Score improvement depends on your starting point and study intensity, but most students see meaningful gains (50-100+ points) with focused preparation over 4-8 weeks. Personalized 1-on-1 instruction helps identify your specific weak areas—whether that's reading speed, argument analysis, or grammar patterns—and targets those gaps directly rather than generic review. Your improvement trajectory will be clearer after a diagnostic assessment with a tutor.

The three most common struggles are pacing (finishing all questions within 65 minutes), distinguishing between similar answer choices in Reading Comprehension, and recognizing subtle grammar errors in Sentence Correction. Many students also underestimate Critical Reasoning, which requires analyzing logical structure rather than just reading comprehension. Expert tutors can teach you to recognize question patterns and develop efficient strategies for each question type.

Personalized 1-on-1 instruction allows a tutor to diagnose whether your challenges stem from content gaps, timing issues, or test anxiety—and address each accordingly. Rather than working through generic practice materials, you'll focus on your specific weak areas, learn question-type-specific strategies, and build confidence through targeted practice. Tutors can also help you develop a realistic study schedule that fits your timeline for test day.

Practice tests are essential—they reveal your pacing patterns, question type strengths and weaknesses, and help you adapt strategies under timed conditions. Most students benefit from taking full-length practice tests every 1-2 weeks, then reviewing mistakes with a tutor to understand why you chose wrong answers. This cycle of testing, analysis, and targeted skill-building is far more effective than reviewing content passively.

Test anxiety often stems from uncertainty about question formats or feeling unprepared for specific question types. Working with a tutor helps you build genuine confidence by mastering each question type, practicing under timed conditions, and developing a consistent strategy you trust. Tutors can also teach you mental techniques for staying calm when you encounter unfamiliar passages or tricky answer choices.

Varsity Tutors connects you with experienced GMAT Verbal tutors who understand the test's specific demands and can tailor instruction to your needs. When you get matched with a tutor, you'll work with someone who has proven expertise in the Verbal section and experience helping students reach their target scores. You can discuss your goals, timeline, and learning style to ensure a good fit.

Your first session typically includes a diagnostic assessment—taking a practice Verbal section or reviewing your past attempts—so the tutor can identify your specific strengths and gaps. You'll discuss your target score, test date, and current study habits, then develop a personalized plan covering which question types to prioritize and how to structure your preparation. This foundation ensures every session after that is focused and efficient.