If you’re having trouble studying for standardized exams like the SAT, ACT®, LSAT, MCAT, or GRE, chances are you’ve considered whether or not enrolling in a group class to prepare is right for you. And although we’ll be the first to say that doing so is a valid and intentional way to prepare for challenging tests, private tutoring is undoubtedly more effective and what we favor most when it comes to results.
The reason why? Private tutoring is focused and tailored to your needs and goals. Not only does this give you the trained attention of an expert tutor in structuring and organizing your prep, but your tutor will also come to know you well enough to recommend strategies that cater to your learning style and unique circumstances.
Group classes might offer a cheaper price tag at first glance; however, they often go on to lack that individualized attention some test takers need for success. A group class also might not address your specific learning concerns effectively. You could sit through an entire semester of a course, just to get a brief overview of the one weak point in your testing knowledge. Not to mention, group settings can sometimes lead to distractions and less focused instruction as compared to one-on-one tutoring.
Personalized Learning Environment
One of the biggest pros to private tutoring vs. group classes is that the sessions are inherently flexible. This means that tutors are free to adapt their instruction to your specific needs and learning pace. Unlike group classes that must cater to a broad range of ability levels, private tutoring is able to focus solely on your weaknesses. This tailored style is important for efficient retention of information, and makes sure you spend time only on problem areas, skipping over the material you’re already familiar with.
Cost-Effectiveness
It’s hard to deny that group classes are cheaper at first glance. However, private tutoring is generally much more cost effective in the long run. Making the investment in tailored tutoring means quicker and more significant improvements in scores. In our experience, this drastically reduces the number of sessions needed to achieve your desired score results, while saving you money and stress in the long run. Not to mention, higher test scores can lead to better admissions results and scholarship opportunities. Even though initially private tutoring might seem like it has a higher price tag, when you get that scholarship notification, it’s quite common that students see more than a return on their initial investment.
Strategies and Focus
Our tutors are experts at helping students develop personalized study plans that fit their needs. Depending on what your student needs, tutors might focus on strategic timing or specific sections of the exam at different times of the year to allow you to most effectively study and then superscore your tests.
This is what’s most often missing from group class settings. Material that is designed for a broad audience is bound to also focus on general strategies for test success. They might not account for learning differences or personal abilities. You might sign up for a SAT prep class, feeling like you really only need help on the math section, only to spend half of your time on the reading section. You could spend half a semester going over concepts you already understand, leading to not only frustration but an inefficient use of your time and money.
Conclusion
While we encourage families and students to do what is best for them and their budget, we know private tutoring to be the most effective route to change. While group classes provide a solid foundation at a lower price, they often neglect that individualized instruction that really forges change.
Still unsure? Contact Marks Education to schedule a free consultation or read our blogs on what to expect in different kinds of sessions with us!
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