Score improvement depends on your starting point and how consistently you apply strategies. Students who work with tutors typically see 3–7 point improvements on the overall LSAT, with Reading Comprehension gains coming from better passage mapping, faster question recognition, and reduced careless errors. The key is identifying whether you're struggling with comprehension itself, question-type recognition, or pacing—and then drilling targeted practice. Most students benefit from 8–12 weeks of consistent tutoring combined with daily practice.

Effective strategies include active passage mapping (annotating structure and main ideas as you read), identifying question types before diving into answers, and using process of elimination strategically. Many high-scorers read for the author's main point and tone first, then reference the passage only when answering specific questions—this saves time and reduces re-reading. Tutors can teach you which strategies work best for your reading style and help you practice them under timed conditions so they become automatic on test day.

Pacing issues usually stem from either spending too long on the initial passage read or getting stuck on difficult questions. A strong approach is spending 8–9 minutes per passage (including reading and answering), which leaves a buffer for review. Tutors help you calibrate your reading speed, teach you to skip and return to tough questions, and build confidence so you don't second-guess yourself. With practice tests and timed drills, you'll develop a rhythm that works for your brain.

Your first session typically includes a diagnostic assessment—you'll work through a timed Reading Comprehension section while your tutor observes your process, notes where you slow down, and identifies whether your struggles are comprehension-based, strategy-based, or timing-based. You'll also discuss your target law school, timeline, and current practice habits. From there, your tutor creates a personalized study plan focused on your specific weaknesses, whether that's comparative reading, inference questions, or passage types you find challenging.

Full practice tests are essential because they reveal patterns in your mistakes and help you build stamina for the actual exam. However, targeted section practice is equally important—drilling specific question types, passage genres, or timing strategies before attempting full tests. Most students benefit from taking 6–10 full practice tests during their prep, starting with untimed versions to build comprehension skills, then moving to timed practice. Your tutor can help you interpret your results and adjust your study plan based on what the data shows.

Look for tutors who have scored well on the LSAT themselves (typically 170+), have experience teaching the specific section you need help with, and can explain their reasoning clearly. They should be familiar with the LSAC's test format and question types, and they should be able to diagnose your individual weaknesses rather than using a one-size-fits-all approach. Varsity Tutors connects you with expert tutors who specialize in LSAT prep and can provide personalized instruction tailored to your learning style and goals.

Test anxiety often stems from feeling unprepared or uncertain about your approach. Building confidence through consistent, timed practice under realistic conditions is the most effective antidote—when you've drilled passages and questions dozens of times, the section feels more manageable on test day. Your tutor can also teach you breathing and mindfulness techniques, help you develop a pre-test routine, and remind you that Reading Comprehension rewards steady, methodical work rather than speed. Many students find that knowing they have a solid strategy reduces anxiety significantly.