The biggest obstacles we see are pacing (finishing all passages in time), understanding complex question formats, and distinguishing between plausible-sounding wrong answers and correct ones. Many students also struggle with vocabulary-in-context questions and paired passages, which require tracking two different perspectives. A tutor can help you develop strategies for each challenge type and build the stamina needed to focus through all four passages.

Effective strategies include previewing questions before reading (to know what to look for), annotating the passage as you read, and using process of elimination strategically. Timing management is critical—many students benefit from practicing a consistent approach to each passage type rather than trying to read everything perfectly. Tutors can teach you which strategies match your reading style and help you practice them under timed conditions so they become automatic on test day.

Practice tests are essential—they help you identify weak question types, track your pacing, and build test-day confidence. Taking full practice tests under timed conditions reveals patterns in your mistakes (like rushing through inference questions or overthinking vocabulary). A tutor can review your practice test results with you, pinpoint exactly where you're losing points, and adjust your study plan accordingly rather than spending time on areas where you're already strong.

Your first session focuses on understanding your current level and goals. You'll likely take a diagnostic reading section or discuss recent practice test results to identify your specific challenge areas—whether that's timing, certain question types, or passage comprehension. From there, a tutor can create a personalized study plan that targets your weaknesses and builds on your strengths, so every session moves you closer to your score goal.

Test anxiety often stems from uncertainty about strategies or fear of running out of time. Working with a tutor builds confidence by giving you proven techniques to rely on and plenty of practice under timed conditions—this familiarity reduces anxiety significantly. Tutors can also teach you how to manage your mental state during the test, like how to reset after a difficult passage and avoid getting stuck on one question.

Look for tutors with strong SAT backgrounds—ideally high personal scores and proven experience helping students improve. They should understand the specific demands of SAT Reading (not just general reading comprehension), know the latest test format, and be able to explain why answers are correct or incorrect. Varsity Tutors connects you with expert tutors who have deep knowledge of SAT Reading and experience coaching students in Las Vegas toward their score goals.

Most students benefit from 8-12 weeks of focused prep, dedicating 5-7 hours per week to reading practice. If you're starting from a lower baseline or aiming for a very high score, you might want 12-16 weeks. The timeline also depends on your test date and current score—a tutor can help you create a realistic study schedule that fits your timeline and builds the skills you need without burning out.