Your first session focuses on understanding your current strengths and weaknesses. A tutor will likely review a practice test or sample questions to identify which areas—like grammar conventions, sentence structure, or rhetorical questions—need the most work. This diagnostic helps create a personalized study plan tailored to your specific challenges and timeline before test day.

Pacing is one of the biggest challenges on this section since you have about 9 minutes per passage. Tutors teach strategic approaches like identifying question types quickly, knowing when to skip and return, and using process-of-elimination efficiently. With practice and feedback on timed drills, you'll develop the rhythm needed to complete all questions without rushing through careless mistakes.

Students often struggle with identifying the most concise answer choice (overthinking wordy options), misunderstanding rhetorical questions that ask about purpose rather than grammar, and losing focus during longer passages. Many also rush through transitions and word choice questions without fully reading the context. A tutor helps you recognize these patterns in your own work and teaches you to slow down strategically on high-error question types.

Consistent practice between sessions is key—aim for 30-45 minutes of focused work 3-4 times per week. This should include a mix of individual questions for targeted skill-building and full passages under timed conditions. Your tutor will assign specific practice materials and review your work in the next session to identify patterns and adjust your strategy.

Absolutely. Much test anxiety stems from uncertainty about what to expect and whether you can handle the pacing. As you work with a tutor on question patterns, strategies, and timed practice, you build genuine confidence backed by real progress. Tutors also teach mental techniques like breaking the section into manageable chunks and managing self-doubt during the test.

Look for tutors with strong SAT scores themselves (ideally 750+ on Evidence-Based Reading and Writing), proven experience teaching the Writing and Language section specifically, and familiarity with current test formats and question types. It's also valuable to find someone who can explain the reasoning behind answer choices clearly and adapt their teaching style to your learning preferences.

Varsity Tutors connects you with expert tutors for personalized instruction, and many high schools in the Bronx also offer SAT prep resources and practice tests. Combining tutoring with your school's offerings and official College Board materials gives you a well-rounded preparation approach. Your tutor can recommend which free and paid resources align best with your study plan.