The Evidence-Based Reading and Writing section is scored as one combined score (200-800), but it tests two distinct skills. The Reading portion asks you to understand passages, find evidence, and make inferences—it rewards careful comprehension and strategic annotation. The Writing and Language portion tests grammar, syntax, and rhetorical skills through editing tasks. Most students find one portion easier than the other, so a tutor can help you identify which area needs more focus and develop targeted strategies for each.

Pacing is one of the biggest challenges students face—you have about 65 minutes to complete 52 questions across multiple passages. The strategy isn't to rush; it's to allocate time wisely by reading strategically, skipping difficult questions temporarily, and returning to them if time allows. A tutor can teach you how to preview passages, identify question types quickly, and practice under timed conditions so pacing becomes automatic rather than stressful.

The SAT doesn't test obscure vocabulary the way it used to—instead, it focuses on words in context and understanding how word choice affects meaning. Rather than memorizing lists, you'll benefit more from learning common word roots, understanding how context clues work, and practicing with actual SAT passages. A tutor can help you build vocabulary through the passages you'll encounter and teach you strategies to decode unfamiliar words during the test.

Practice tests are essential—they help you understand the test format, identify your weak areas, and build stamina for test day. Taking full-length practice tests under timed conditions reveals whether your struggles are with comprehension, pacing, or specific question types. After each practice test, the real work happens: analyzing your mistakes with a tutor to understand why you missed questions and adjusting your strategy accordingly. Most students benefit from taking 4-6 practice tests throughout their preparation.

Test anxiety often stems from uncertainty about what to expect or lack of confidence in your preparation. Working with a tutor builds confidence through repeated exposure to question types and proven strategies, which significantly reduces anxiety on test day. Additionally, tutors can teach you calming techniques, help you develop a pre-test routine, and practice positive self-talk. Many students find that understanding the test structure and knowing they have a solid game plan makes the actual exam feel much more manageable.

Your first session focuses on understanding your baseline and goals. You'll likely take a diagnostic test or review a recent SAT score to identify your specific weaknesses—whether that's reading comprehension, grammar, or pacing. The tutor will ask about your target score, timeline, and learning style, then create a personalized study plan that addresses your priorities. This foundation ensures that every future session builds directly toward your goals rather than covering generic test prep material.

Varsity Tutors connects you with expert tutors who specialize in SAT Verbal preparation and understand the specific challenges students face. When you get matched with a tutor, you can discuss your availability, learning preferences, and goals—whether you want to focus on reading strategies, grammar rules, or timed practice. Tutors work with you to create a customized plan that fits your schedule and learning style, so you get instruction tailored to your needs rather than a one-size-fits-all approach.