Score improvement depends on starting level, study duration, and consistency, but students typically see gains of 50-150+ points with focused preparation over 3-6 months. The SHSAT is scored on a scale of roughly 150-230, so even modest improvements can meaningfully impact admission chances. Regular practice tests, targeted skill-building, and strategic test-taking techniques are key drivers of improvement—personalized 1-on-1 instruction helps identify and address specific weak areas faster than self-study alone.

Both sections present unique challenges: math requires quick problem-solving and pattern recognition under time pressure, while reading demands strong comprehension and the ability to cite textual evidence efficiently. Many students find the reading section more difficult because it tests interpretation and nuance rather than just procedural skills, but this varies by individual strength. A tutor can assess which section needs more focus and develop targeted strategies—for example, teaching annotation techniques for reading or time-management tactics for math.

Test anxiety often stems from unfamiliarity with question formats and uncertainty about timing—tutoring directly addresses both by building mastery through repeated practice. When students work through dozens of authentic SHSAT questions with expert guidance, they develop confidence in their problem-solving approach and learn to manage time effectively. Tutors also teach stress-reduction strategies like breaking problems into steps, eliminating answer choices methodically, and pacing techniques that make the test feel less overwhelming.

The SHSAT gives students 3 hours to complete roughly 150 questions, so pacing is critical. A smart approach is to spend 1-2 minutes per question initially, skip difficult items, and return to them if time allows—this prevents getting stuck and ensures you attempt all questions. Reading section pacing differs slightly; many tutors recommend reading the passage once carefully, then tackling questions rather than re-reading. Personalized 1-on-1 instruction helps you practice and refine your specific pacing rhythm through timed practice tests.

Most experts recommend completing 8-12 full-length practice tests over your study period, spaced 1-2 weeks apart to allow time for learning between attempts. Early practice tests identify weak areas; middle tests build skills; final tests simulate test-day conditions. Between full tests, targeted practice on specific question types (like logic puzzles or inference questions) keeps skills sharp. A tutor can create a customized practice schedule, review your performance on each test, and adjust focus areas based on patterns in your mistakes.

Most students benefit from 3-6 months of consistent preparation, depending on their starting level and target score. A realistic timeline might involve 5-8 hours per week of focused study—a mix of tutoring sessions, practice tests, and independent work. Riverside students starting early (8th grade) have more flexibility to build skills gradually, while those preparing closer to the test date may need more intensive sessions. Personalized tutoring helps you create a realistic schedule that fits your pace and commitments.

In an initial session, a tutor typically assesses your current skills through a diagnostic practice test or targeted questions, discusses your target score and timeline, and identifies your strongest and weakest areas. You'll learn about the test format, question types, and scoring, then likely work through a few sample problems to establish a baseline and teaching style. This foundation allows your tutor to build a personalized study plan focused on your specific needs rather than generic test prep.