Most students see meaningful improvement with focused practice—typically 40-80 points over 2-3 months of consistent work. The amount depends on your starting score and how much time you dedicate to targeted practice. Personalized tutoring helps identify your specific weak areas (grammar rules, pacing, question types) so you can improve faster than studying alone.

El Paso students typically struggle with pacing (not finishing all 44 questions in time), identifying subtle grammar errors, and understanding the difference between correct and best-answer choices. Many also find the punctuation rules and sentence combining questions confusing. Tutors can help you develop faster recognition strategies and break down complex grammar concepts into manageable rules.

With 50 minutes for 44 questions, you have roughly 1 minute per question. The key is reading each passage quickly but carefully, then answering questions in order—don't skip around. Practice tests are essential for building speed; most students improve their pacing significantly after completing 3-5 full practice sections under timed conditions. A tutor can help you identify which question types slow you down and teach you efficient strategies for each.

Aim for 3-4 focused practice sessions per week, with each session lasting 20-30 minutes on specific question types or a full timed section. Consistency matters more than marathon study sessions. Spaced practice—revisiting the same concepts over time—helps your brain retain grammar rules and question-solving strategies. Personalized tutoring helps you structure your practice schedule around your weaker areas for maximum improvement.

Varsity Tutors connects you with tutors who can diagnose your specific weaknesses—whether that's grammar rules, sentence combining, or pacing—and create a targeted study plan. They'll teach you test-specific strategies for each question type, help you understand why certain answers are correct, and build your confidence through practice and feedback. One-on-one instruction is especially effective for test prep because tutors can adapt to your learning style and focus on what actually holds you back.

Test anxiety often stems from uncertainty about question formats or grammar rules. The best antidote is familiarity—taking multiple practice tests under real conditions builds confidence and reduces panic. Tutors can also teach you breathing techniques and time-management strategies that reduce stress during the actual test. Starting tutoring several months before test day gives you time to practice extensively and feel genuinely prepared.

Ideally, start 3-4 months before your test date to allow time for skill-building and practice. If you're taking the SAT in spring, begin in winter; for fall testing, start in summer. Even if your test date is sooner, starting now with a tutor can help you make significant progress. For students in El Paso's 13 school districts, connecting with a tutor early gives you the personalized guidance needed to maximize your score improvement timeline.