The biggest hurdles are typically pacing under pressure, distinguishing between Data Sufficiency and Problem Solving question types, and managing time on geometry and word problems. Many students also struggle with the adaptive nature of the test—harder questions appear after correct answers, which can shake confidence. A tutor can help you develop strategic approaches to each question type and build the mental stamina needed for the full 62-minute section.

Your first session typically focuses on assessment and strategy planning. A tutor will review your target score, discuss your background with math, and likely walk through a few practice problems to understand where you're strongest and where you need the most work. From there, you'll develop a personalized study plan that might include diagnostic tests, focused concept review, or intensive practice on your weak areas.

Data Sufficiency is unique to the GMAT and trips up many test-takers because it requires a different mindset than traditional math problems—you're determining whether you have enough information, not necessarily solving. Tutors can teach you the systematic approach to these questions, help you recognize common traps, and give you practice with the specific logic patterns that appear repeatedly. Many students improve significantly once they understand the framework.

Timing is critical—you have roughly 2 minutes per question on average, and poor pacing often costs students more points than knowledge gaps. A tutor can help you identify which question types you should tackle first, when to guess strategically, and how to avoid spending too much time on difficult problems. Personalized instruction means practicing your specific timing challenges rather than generic speed drills.

Most test-prep experts recommend taking 4-6 full-length practice tests spaced throughout your preparation, with at least one every 1-2 weeks as you get closer to test day. However, quality matters more than quantity—it's better to take fewer tests and review them thoroughly with a tutor than to rush through many tests without analysis. Your tutor can help you identify patterns in your mistakes and adjust your study plan based on what the tests reveal.

Test anxiety often stems from feeling unprepared or encountering unfamiliar question types. Working with a tutor gives you repeated exposure to all GMAT Quantitative formats in a low-pressure environment, which builds genuine confidence through familiarity and competence. Tutors can also teach you breathing techniques, help you develop a pre-test routine, and remind you that the adaptive test is designed to challenge you—difficulty is a sign you're doing well.

Look for tutors with strong math backgrounds, proven GMAT experience, and ideally a track record of helping students improve their scores. They should understand the nuances of GMAT Quantitative specifically—not just general math tutoring—and be able to explain concepts clearly under time pressure. Varsity Tutors connects you with expert tutors who have been vetted for their subject knowledge and teaching ability, so you can focus on studying rather than vetting credentials.