Many students struggle with time management—the test requires reading complex passages quickly and answering questions accurately within a set timeframe. Grammar and punctuation rules often trip up test-takers, especially those who haven't studied English formally in years. The extended response essay is particularly challenging because it demands both strong writing mechanics and the ability to construct a persuasive argument using textual evidence.

Personalized 1-on-1 instruction lets tutors identify your specific weak areas—whether that's comma usage, reading speed, or essay organization—and focus on those gaps rather than reviewing material you already know. Tutors can teach you test-taking strategies tailored to how you learn best, provide targeted practice on realistic GED passages, and give immediate feedback on your writing to help you improve faster than studying alone.

Most students benefit from 4-12 weeks of preparation, depending on their starting point and how frequently they study. If you're rusty on grammar or reading comprehension, you may need longer; if you're already a strong reader and writer, you might prepare more quickly. Working with a tutor helps you use your preparation time efficiently by focusing on what matters most for your score.

Your first session typically includes an assessment to understand your current reading level, grammar knowledge, and writing ability—often through a practice GED RLA passage or short writing sample. The tutor will ask about your goals, timeline, and any specific concerns you have about the test. This helps create a personalized study plan focused on the skills that will have the biggest impact on your score.

Yes—the extended response is a major component of GED RLA, and tutors can help you master it. They'll teach you how to quickly analyze the prompt, identify the author's argument, and structure your own response with a clear thesis and supporting evidence. You'll practice writing essays under timed conditions and receive detailed feedback on your argument, organization, grammar, and use of textual evidence.

Vocabulary matters, but the GED RLA doesn't require memorizing obscure words—you'll encounter vocabulary in context within passages, and understanding word meaning from surrounding clues is often more important than prior knowledge. That said, building a working vocabulary of academic and literary terms helps you read faster and understand complex texts more easily. Tutors can help you develop vocabulary strategies and expose you to the types of words commonly seen on the test.

Charlotte has numerous adult education and GED preparation resources through Mecklenburg County Schools and community colleges, but personalized tutoring offers a significant advantage over group classes. With a 16.8:1 student-teacher ratio in traditional classrooms, individual attention is limited. Varsity Tutors connects you with expert tutors who can adapt to your pace, learning style, and schedule—whether you're preparing full-time or while working.