The most common struggles are pacing (finishing all passages in time), understanding what questions are actually asking, and distinguishing between answers that sound right versus answers supported by the text. Many students also struggle with vocabulary in context questions and comparing information across paired passages. A tutor can teach you strategies to read more efficiently, recognize question patterns, and build confidence in your answer choices.

Your first session focuses on understanding where you stand and what to work on. You'll likely take a diagnostic test or review a recent SAT Reading section to identify your specific weak areas—whether it's timing, comprehension, or question-type strategies. From there, a tutor can create a personalized plan that matches your timeline and goals, whether you're preparing for your first SAT or aiming to improve a previous score.

Practice tests are essential because they help you build stamina, get comfortable with the test format, and identify patterns in the types of questions you miss. However, taking practice tests without analyzing your mistakes isn't enough—you need to understand why you got questions wrong and learn the strategies to avoid those mistakes next time. A tutor can guide you through practice test review to maximize what you learn from each one.

Pacing is about strategy, not just speed. Many students try to read every word carefully, but the SAT rewards strategic reading—skimming for main ideas, reading questions first, and knowing where to find specific details. Different passages and question types also benefit from different approaches. A tutor can teach you which strategies work best for different passage types and help you practice until timing feels natural.

If you're preparing for your first SAT, aim for 3-4 months of consistent study, dedicating 5-7 hours per week to reading practice. If you're retaking the test to improve a previous score, you might focus more intensively for 6-8 weeks. The key is consistent, targeted practice rather than cramming—working on specific question types you struggle with rather than reviewing material you already know. A tutor can help you build a realistic study plan based on your timeline and current level.

Test anxiety often stems from uncertainty—not knowing if your answer is right or understanding why you're missing questions. When you work with a tutor to build a strong strategy, practice consistently, and understand the patterns in how questions are asked, your confidence naturally grows. Tutors can also teach you specific techniques to manage stress during the test, like how to approach a difficult passage or what to do if you're running out of time.

Look for tutors with strong SAT scores themselves, proven experience teaching SAT Reading strategies, and familiarity with the current test format. They should be able to explain not just the right answers, but why wrong answers are traps—and teach you to recognize those patterns. Varsity Tutors connects you with expert tutors who understand the SAT Reading section inside and out and can adapt their teaching to your learning style.