.

Test anxiety often stems from unfamiliarity with the format or fear of running out of time. Personalized tutoring builds confidence through repeated exposure to question types, timed practice, and proven test-taking strategies. Working with a tutor also helps you develop a pacing plan for each section and techniques to stay calm under pressure, like strategic skipping and time management.

The SHSAT includes multiple-choice questions in math and reading. Math questions range from algebra and geometry to word problems, while reading questions test comprehension of passages through detail, inference, and vocabulary questions. Each section has its own rhythm and strategy—for example, reading questions often reward careful re-reading, while math questions demand quick pattern recognition. Tutors help you master the specific approach each question type requires.

Your first session typically includes a diagnostic assessment—either a full practice test or targeted questions—to identify your strengths and weaknesses across both sections. The tutor will discuss your goals, timeline, and any specific concerns (like pacing or particular question types), then create a personalized study plan. This foundation ensures your tutoring is focused on the areas where you'll see the most improvement.