The test includes three scored sections: Verbal Reasoning (synonyms and analogies), Math (arithmetic and problem-solving), and Reading Comprehension. There's also an unscored Writing section where students complete a short essay prompt. Each section requires different strategies—for example, math focuses on conceptual understanding and careful calculation, while reading emphasizes finding key details and main ideas in passages.

Score improvement depends on your child's starting point and the areas needing work. Many students see meaningful gains—typically 5-15 percentile points—by identifying weak areas (like specific math concepts or reading strategies), practicing with real test questions, and building test-taking confidence. Consistent practice over 8-12 weeks, combined with targeted instruction, helps students develop the pacing and accuracy needed for their target schools.

Varsity Tutors connects you with a tutor who will assess your child's current skills, understand which schools they're targeting, and identify specific challenges—whether that's time management, understanding question formats, or mastering particular math concepts. This diagnostic approach helps create a personalized study plan focused on your child's needs rather than generic test prep.

Many elementary students struggle with pacing—rushing through easy questions or spending too much time on difficult ones. Tutors teach strategic approaches like identifying question difficulty, knowing when to skip and return, and managing the time per section. Practice with timed drills and full-length practice tests helps students develop a realistic sense of pace and build the stamina needed for test day.

Test anxiety often stems from unfamiliarity with the format or fear of making mistakes. By working through real practice questions, understanding what to expect, and building competence in weak areas, students gain confidence and reduce anxiety. Tutors also teach breathing techniques and mindset strategies—like reframing mistakes as learning opportunities—that help students stay calm and focused during the actual test.

Most students benefit from 8-12 weeks of focused preparation, meeting 1-2 times per week with a tutor. The timeline depends on your target test date and your child's starting level. Starting earlier allows for a more relaxed pace and deeper mastery of challenging concepts, while shorter timelines require more intensive sessions. Varsity Tutors helps you create a realistic schedule based on your child's needs and school deadlines.

Practice tests reveal exactly where your child struggles—whether it's a specific math skill, reading speed, or managing multiple sections in one sitting. They also build familiarity with the test format, reduce test-day surprises, and help establish a realistic baseline for score improvement. Tutors use practice test results to guide instruction and track progress over time, ensuring preparation stays focused and effective.