An all-in-one class gives you flexibility to discover which test aligns better with your skills and test-taking style—without wasting time later switching gears. You'll learn overlapping content (math fundamentals, reading comprehension strategies) that applies to both tests, then focus on the unique sections where each test differs. This approach also helps you understand different question formats and timing strategies, making you a stronger test-taker overall. For Los Angeles students managing busy schedules, this efficiency means you can prepare for both options while saving time and staying confident.

Score improvements vary based on your starting point and effort, but students typically see gains of 2-4 ACT points or 100-200 SAT points with focused preparation. Students starting below the national average (ACT ~21, SAT ~1050) often see larger jumps when they address foundational gaps or test-taking strategies. Improvement depends on consistent practice, targeted feedback on weak areas, and understanding the specific question types that trip you up. Working with a tutor helps you identify exactly where you're losing points—whether it's pacing issues, careless mistakes, or concept gaps—so your study time targets what actually matters.

Pacing is one of the biggest challenges students face, especially on the ACT where time pressure is intense. Tutors teach specific strategies like which questions to tackle first, how to skip and return strategically, and how to allocate time based on your strengths. You'll practice these techniques extensively with timed drills so they become automatic on test day—not something you have to think about. Tutors also help you identify your personal pacing patterns (are you rushing through easy questions? spending too long on hard ones?) so you can adjust. Building this confidence through repeated practice is what transforms anxiety into strategy.

Most students benefit from taking 5-8 full-length practice tests spread throughout their prep timeline. Early tests help identify weak areas; middle tests let you practice new strategies; final tests build stamina and confidence under realistic conditions. The key isn't the number—it's how you use them. After each practice test, you should review every question you missed or guessed on, understand why the right answer is correct, and identify patterns in your mistakes. Tutors use practice test results to guide your study focus, ensuring you're not just taking tests but learning from them. Spacing them out with 1-2 weeks between tests also gives you time to improve between attempts.

Reading comprehension and math require completely different skills and strategies. Math struggles usually stem from concept gaps (forgetting formulas, misunderstanding problem types) or careless errors, and tutors address these through targeted skill-building and error analysis. Reading challenges typically involve time pressure, missing main ideas, or misinterpreting what questions are asking—tutors help with active reading strategies and question-type recognition. In an all-in-one class, you'll discover which section is your natural strength and where you need focused work, then adjust your prep time accordingly. Since the SAT and ACT weight these sections differently (ACT includes science, SAT doesn't), having expert guidance on both helps you pick the test that plays to your profile.

Start by connecting with Varsity Tutors to discuss your goals, timeline, and current prep status. A tutor will assess where you're starting from (whether through practice tests or conversation about your strengths), then customize a plan that explores both the ACT and SAT. You'll typically begin with diagnostic tests for both exams to see which feels like a better fit, build foundational skills alongside test-specific strategies, and progressively increase practice test frequency as test day approaches. With 712 schools across Los Angeles, timing varies—students preparing for spring tests often start 3-4 months out, while fall test-takers may start earlier. The tutor will map out a realistic schedule that fits your commitments.