During the first session, a tutor will assess your student's current understanding, identify specific areas where they're struggling, and learn their learning style. Whether it's word problems, multi-step equations, or graphing, the tutor will create a personalized plan tailored to your student's needs and pace. This foundation helps ensure every session builds on what your student actually understands, not just what they've memorized.

Word problems require students to translate language into mathematical thinking—a skill that takes practice and strategy. Expert tutors teach students how to break down problems step-by-step, identify what information matters, and choose the right approach. With personalized instruction, students learn to see patterns across different types of problems and build the confidence to tackle unfamiliar scenarios.

Showing work helps teachers (and tutors) understand how your student is thinking, not just whether they got the answer right. It's also a crucial skill for higher math—algebra, geometry, and beyond all require clear explanations of reasoning. Tutors help students develop this habit by teaching them how to organize their thinking and communicate their problem-solving strategies effectively.

Yes. San Jose has 58 school districts using different curricula—some schools use traditional approaches, others use more conceptual frameworks. Varsity Tutors connects you with tutors who are flexible and experienced across different textbook systems and teaching styles. They'll align with what your student is learning in class while reinforcing the underlying concepts that matter across all approaches.

Math anxiety often stems from feeling lost or unsupported—personalized tutoring changes that by providing a patient, pressure-free space to ask questions and make mistakes safely. When students work with a tutor one-on-one, they experience success on problems they can actually understand, which rebuilds their confidence. Over time, they start to see themselves as capable math learners rather than 'not a math person.'

Pricing varies based on the tutor's expertise, your location in San Jose, and how frequently your student needs support. Varsity Tutors works with tutors at different experience levels, so you can find options that fit your budget. We recommend starting with a consultation to discuss your student's needs and get matched with a tutor whose rates and availability work for your family.

It depends on your student's specific challenges and goals. Some students benefit from weekly sessions to build foundational understanding, while others need support during tougher units. A tutor can recommend a frequency based on your student's learning pace and the concepts they're working on in class. Many families find that consistent, regular sessions—even if it's just once a week—create momentum and help students stay caught up.