Score improvements depend on where you're starting and how consistently you practice, but most students see meaningful gains—typically 50-100 points—when they work with a tutor to identify weak areas and master test-specific strategies. The key is targeting your specific challenges, whether that's reading comprehension speed, math problem-solving, or understanding tricky grammar rules. Consistent practice combined with personalized feedback tends to produce the strongest results.

Reading and Writing tend to be the toughest sections for many students because they require both speed and accuracy under pressure. The math section challenges students who haven't practiced with the specific question formats the PSAT uses—especially word problems and grid-in questions. A tutor can help you develop pacing strategies and tackle these sections systematically rather than trying to improve everything at once.

Most students benefit from starting tutoring 8-12 weeks before their test date, meeting weekly or bi-weekly for focused sessions. However, even 4-6 weeks of targeted work on your weakest areas can make a meaningful difference. The timeline really depends on your starting point and how much you practice between sessions—consistent effort outside of tutoring sessions accelerates improvement significantly.

Your first session typically starts with a diagnostic assessment—either reviewing a recent practice test or taking one together—so your tutor can identify your specific strengths and weaknesses. You'll discuss your goals, timeline, and any test anxiety concerns, then create a personalized study plan focused on the areas where you'll gain the most points. This foundation ensures your tutoring is targeted and efficient from day one.

Practice tests are essential—they're the best way to build stamina, identify patterns in your mistakes, and get comfortable with the actual test format and timing. Varsity Tutors connects you with tutors who use practice tests strategically throughout your preparation, not just at the beginning and end. Your tutor will review your practice test results with you to spot trends (like whether you rush through reading or struggle with specific math topics) and adjust your study plan accordingly.

Test anxiety often stems from feeling unprepared or uncertain about question formats—things that tutoring directly addresses through repeated practice and strategy building. As you become more confident in your skills and test-taking approach, anxiety naturally decreases. Tutors also teach practical techniques like pacing strategies and how to manage time pressure, which gives you concrete tools to stay calm on test day.

Varsity Tutors connects you with expert tutors who specialize in PSAT preparation for students in Buffalo. You'll share your goals, availability, and specific challenges, and we'll match you with a tutor whose expertise and schedule fit your needs. From there, you can start your personalized tutoring right away and begin working toward your target score.