Score improvement depends on your starting point and how consistently you engage with targeted practice. Students who work with tutors typically see gains by focusing on their specific weak areas—whether that's identifying rhetorical devices, managing essay timing, or strengthening argument construction. Many students improve by one to two score points (out of 5) within a few months of focused preparation, especially when combining tutoring with regular practice essays and timed drills. The key is identifying exactly where you're losing points and building skills systematically rather than cramming.

The most common struggles are managing the three essays within strict time limits, distinguishing between different rhetorical devices, and developing strong thesis statements that clearly argue a position. Many students also struggle with the multiple-choice section, particularly when texts use complex syntax or unfamiliar vocabulary. Additionally, students often rush through essays without planning, leading to weak organization and underdeveloped arguments. A tutor can help you slow down, build a pre-writing process, and practice timed writing until the format feels natural.

Start by spending 2-3 minutes reading the prompt and source material carefully before writing. For the rhetorical analysis essay, identify the author's purpose and main rhetorical strategies, then organize your essay around how those strategies work together. For the synthesis essay, read all sources first, then write a clear thesis that takes a position before weaving in evidence. For the argument essay, state your claim immediately and support it with specific, relevant examples. Across all three, prioritize clarity and evidence over fancy language—graders reward strong reasoning and specific support.

Ideally, students benefit from starting preparation 2-3 months before the exam with consistent weekly practice. A solid routine includes reading and annotating nonfiction texts (2-3 per week), writing one full timed essay every 1-2 weeks, and reviewing multiple-choice sections regularly. Taking at least 2-3 full-length practice exams under timed conditions helps you identify pacing issues and weak areas before test day. Working with a tutor accelerates this process by providing immediate feedback on your essays and helping you prioritize the skills that will have the biggest impact on your score.

A tutor can diagnose exactly where you're losing points—whether in reading comprehension, essay structure, or time management—and create a focused plan to address those gaps. They'll review your practice essays with a critical eye, showing you how to strengthen your thesis statements, develop your arguments more effectively, and catch common mistakes in reasoning. Tutors also help you build a pre-writing routine that works under pressure, teach you to recognize rhetorical devices quickly, and provide timed practice with immediate feedback. This personalized approach is far more efficient than generic test prep, especially for students preparing in Salt Lake City schools with varying levels of AP support.

Your first session will focus on understanding where you stand. The tutor will likely have you write a timed essay or complete a practice multiple-choice section to assess your current skills, then discuss your goals and any specific challenges you're facing. You'll leave with a clear picture of your strengths and the areas that need the most work, plus an initial plan for how tutoring will help you improve. This diagnostic approach ensures that every future session builds directly on your needs rather than covering material you've already mastered.

Varsity Tutors connects you with expert tutors who specialize in AP Language and Composition and understand the specific curriculum and pacing of Salt Lake City schools. You can share your goals and schedule preferences, and we'll match you with a tutor whose expertise and teaching style fit your needs. Whether you need help with essay writing, rhetorical analysis, test-taking strategy, or all three, you'll get personalized 1-on-1 instruction tailored to your timeline and learning style. Most students meet with their tutor weekly or twice weekly in the months leading up to the exam.