The Reading and Writing section (50 minutes total) combines two skill areas: reading comprehension passages with multiple-choice questions, and grammar/language conventions questions. Reading tests your ability to understand main ideas, draw inferences, and analyze arguments, while Writing focuses on grammar, punctuation, word choice, and rhetorical skills. Most students find one area easier than the other, so a tutor can help you strengthen whichever section is dragging down your score.

Pacing is one of the biggest challenges students face—you have roughly 1.5 minutes per question, which isn't much time for careful reading. Effective strategies include skimming passages strategically, answering easier questions first, and flagging difficult ones to revisit if time allows. A tutor can help you practice these techniques under timed conditions so they become automatic on test day, rather than adding stress.

Practice tests are essential—they're the closest thing to the real test and help you identify patterns in what you're missing. Taking full practice tests under timed conditions reveals whether your struggles are with specific question types, timing management, or test anxiety. Tutors typically use practice test results to create a focused study plan, so you're not just practicing randomly but targeting your actual weak spots.

The SAT Verbal doesn't require extensive vocabulary memorization like older versions did, but strong vocabulary definitely helps with reading comprehension and understanding context clues in word-choice questions. Rather than flashcard drilling, focus on learning words in context and understanding word relationships and roots. A tutor can teach you efficient strategies for tackling unfamiliar words during the test itself.

Test anxiety often stems from feeling unprepared or unfamiliar with question formats—tutoring builds confidence through repeated exposure and mastery of strategies. When you understand exactly what each question type is asking and have practiced similar problems dozens of times, the test feels less intimidating. Tutors also teach specific techniques like pacing strategies and self-talk that help you stay calm and focused when pressure builds.

Varsity Tutors connects you with tutors who specialize in SAT Verbal prep and understand the specific challenges students face on this section. When you get matched with a tutor, you can discuss your current score, target score, and timeline so they can create a personalized study plan. Most tutors offer flexible scheduling and can adapt their approach based on whether you need help with reading speed, grammar concepts, or test-taking strategy.

Most students benefit from 6-12 weeks of focused preparation, depending on their starting score and target improvement. If you're aiming for a significant score increase, starting earlier gives you time to build foundational skills and take multiple practice tests. A tutor can assess where you're starting and create a realistic timeline based on your specific goals and how much time you can dedicate each week.