No student learns the same as another. It's my job to figure out how you learn and how best to explain a concept so you fully understand it.

I ask broad questions about school in general, liked and disliked subjects, and how they manage school and life. I like to drill down to find the root of the problem, whether it may be issues understanding information in class, time management, or a lack of interest in a topic. Once we come up with a clear issue, I like to create a plan with the student on how to solve it; then get to work!

I'm all about passing on the tools of the trade. I always bring handouts with me that may help a student become a better learner. While I think tutoring can help anyone, tutors are really only there to get students to a point where they can continue learning and achieving on their own.

Keeping an eye on the big picture is key. Want to go to college? Is there a trade school you're interested in? Whatever big goals are ahead, look at how this class or this assignment is a small step in that direction.

I would try other ways of explaining the concept or take a break. Sometimes, changing topics and coming back gives students a new perspective or view of the topic at hand.

I have many different note-taking techniques and ways of organizing thoughts and ideas. These tend to help learners like me, who have poor short term memories. Keeping track of the main idea can be very helpful in starting to understand the details of a story or concept.

Staying positive is more helpful! No one likes to struggle, so if I can show that learning is fun and struggling is not wrong, the student has a better chance of being willing to learn. Negativity does not help learning at all.

Sometimes, I make a connection to their life; how will this information help them later on? If we can't find an easy connection, I'll share why it's exciting to me or others. Sometimes, it's just about challenging the student on outcomes. I might ask, "Wouldn't it be great to improve your grade?"

I use a few different techniques depending on the topic or situation: quizzing out of textbooks, asking the student to teach me the topic, or doing extra problems or additional worksheets.

Praise is a huge part of tutoring. Even a little achievement of getting an answer correct or even partially correct is huge. As confidence builds, students are more willing to learn and take chances to extend and challenge their knowledge.

A mix of talking and testing is important. I'll always ask students first what they want help with. If I have a feeling it's something else, I'll test them on the knowledge directly. Between those two ways, I can narrow down what's really needed.

It may be the way I'm sitting, talking, or moving during the session. It may be more specific with how I'm explaining a topic. I'm always watching the student to see if I need to make changes. I know sometimes students don't want to say they don't understand me, so I'll just ask.

Depending on the subject, I can have my laptop and tutoring binder with me. These have lots of worksheets and handouts. I also tend to carry "fidget" items, small toys that help some people focus. The Internet is always a great resource, and I have lots of "go-to" websites in my arsenal.