When you get your child's baseline SAT score, it usually falls into one of two categories: either both scores are roughly equal, or one is significantly lower than the other. If you have a limited budget and need to prioritize, deciding between a Math tutor and a Reading tutor can be stressful.
While every student is different, here is a general framework for deciding which section to prioritize and why.
The Case for Starting with Math
In almost all cases, it is easier and faster to improve an SAT Math score than an SAT Reading score. This is purely a function of how the test is designed.
The SAT Math section tests a finite number of concepts—linear equations, quadratics, basic geometry, and data analysis. If your child misses a question on systems of equations, a tutor can teach them how to solve it using the built-in Desmos calculator. Within an hour, they will know how to solve that specific type of problem every time they see it.
Furthermore, many low math scores are the result of forgetting concepts learned in 8th or 9th grade, rather than a lack of ability. A quick refresher can yield a 50 to 100-point jump relatively fast on the 200-800 scale.
If the math score is significantly lower than the reading score, or if they are equal, prioritize math. The return on investment in math tutoring is consistently higher and faster.
The Challenge with Reading and Writing
Improving the Reading and Writing score is often a slower process. While the Writing (grammar) section can be taught quickly—similar to math—the Reading comprehension portion is much harder to "hack."
Reading comprehension relies on years of vocabulary acquisition, reading habits, and analytical skills. You cannot teach a student to read faster and understand complex 19th-century literature in a few tutoring sessions. You can teach them strategies to eliminate wrong answers, but closing a large gap in reading takes significant time and consistent independent practice.
When to Prioritize a Reading Tutor
There are scenarios where prioritizing a Reading tutor makes sense. If your child is already scoring a 700+ in Math but is stuck in the 500s on Reading, they clearly understand math but are struggling with the language of the test. In this case, a specialized Reading tutor can help them dissect the trap answers and improve their pacing.
Additionally, some students simply freeze up when faced with the dense reading passages. A tutor can help them build confidence and develop a systematic approach to reading the texts.
The Lahage Tutoring Approach
At Lahage Tutoring, we specialize exclusively in the SAT Math section. We know that for the majority of students, the fastest path to a higher composite score is through math. Our prep packages, starting at $679, are designed to exploit the predictable nature of the Digital SAT math questions and maximize the power of the Desmos calculator.
If you are unsure where to start, the best first step is a full-length diagnostic test. From there, you can look at the data. If the math score is lagging, or if there is low-hanging fruit in the algebra section, a specialized math tutor is almost always your best bet for a rapid score increase.