TEST PREPARATION
Understand the test and build a strategy that works for you.
Whether you’re preparing for the SAT, ACT, or GRE, effective test preparation begins with understanding how the exam works. Standardized tests reward pattern recognition, judgment, timing, and self-awareness. Rather than collecting tricks for test day, we build a flexible strategy that strengthens your confidence, reasoning, and problem-solving.
Why students come to me
Reach their target score
“I keep taking practice tests and my score just won’t go up.”
· Diagnostic assessment
· Personalized study plan
· One-on-one tutoring
· Progress tracking
Build necessary academic skills
“I’m overwhelmed. What do I actually need to know to do well?”
· SAT Reading & Writing
· ACT English, Math & Science
· GRE Verbal & Quantitative
· Transferable academic skills
Become a more confident test taker
“I don’t know what the question is actually asking. Then I get stressed and just pick.”
· Time management
· Testing anxiety
· Question analysis
· Pattern recognition
· Pacing
Write a strong analytical essay
“How much does the essay matter? And how can I use it to show off my writing skills?”
· Organizing complex ideas
· Developing persuasive arguments
· Writing with clarity
· Using evidence effectively
How I approach test preparation
Every student brings different questions, strengths, and goals. My approach is designed to meet students where they are and help them build the habits of mind that lead to lasting success.
Learning happens in conversation. Every student comes with different questions. Before we create a test prep strategy, we begin by understanding the challenge before us. Advice is only meaningful when it is grounded in the student’s goals.
Analytical thinking is a learnable skill. Strong test performance comes from learning how to recognize patterns, evaluate evidence, break complex problems into manageable steps, and make thoughtful decisions under time pressure.
Confidence grows through understanding. Confidence isn't built by memorizing hundreds of questions. It develops naturally as you understand the underlying concepts, strengthen your reasoning, and see your own progress over time.
How we can
work together
Every student arrives with different goals, timelines, and questions. While every test preparation plan is individualized, every tutorial follows the same rhythm.
Before we meet
Share recent work and questions; I identify priorities before our session.
The tutorial
We tackle problems and examine why one approach works better than another.
Key ideas
We identify patterns, strategies, common traps, and concepts to revisit.
Apply & explore
You apply the ideas to new questions and refine your approach through practice.
To be continued …
Each tutorial connects to a larger preparation plan and clear next steps.
One-to-one tutorials
Investment:
150€ / 170$ per hour
Suitable for individual consultations or ongoing support. Test preparation packages are available upon request.
A note on affordability
I don't want cost alone to prevent a student from reaching out. I reserve a limited amount of time for students and families who would otherwise be unable to work with me. If you think we would work well together but my standard rates are beyond your family's means, please get in touch.
How I recommend we work together
Although students are welcome to book individual tutorials, meaningful improvement usually develops through consistent work over time. If timelines allow, I recommend beginning with an initial assessment and meeting once a week, with independent practice between sessions. We will regularly review progress, identify priorities, and adjust the preparation plan as needed.
Pull up a chair.
Whether you are looking for admissions guidance, test preparation, or support with a research project, the first step is a conversation about your goals and what would be most useful to you.
Prefer email? nora@norakeller.com
