The exam focuses on three main areas: literal comprehension (understanding main ideas and supporting details), inferential comprehension (drawing conclusions and identifying implied meanings), and evaluation skills (assessing arguments and author purpose). You'll encounter passages from literature, social studies, natural sciences, and business texts, requiring you to answer multiple-choice questions about content, vocabulary in context, and rhetorical strategies.

Many test-takers struggle with time management—the exam requires reading multiple passages and answering questions quickly without sacrificing accuracy. Others find it difficult to distinguish between literal and inferential questions, or to identify an author's tone and purpose. Additionally, unfamiliar vocabulary and complex sentence structures in academic passages can slow down comprehension, making targeted practice and strategy refinement essential.

Varsity Tutors connects you with expert tutors who provide personalized 1-on-1 instruction tailored to your specific weaknesses—whether that's reading speed, inference skills, or vocabulary retention. Your tutor will use targeted practice materials, teach test-specific strategies, provide feedback on your approach to different question types, and help you build confidence through repeated, guided practice with real exam-style passages.

Your first session will focus on assessment and goal-setting. Your tutor will likely administer a diagnostic practice test or review your previous attempts to identify your strongest and weakest areas. You'll discuss your timeline, target score, and any specific concerns, then begin developing a personalized study plan that addresses your priorities and learning style.

Preparation timelines vary based on your current reading level and starting score, but most students benefit from 4–12 weeks of consistent tutoring sessions combined with independent practice. If you're working with a tutor 1–2 times per week, you can expect meaningful score improvements within this window, though some students may need extended support depending on their baseline skills and target score.

Varsity Tutors makes it easy to connect with qualified tutors experienced in PRAXIS Core Reading preparation. Simply provide information about your needs and availability, and we'll match you with a tutor who has expertise in reading comprehension, test strategy, and the specific demands of the PRAXIS exam. Your tutor will work around your schedule to provide flexible, personalized instruction.

Tutoring rates vary based on tutor qualifications, experience, and your location in Rochester. We offer flexible pricing options to fit different budgets, and you can discuss rates directly when connecting with a tutor. Many students find that investing in targeted tutoring significantly improves their scores and reduces the likelihood of needing to retake the exam, making it a worthwhile investment in their teaching career.