Score improvements vary based on your starting point and effort, but students typically see meaningful gains of 50-100+ points when they work with a tutor to strengthen reading comprehension, learn test-specific strategies, and practice consistently. The key is identifying your specific weaknesses—whether that's pacing, vocabulary, or understanding complex passages—and targeting those areas with focused instruction.

Pacing is one of the biggest challenges students face on PSAT Critical Reading. A tutor can help you develop a strategic approach: spending the right amount of time on each passage, learning to skim effectively for main ideas, and prioritizing questions by difficulty. With practice tests and timed drills, you'll build the rhythm needed to complete all questions without rushing or running out of time.

The best way is to take full-length, timed practice tests and review your results carefully—look for patterns in the types of questions you miss (vocabulary, inference, main idea) and the passage topics that trip you up. Varsity Tutors connects you with expert tutors who can analyze your practice tests, pinpoint your specific weaknesses, and create a targeted study plan to address them.

While PSAT Critical Reading doesn't require memorizing obscure vocabulary lists, understanding words in context is essential—the test focuses on how words function within passages rather than isolated definitions. A tutor can teach you strategies for decoding unfamiliar words from context clues and help you build familiarity with words commonly tested on standardized tests, making you more confident and efficient when you encounter them.

Ideally, you should work on Critical Reading 3-4 times per week for 6-8 weeks before the test, combining full-length practice tests with targeted drills on specific question types. A tutor can help you create a realistic study schedule that fits your other commitments and gradually builds your skills—starting with understanding concepts and question formats, then moving to timed practice that simulates test conditions.

Test anxiety often stems from feeling unprepared or unsure about what to expect. Personalized 1-on-1 instruction builds confidence through repeated practice with real test questions, clear explanations of strategies, and feedback on your progress. When you understand the test format, know what to expect, and have proven techniques for tackling different question types, anxiety naturally decreases and you can focus on performing your best.

Varsity Tutors connects Rochester students with expert tutors who specialize in PSAT preparation and Critical Reading instruction. When you reach out, we'll match you with a tutor who understands your goals, learning style, and schedule—whether you need help building foundational reading skills, learning test-specific strategies, or fine-tuning your approach before test day.