Both sections present different challenges. The reading section often trips up students because it requires quick comprehension of dense passages and careful attention to subtle wording—skills that take time to develop. The math section typically has more straightforward improvement potential because weak areas are often easy to identify (like specific algebra concepts or geometry topics). A tutor can diagnose exactly where you're losing points in each section and create a focused plan. Many students find that working with a tutor on pacing strategies actually helps them improve both sections simultaneously.

A solid preparation strategy typically includes 4-6 full-length practice tests spread across your tutoring timeline. Early on (first 2-3 weeks), one practice test helps establish your baseline and identify weak areas. Then, take another test every 2-3 weeks as you work through targeted skill-building. This spacing allows time for instruction and practice between tests, so you can actually measure improvement rather than just repeating the same mistakes. Your tutor can analyze each practice test to pinpoint exactly which question types or topics need more work.

Absolutely. Test anxiety often stems from feeling unprepared or unsure about how to approach different question types. Working with a tutor builds confidence through familiarity—you'll practice the actual test format repeatedly, learn proven test-taking strategies, and develop a sense of control over pacing and question approach. Many students find that understanding why an answer is correct (not just getting the right answer) significantly reduces anxiety. Your tutor can also teach specific techniques for managing time pressure and staying focused during the test.

Timing issues are one of the most common PSAT challenges, and they're very fixable with the right strategy. A tutor can teach you prioritization techniques—like identifying which questions to tackle first based on difficulty, skipping hard problems strategically, and knowing when to guess rather than spend 3 minutes on one question. You'll also practice under timed conditions to build speed naturally. Often, students who struggle with timing aren't actually slower thinkers—they're spending too long on low-value questions. A tutor helps you distinguish between productive struggle and unproductive time-wasting.

The best way is to take a full-length practice test under timed conditions, then analyze it thoroughly—not just which questions you got wrong, but why you got them wrong. Did you misread the question? Lack knowledge of a specific concept? Run out of time? Make a careless mistake? Varsity Tutors connects you with tutors who excel at this diagnostic work. They review your practice tests question-by-question to identify patterns in your mistakes, which reveals whether your challenges are concept-based, strategy-based, or time-management-based. This insight is crucial for creating an effective study plan.

Ideally, start preparing 6-8 weeks before test day (typically October for juniors). This timeline gives you enough time to identify weak areas, work through targeted instruction, take practice tests, and build confidence without cramming. However, even 4 weeks of focused tutoring can make a meaningful difference if you're short on time. Starting earlier is valuable if you're aiming for a top score or if you anticipate needing significant help with specific sections. Check with your Detroit-area school for the exact test date at your school, then work backward to plan your prep timeline.