Score improvement depends on your starting point and how consistently you practice, but most students see meaningful gains—typically 50-100+ points—with focused preparation over 8-12 weeks. Personalized 1-on-1 instruction helps identify your specific weak areas (vocabulary, inference questions, paired passages, etc.) so you can target practice where it matters most rather than studying everything broadly.

Many students struggle with pacing—finishing all passages and questions within the time limit—or with understanding what questions are really asking. Others find paired passages confusing, have gaps in vocabulary, or struggle to identify an author's tone and purpose. A tutor can help you develop a strategic approach to each question type and build the reading stamina needed to stay focused through the entire section.

Your first session typically includes a diagnostic assessment—usually a timed practice section or full test—to identify your strengths and pinpoint exactly where you're losing points. You'll discuss your goals, timeline, and any specific anxieties about the test. From there, Varsity Tutors connects you with a tutor who can create a customized study plan focused on the areas where you'll gain the most improvement.

Effective strategies include previewing questions before reading passages (so you know what to look for), annotating as you read, and using process of elimination strategically. Time management is crucial—many students benefit from tackling easier passages first, then returning to harder ones. A tutor can teach you which strategies work best for your reading style and help you practice them until they become automatic.

Practice tests are essential—they help you build stamina, get comfortable with the question formats, and identify patterns in what you're missing. Taking full, timed practice tests regularly shows you how you perform under pressure and helps your tutor track your progress. Most students benefit from taking at least 4-6 full practice tests spread throughout their preparation period, with detailed review after each one.

Test anxiety often stems from uncertainty—not knowing what to expect or feeling unprepared. Personalized tutoring builds confidence by helping you master the content and strategies, so you walk into test day feeling ready. Regular practice under timed conditions also desensitizes you to the pressure, and a tutor can teach you specific techniques to manage stress during the actual test.

Varsity Tutors connects you with expert tutors who specialize in PSAT Critical Reading and understand the unique needs of students in Salt Lake City. You can share your goals, schedule preferences, and any specific challenges, and we'll match you with a tutor whose expertise and teaching style fit your needs. The process is straightforward—get matched, schedule your first session, and start improving.