An all-in-one approach gives you flexibility to choose the test that plays to your strengths and maximizes your score, rather than committing to one format. You'll also develop transferable skills—strong reading comprehension, math problem-solving, and time management strategies work across both tests. This is especially valuable if you're unsure which test fits you best or want to submit whichever score is stronger to colleges.

Your first session typically includes a diagnostic assessment to identify your current strengths and weaknesses across reading, writing, and math sections. Tutors will discuss your target score, timeline, and any specific challenges you're facing—like pacing issues or anxiety around certain question types. From there, they'll create a personalized study plan that focuses on the areas where you'll see the most improvement.

Score improvement varies based on your starting point and effort level, but students typically see gains of 2-4 points on the ACT or 100-200 points on the SAT with consistent, focused preparation. The biggest improvements usually come from identifying weak question types, practicing retrieval strategies, and building test-specific skills rather than just general knowledge. Your tutor will set realistic milestones based on your baseline and help you track progress through practice tests.

Pacing is one of the most common challenges students face, and it's highly trainable. Tutors teach strategic approaches like identifying which question types to tackle first, when to skip and return to harder questions, and how to allocate time based on point value. Practice tests are essential—they help you calibrate your pace in a realistic setting and build the stamina needed for test day.

Familiarity breeds confidence, and that's where tutoring shines. By working through hundreds of practice questions and taking full-length practice tests, you'll become comfortable with question formats, timing, and the overall test experience. Tutors also teach stress-management techniques and help you develop a growth mindset—understanding that test-taking is a skill you can improve, not a fixed measure of intelligence.

Varsity Tutors connects Charlotte students with experienced tutors who specialize in ACT and SAT preparation and understand the specific needs of test-takers in North Carolina. You'll be matched based on your learning style, target score, and schedule, ensuring you work with someone who can deliver personalized instruction tailored to your goals.

Most students benefit from taking 4-6 full-length practice tests spaced throughout their prep timeline, with the last one 1-2 weeks before test day. Practice tests serve two purposes: they build stamina and familiarity with the test format, and they provide diagnostic data showing which question types and sections need more focus. Your tutor will help you review your practice test results to identify patterns in mistakes and adjust your study plan accordingly.