The ACT Math section gives you 60 minutes for 60 questions, so pacing is critical. Most students benefit from tackling easier questions first, then returning to harder ones—this builds momentum and ensures you don't miss points on questions you can solve. A tutor can help you practice this strategy repeatedly so it becomes automatic on test day, plus teach you which types of problems typically take longer and how to recognize when to skip and move on.

The biggest hurdles are usually pacing (running out of time), careless errors under pressure, and gaps in foundational algebra and geometry skills. Many students also struggle with word problems because they require translating language into equations. Personalized 1-on-1 instruction helps identify which of these is holding you back—whether you need to strengthen fundamentals, practice test-taking strategies, or build confidence through repeated practice with similar question types.

Practice tests are essential because they build familiarity with the format, help you identify weak areas, and train you to work under timed conditions. Most students benefit from taking 3-5 full practice tests during their prep, spaced out over several weeks. A tutor can review your practice test results with you to pinpoint patterns in your mistakes and adjust your study plan accordingly, rather than just drilling random problems.

Look for tutors with strong math backgrounds and specific ACT prep experience—they should understand not just the content but the unique format and timing of the test. Ideally, they've worked with multiple students and can explain their approach to test strategy, not just math concepts. When you connect with Varsity Tutors, you get matched with an expert tutor who has proven success helping students master ACT Math and can tailor lessons to your learning style.

Your first session is typically a diagnostic conversation where the tutor learns about your goals, current score (if you've taken the test), and which topics feel most challenging. They may have you work through a few sample problems to assess your strengths and gaps, then create a personalized study plan with you. This foundation ensures every future lesson is targeted to what you actually need to improve, rather than generic test prep.

Denton's schools and public library often offer test prep resources and study spaces, which can be helpful for independent practice between tutoring sessions. However, personalized 1-on-1 instruction is where you'll see the biggest gains—a tutor can give you targeted feedback and strategies that generic resources can't. Many students in the Denton area find that combining focused tutoring with self-directed practice and full-length practice tests creates the most effective prep plan.

Test anxiety often stems from feeling unprepared or uncertain about problem-solving strategies. A tutor builds confidence by helping you master the content, practice under timed conditions repeatedly, and develop a reliable approach to each question type. When you've solved similar problems dozens of times with feedback, test day feels less intimidating—you know what to expect and trust your skills.