Score improvement depends on your starting point, study duration, and effort, but students typically see meaningful gains with focused preparation—often 50-150 points or more over several months. The SHSAT is highly learnable; many students improve significantly once they understand the specific question formats and develop strategic approaches to pacing and problem-solving. A personalized study plan that targets your weaker sections (whether that's reading comprehension, math problem-solving, or writing) tends to yield the strongest results.

The math section tests arithmetic, algebra, geometry, and word problems with a focus on logical reasoning and strategic problem-solving, while the reading section assesses comprehension, inference, and vocabulary through passages and questions. Neither is inherently "harder"—it depends on your strengths. Many students find the reading section more challenging because it requires quick comprehension and careful attention to detail, while others struggle with math pacing and multi-step problems. Identifying which section drains your time and confidence is the first step toward targeted improvement.

Practice tests are essential—they're the best way to understand the test format, identify your weak areas, build stamina, and practice pacing under real time constraints. Taking full-length practice tests regularly (ideally every 1-2 weeks during active prep) gives you concrete data about where you're losing points and helps reduce test anxiety by making the experience familiar. Between practice tests, targeted drills on specific question types help you refine strategies before taking another full exam.

Test anxiety often stems from unfamiliarity with the format or fear of running out of time—both things that practice and strategy can directly address. Building confidence comes from repeatedly practicing under timed conditions, mastering specific question types, and developing a clear game plan for test day (like which sections to tackle first and how to pace yourself). Working with a tutor who can provide real-time feedback, celebrate your progress, and help you develop mental strategies for staying calm under pressure makes a significant difference.

Most students benefit from 3-6 months of focused preparation, depending on their starting level and target score—though this varies widely. A typical week might include 2-3 tutoring sessions (1-2 hours each), daily independent practice on specific question types (30-45 minutes), and one full-length practice test every 1-2 weeks. The key is consistency and quality over quantity; focused, strategic practice beats random cramming every time.

Your first session typically includes a diagnostic assessment—either a full practice test or targeted questions—to identify your baseline score, strengths, and specific weak areas. From there, you and your tutor will discuss your goals, timeline, and learning style to create a personalized study plan. This might include which sections to prioritize, what question types need the most work, and how to structure your weekly practice for maximum improvement.

Varsity Tutors connects you with expert tutors who specialize in SHSAT preparation and understand the test's specific format, pacing challenges, and scoring rubric. When you reach out, you'll be matched with a tutor whose expertise and teaching style fit your needs—whether you need intensive math support, reading comprehension strategies, or full-test preparation. Tutors work with you flexibly to fit your schedule and learning pace.