Score improvements depend on your starting point and effort, but students typically see 2-4 point gains on the ACT or 100-200 point gains on the SAT with focused preparation. The key is identifying your specific weak areas—whether that's reading comprehension pacing, algebra concepts, or test anxiety—and targeting those systematically. Personalized tutoring helps pinpoint exactly where you're losing points so your study time counts.

An all-in-one class teaches you both tests' formats, question types, and strategies without requiring you to commit to one exam upfront. You'll learn math and reading/English skills that transfer between both tests, practice with authentic questions from each, and develop test-taking strategies like pacing and process of elimination. This approach lets you discover which test suits you best while building a strong foundation in core skills both require.

Pacing is one of the biggest challenges students face—the ACT gives you 2.5 minutes per question while the SAT allows more time, and tutors teach you to manage both. Strategies include tackling easier questions first, knowing when to skip and return to harder problems, and practicing timed sections repeatedly to build speed without sacrificing accuracy. Working with a tutor helps you identify whether you're rushing through careless mistakes or genuinely struggling with content, then addresses the real issue.

Practice tests are essential—they reveal your weak areas, build test-day stamina, and reduce anxiety by familiarizing you with the real format. Most students benefit from taking a full practice test every 1-2 weeks during active prep, then reviewing mistakes carefully to understand patterns. Tutors use your practice test results to guide what you study next, making your prep targeted and efficient rather than scattered.

Test anxiety often stems from feeling unprepared or uncertain about strategies—both things tutoring directly addresses. As you practice with real test formats, learn proven strategies, and see your scores improve, confidence naturally builds. Tutors also teach mental techniques like deep breathing, positive self-talk, and breaking the test into manageable chunks, so test day feels like just another practice session you've done dozens of times.

Varsity Tutors connects you with tutors for students in New Orleans who specialize in standardized test prep and understand both the ACT and SAT inside and out. You'll be matched with someone whose teaching style fits your learning needs, whether you prefer detailed explanations, strategy-focused coaching, or aggressive practice schedules. Your tutor will create a personalized study plan based on your current scores, target score, and test date.

Your first session focuses on assessment and planning—your tutor will likely have you take a diagnostic practice test or review your recent scores to identify your strongest and weakest areas. You'll discuss your target score, test date, and learning style, then create a roadmap for your prep. This foundation ensures every future session builds toward your specific goals rather than generic test prep.