This is a question that many parents ask. Unfortunately it is impossible to predict. Many test prep companies include in their advertising: “guaranteed 100 (or 200?) point improvement!” I put a similar statement on my first class brochure. A student came up to me the first day of class and asked if I could really guarantee that. I said no, and never included it on another brochure. Many students do improve, some by as much as 300 points. Others do not. We are all unique and we learn in different ways and at different rates. Students also come to the class with different strengths and weaknesses.

If students can learn and use the math techniques that I teach in class, they will improve. The techniques are not difficult and I feel that all students can understand them. But some students will take longer to integrate them and know when to use them. I can say confidently, that the best chance a student has to improve is to take a class from a good, experienced teacher, and practice as much as possible. It’s the same formula to improve at anything in life. I do assign homework in my classes, but not all students do the homework regularly. The more practice they’re willing to do on their own, the better their chances of improving. I’ve had some very positive feedback over the years from students whose scores went up significantly after working with me in a class, a small group or individually.