Score improvement depends on your starting point and how actively you engage with tutoring. Most students see meaningful gains by focusing on identifying rhetorical devices, understanding argument structure, and developing stronger thesis statements—areas where personalized feedback makes the biggest difference. Consistent practice with released exams, combined with targeted instruction on your specific weaknesses, typically leads to 1-3 score improvements over a few months of regular tutoring.

Many students struggle with the multiple-choice section because it requires close reading and understanding subtle distinctions in how authors use language—something that's hard to improve without guided practice. The free-response essays also challenge students who are used to traditional five-paragraph formats; AP Lang demands concise, sophisticated analysis rather than lengthy introductions. Time management across all three sections is another common pain point, especially when students overthink their analysis instead of identifying the most important rhetorical moves.

Your first session focuses on understanding where you are right now. You'll likely work through a practice passage or essay prompt to identify your strengths and specific areas for improvement—whether that's recognizing rhetorical strategies, structuring arguments, or managing time during the exam. From there, a tutor can create a personalized plan that targets your weaknesses while building on what you already do well, ensuring your study time is spent most effectively.

Taking a full practice test every 2-3 weeks gives you reliable data about your progress and helps you get comfortable with the exam format and timing. Between full tests, focus on targeted practice with individual sections or specific question types where you're struggling. Most students benefit from reviewing their practice test errors with a tutor, since understanding why you missed a question—and how to avoid that mistake next time—matters far more than simply taking more tests.

Rhetorical analysis improves through repeated exposure to texts and guided practice identifying how authors use language to achieve their purpose. Working with a tutor, you can learn to move beyond surface-level observations (like "the author uses a metaphor") to deeper analysis (like "the metaphor creates urgency and appeals to the reader's emotions to support the argument"). Regular practice annotating passages, discussing your observations, and getting feedback on your analysis essays helps you develop the sophisticated reading skills AP Lang demands.

Test anxiety often stems from uncertainty about what to expect or lack of confidence in your skills. Taking full practice tests under timed conditions helps normalize the exam experience and builds confidence through repetition. A tutor can also help you develop a pacing strategy that works for your reading speed, teach you to recognize when you're overthinking a question, and provide reassurance by showing you how much you've improved through your practice work.

Varsity Tutors connects you with expert tutors who have deep knowledge of AP English Language curriculum and exam strategy. When you get matched with a tutor, you can discuss their experience with the exam, their approach to teaching rhetorical analysis, and how they've helped other students improve their scores. The right tutor for you will be someone who understands both the content and your specific learning style, so you can work together effectively toward your score goals.