The biggest hurdles are typically pacing (finishing the reading section in time), understanding complex question formats, and building the vocabulary needed for harder passages. Many students also struggle with inference questions that require careful reading rather than surface-level understanding. A tutor can help you develop strategies for each question type and build the reading speed and accuracy needed to score confidently.

Your first session focuses on understanding where you stand and what to prioritize. Expect to review a recent practice test or take a diagnostic, discuss your target score, and identify which question types or skills need the most work. From there, your tutor creates a personalized study plan that targets your specific gaps rather than wasting time on concepts you already know.

Practice tests are essential—they're the best way to build stamina, get comfortable with the test format, and identify patterns in your mistakes. Taking full practice tests under timed conditions helps you develop pacing strategies and reveals whether you're struggling with specific question types or content areas. A tutor can help you analyze your results to focus your study time where it matters most.

Pacing is a learnable skill—it's not about reading faster, but about reading smarter and managing your time strategically. A tutor can teach you which questions to prioritize, how to skim passages efficiently, and when to skip and return to harder questions. With practice and the right techniques, most students can complete the section without rushing through the final questions.

Traditional vocabulary lists help, but the SAT tests vocabulary in context—meaning you can often figure out word meanings from surrounding clues. A tutor can teach you how to use context clues effectively and help you build familiarity with the types of words that appear on the test. This approach is more efficient and useful than memorizing isolated word lists.

Effective strategies vary by question type, but most students benefit from reading the passage first (not the questions), then tackling questions in a strategic order. Some students answer easier questions first to build confidence and points, while others focus on high-value questions. A tutor can help you test different approaches during practice to find what works best for your reading style and strengths.

Test anxiety often stems from uncertainty about what to expect or doubt about your preparation. Working with a tutor builds confidence through targeted practice, mastery of question types, and proven strategies that reduce surprises on test day. Knowing exactly what to expect and having a plan for each section significantly reduces anxiety and helps you perform closer to your actual ability.