Score improvement varies based on your starting point and commitment level, but most students see meaningful gains within 4-8 weeks of focused preparation. Students who work with tutors typically improve 30-80 points in the Quantitative section by identifying their specific weak areas—whether that's data sufficiency strategy, geometry fundamentals, or pacing—and building targeted skills. The key is consistent practice combined with personalized feedback on your mistakes.

The biggest hurdles are pacing (running out of time before finishing), distinguishing between Data Sufficiency and Problem Solving strategies, and managing test anxiety when facing unfamiliar problem types. Many students also struggle with translating word problems into equations and knowing when to estimate versus calculate precisely. A tutor can help you develop efficient problem-solving approaches and build confidence through targeted practice on your specific weak spots.

Your first session focuses on assessment and strategy. A tutor will review your current skill level, discuss your target score and timeline, and identify which topics (algebra, geometry, data sufficiency, etc.) need the most work. You'll also learn about the section's unique demands and get an initial sense of the tutoring approach—whether that's working through practice problems, reviewing fundamentals, or refining test-taking strategies.

Practice tests are essential for GMAT success because they reveal your pacing patterns, identify recurring mistakes, and help you build stamina for the actual test. Most students benefit from taking full-length practice tests every 1-2 weeks during their prep period, then reviewing mistakes with a tutor to understand why you missed questions and how to avoid similar errors. This cycle of testing, analysis, and targeted skill-building is one of the most effective ways to raise your score.

Most students spend 3-6 months preparing for the full GMAT, with 8-12 hours per week of study time. If you're focusing specifically on strengthening your Quantitative section, you might dedicate 4-8 weeks of concentrated practice, especially if you have identified weak areas. Working with a tutor helps you use that time more efficiently by targeting your specific gaps rather than reviewing material you've already mastered.

Data Sufficiency requires a different mindset than traditional problem-solving—you're not always solving for a specific answer, but determining whether you have enough information to solve it. The key strategy is to evaluate each statement independently first, then together, and avoid the trap of assuming you need to actually calculate the answer. Many students improve significantly once they master the logical framework of Data Sufficiency and practice recognizing patterns in how the test designs these questions.

Look for tutors with strong GMAT scores themselves (typically 700+), proven experience helping students improve their Quantitative sections, and familiarity with both the content and test-specific strategies. The best tutors understand not just the math, but how to diagnose why you're missing questions and adapt their teaching to your learning style. Varsity Tutors connects you with expert tutors in Oklahoma City who have demonstrated success helping students master the Quantitative section.