Reading comprehension and math problem-solving are the sections where Chicago students most often need targeted support. In reading, students frequently struggle with identifying main ideas in dense passages, making inferences, and managing time across multiple texts. In math, word problems—especially those requiring multi-step solutions—are a common challenge, along with applying concepts to unfamiliar question formats.

The writing section requires students to organize ideas quickly under time pressure, which can be difficult without practice. A personalized tutoring approach helps by diagnosing exactly where your child gets stuck—whether it's understanding the question, applying the right strategy, or managing pacing—then building those specific skills through targeted practice.

Most students benefit from starting tutoring 8-12 weeks before the test date. This timeline allows time for a diagnostic assessment, targeted skill-building in weak areas, and multiple practice tests with feedback. If your child is significantly below grade-level expectations or faces multiple challenges, starting earlier—such as at the beginning of the school year—provides more flexibility for deeper learning.

Consistency matters more than total hours. Two focused 1-on-1 sessions per week, combined with guided practice between sessions, typically produces stronger results than cramming. Tutors in Chicago can help create a realistic timeline based on your child's specific needs and the test date.

Test anxiety often stems from unfamiliarity with the test format or lack of confidence in problem-solving skills. When students work with a tutor, they practice the actual ISAT question types repeatedly, which builds familiarity and reduces anxiety. Additionally, tutors teach specific test-taking strategies—like pacing techniques and approaches for difficult questions—that give students a sense of control during the actual test.

Personalized tutoring also provides a low-pressure environment to practice, make mistakes, and learn from them without grades affecting motivation. Many students find that as their skills improve and they see better practice test scores, their confidence naturally grows and test anxiety decreases.

Look for tutors with specific experience in ISAT preparation and familiarity with Illinois testing standards. They should be able to diagnose your child's specific weak areas through initial assessments, not just teach general test-taking skills. A strong ISAT tutor understands the nuances of each section—reading comprehension strategies, math problem types, and writing structure—and can explain why answers are correct, not just what the correct answer is.

It's also important that the tutor can adapt their teaching style to your child's learning preferences and help build confidence alongside skills. Varsity Tutors connects you with expert tutors in Chicago who have proven success with ISAT prep and can work with your child's schedule and goals.

Practice tests are essential for ISAT prep because they familiarize students with the actual test format, timing, and question types—reducing surprises on test day. They also help identify specific weak areas that need targeted instruction. Taking a practice test early in tutoring provides a baseline for measuring progress, while regular practice tests throughout preparation help build stamina and refine test-taking strategies.

The most effective approach combines practice tests with tutoring feedback. A tutor can analyze which question types your child missed, whether mistakes came from skill gaps or careless errors, and how pacing affected performance. This insight allows tutors to focus lessons on areas that will have the biggest impact on your child's score.

Yes. Chicago's 12 school districts and 882 schools have varying academic standards and ISAT expectations. Expert tutors in Chicago are familiar with state standards and understand how different schools and districts approach test preparation. They can also help you understand where your child's performance stands relative to grade-level expectations and what improvements are needed.

When you connect with a tutor through Varsity Tutors, you can discuss your child's specific school, current performance level, and the ISAT goals that matter most to your family. This context helps tutors create a preparation plan that's tailored to your situation, not generic.