Score improvement depends on your student's starting point and how much time they dedicate to targeted practice. Students who work with tutors typically see meaningful gains by focusing on their weakest sections and learning test-specific strategies. Many students improve by 2-4 composite points or more when they combine tutoring with consistent practice, especially when addressing timing and question-format challenges early.

The math and reading sections tend to be most challenging for many students because they require both content knowledge and strategic test-taking skills. Math struggles often involve pacing and multi-step problems, while reading challenges typically stem from managing time across longer passages. A tutor can identify your student's specific weak areas and create a targeted study plan to address them before test day.

Ideally, students should begin PreACT preparation 2-3 months before their test date to allow time for skill-building and practice. However, even a few weeks of focused tutoring can help students learn test strategies and build confidence. Varsity Tutors connects students in Baltimore with tutors who can assess your student's needs and create a customized preparation plan, whether you're starting early or need intensive prep closer to test day.

Practice tests are essential—they help students get comfortable with the test format, build pacing skills, and identify specific weak areas. Taking full-length practice tests under timed conditions is one of the most effective ways to prepare, as it simulates the actual test experience. Tutors typically use practice test results to guide instruction and help students focus on the skills that will have the biggest impact on their score.

Test anxiety often stems from feeling unprepared or unfamiliar with the test format. Working with a tutor builds confidence through mastery—as students practice strategies, understand question types, and see their skills improve, anxiety naturally decreases. Tutors also teach calming techniques and help students develop a realistic, positive mindset about the PreACT as a learning tool rather than a high-stakes pressure situation.

During the first session, a tutor will typically assess your student's current skills, discuss their goals, and identify which sections need the most work. They may review a practice test or discuss previous academic performance to understand your student's learning style. From there, the tutor creates a customized plan that outlines which topics to focus on, how to approach practice, and realistic timelines for improvement.

Varsity Tutors connects students in Baltimore with expert tutors who specialize in PreACT preparation. You can tell us about your student's needs, goals, and preferred schedule, and we'll match them with a tutor who has experience helping 10th graders succeed. Our tutors understand the Baltimore school landscape and can tailor their approach to your student's specific challenges and learning style.