Score improvement depends on your starting point, effort level, and how much time you dedicate to practice. Most students see meaningful gains—typically 50-150 points—when working with a tutor who helps them identify weak areas, master question formats, and develop effective pacing strategies. Consistent practice combined with targeted instruction is key to seeing real progress.

The SHSAT has two main sections: Math and Verbal Reasoning (which includes reading comprehension and grammar). Students often find the Verbal section more challenging because it requires strong reading speed and comprehension skills under time pressure, while the Math section tests both computational ability and logical reasoning. A tutor can help you identify which section needs the most focus and develop strategies to improve both.

Pacing is one of the biggest challenges students face on the SHSAT. Effective strategies include learning to identify easier vs. harder questions quickly, skipping difficult problems strategically, and practicing with timed sections to build speed without sacrificing accuracy. A tutor can work with you on personalized pacing techniques based on your strengths and help you practice under realistic test conditions.

Taking 8-12 full-length practice tests over your preparation period is ideal—this gives you enough exposure to different question types and helps you build test-taking stamina. Spacing them out over several weeks, with focused review of mistakes after each test, is more effective than cramming. Your tutor can help you analyze practice test results to pinpoint specific weak areas and adjust your study plan accordingly.

Test anxiety often stems from unfamiliar question formats or feeling unprepared. The best antidote is familiarity—practicing with authentic SHSAT questions and taking timed practice tests builds confidence and reduces anxiety on test day. Working with a tutor also helps you feel more in control, as you'll understand the test's patterns and have strategies ready for different question types.

Look for tutors with deep knowledge of the SHSAT format, proven experience helping students improve their scores, and the ability to diagnose your specific weak areas. They should be able to teach both content and test-taking strategy, adapt to your learning style, and provide detailed feedback on practice tests. Varsity Tutors connects you with expert tutors who specialize in SHSAT prep and understand how to help students like you succeed.

Your first session typically includes a diagnostic assessment—either a practice test or targeted questions—to identify your current strengths and weaknesses across both Math and Verbal sections. From there, your tutor will work with you to create a personalized study plan with realistic goals, establish a practice schedule, and begin teaching strategies tailored to your needs. This foundation sets you up for focused, efficient preparation.