Score improvement depends on your starting point and how consistently you prepare. Students typically see meaningful gains of 100-200 points (on the combined score scale) over 8-12 weeks of focused preparation, though some improve more quickly by identifying and targeting specific weak areas. The key is consistent practice combined with strategic feedback on test-taking patterns—tutoring helps you work smarter, not just harder.

Pacing and time management are the most common obstacles—students often rush through easier questions or spend too long on difficult ones, leaving no time for review. Additionally, many students struggle with the specific question formats, particularly inference-heavy reading comprehension and multi-step word problems. Expert tutors help you develop a personalized pacing strategy and teach you how to recognize question types quickly so you can allocate time more effectively.

Not necessarily—it depends on your strengths and weaknesses. Some students excel in math but struggle with reading comprehension, while others find the verbal reasoning section most challenging. A personalized tutoring approach starts by identifying which sections need the most work through diagnostic practice tests, then allocates study time accordingly. This targeted method is much more efficient than generic test prep.

Practice tests are essential—they're your best tool for understanding your actual performance under timed conditions and identifying specific patterns in your mistakes. Taking full-length practice tests every 2-3 weeks allows you to track progress and adjust your strategy. Beyond just taking tests, reviewing each one with a tutor to understand why you missed questions is where real improvement happens.

Test anxiety is common, but it's manageable with the right preparation and mindset strategies. Familiarity with the test format, consistent practice under timed conditions, and learning breathing or grounding techniques all help reduce anxiety. Tutors can also teach you mental strategies like breaking the test into smaller chunks and focusing on one question at a time rather than thinking about the overall score.

Most students benefit from 8-12 weeks of focused preparation, though this varies based on your baseline skills and target score. If you're aiming for a highly competitive school, starting earlier gives you time to build strong fundamentals and take multiple practice tests. A tutor can help you create a customized study schedule that fits your timeline and learning pace.

Your first session typically includes a diagnostic assessment—either a practice test or targeted questions—to identify your current strengths and weaknesses across all three sections. From there, a tutor will discuss your target score, timeline, and any specific concerns you have about the test. Together, you'll create a personalized study plan that focuses on the areas where you'll see the biggest score gains.