The SAT Writing and Language section (sometimes called Grammar) tests your ability to identify and correct errors in short passages. You'll see 44 multiple-choice questions across four passages, focusing on grammar, syntax, punctuation, and word choice. Unlike the Reading section, you don't need to understand the big-picture meaning—you're analyzing specific sentences and phrases. Many students find this section more straightforward because the rules are more concrete, but it requires strong grammar knowledge and the ability to work quickly under time pressure.

The biggest challenges are pacing (rushing through passages and making careless errors), misunderstanding question formats (not recognizing what's actually being tested), and gaps in grammar rules (especially subject-verb agreement, pronoun reference, and modifier placement). Many students also struggle with wordiness questions—they don't realize that concise, direct writing is preferred. Working with a tutor to master these patterns through targeted practice tests helps you catch mistakes before test day and build the confidence to work at the right speed.

A solid study schedule includes reviewing grammar rules (2-3 weeks), practicing individual question types (2-3 weeks), then taking full practice tests under timed conditions. Plan to practice at least 1-2 passages per session, review every mistake carefully, and track which question types trip you up most. Most students benefit from spacing practice over several months rather than cramming, and mixing untimed review with timed practice helps you build both accuracy and speed. A tutor can customize this timeline based on your current score and test date.

Test anxiety often stems from feeling unprepared for the question format or worrying about time. Building confidence means practicing full passages repeatedly so they feel familiar, developing a consistent strategy (read the passage, answer questions, review difficult ones), and practicing your pacing until it becomes automatic. Many students also benefit from reviewing their practice test mistakes to realize the errors are fixable and predictable. Getting matched with a tutor who can walk you through your test-taking approach and help you understand why questions trip you up can significantly reduce anxiety and boost performance.

Grammar gaps are extremely common, and the good news is they're fixable with focused study. Start by reviewing the most-tested rules: subject-verb agreement, pronoun reference and agreement, verb tense consistency, modifier placement, and sentence fragments. Practice tests will show you which rules you need to strengthen. A tutor can work with you to fill these gaps efficiently—explaining rules in a way that clicks for you, then reinforcing them through practice questions so they become automatic when you're reading a passage on test day.

Varsity Tutors connects you with expert tutors specializing in SAT Writing and Language who understand the specific challenges students face on this section. When you get matched with a tutor, you can discuss your current score, timeline, and whether you need grammar review, strategy coaching, or both. Tutors can work around your schedule and focus on your specific weak areas, whether that's timing, particular grammar rules, or test-taking confidence. Reach out to get started with personalized 1-on-1 instruction tailored to your goals.