Word problems are challenging because they require you to translate written language into mathematical equations—a skill that takes practice. The key is learning to identify what information is relevant, what you're solving for, and which operation or formula applies. Tutors work with you on a systematic approach: reading carefully, highlighting key numbers, drawing diagrams when helpful, and checking your answer makes sense in context. With guided practice on real TEAS-style problems, word problems become much more manageable.

Absolutely. Math anxiety is common, especially when returning to studying after time away, but personalized 1-on-1 instruction is particularly effective for rebuilding confidence. Rather than jumping straight to test-level problems, tutors start where you are, rebuild foundational skills at a pace that feels comfortable, and celebrate progress along the way. Many students are surprised how quickly their confidence returns once they have someone explaining concepts clearly and answering their specific questions without judgment.

Effective TEAS Math strategies include estimating your answer before calculating (to catch mistakes), working backward from answer choices when appropriate, and breaking multi-step problems into smaller pieces. You should also know when to use a calculator strategically and when mental math is faster. Since the TEAS is timed, practicing with a realistic time limit is important—tutors help you develop these strategies through targeted practice and teach you how to recognize which approach works best for different question types.

Varsity Tutors connects you with expert tutors for students in San Diego who have specific experience preparing students for the TEAS exam. During the matching process, you'll share your timeline, current comfort level with math, and specific topics you need help with—so your tutor comes to your first session ready to focus on what matters most to you. Whether you need intensive preparation over several weeks or targeted help on specific concepts, you'll work with someone whose teaching style matches how you learn best.

While the TEAS is computer-based and you only submit final answers, showing your work during practice builds problem-solving skills and helps you catch errors. When you write out each step, you're less likely to make careless mistakes, and if you get an answer wrong, your tutor can see exactly where your thinking went off track. This is how tutors help you understand not just the answer, but the process—and that understanding is what transfers to test day when you're working under time pressure.

This depends on your starting point and target timeline. Some students need 4-6 weeks of weekly sessions to review key concepts and build confidence, while others benefit from more intensive preparation. The best approach is to start with an honest assessment of where you are now—which topics feel solid, which are shaky, and when you need to test. Tutors for students in San Diego create personalized timelines based on your situation, so you're not over-preparing in areas where you're already strong or falling short on skills you need to strengthen.