Many students struggle with regrouping (borrowing) in multi-digit subtraction, confuse subtraction with addition, or have difficulty translating word problems into subtraction equations. Some students also rush through problems without checking their work or understanding why the strategy works, rather than just memorizing steps. Personalized 1-on-1 instruction helps identify exactly where a student gets stuck and builds understanding from that point forward.

During an initial session, a tutor will assess your student's current subtraction skills—including single-digit facts, two-digit problems, and regrouping—to pinpoint specific gaps or misconceptions. The tutor will then create a personalized plan that builds on what your student already knows and addresses their unique challenges. This diagnostic approach ensures every session is focused and productive rather than reviewing material your student has already mastered.

Effective tutors teach multiple strategies so students can choose what works best for them: counting back, using number lines, part-part-whole models, and the standard regrouping algorithm. Teaching multiple approaches helps students understand that subtraction is flexible and builds deeper conceptual understanding rather than reliance on one memorized method. A tutor will guide your student toward strategies that match their learning style and gradually build toward the standard algorithm.

With consistent personalized tutoring, many students show noticeable improvement in 4-6 weeks as gaps are identified and targeted practice begins. However, the timeline depends on your student's starting point and how frequently they receive tutoring and practice at home. Regular sessions combined with brief daily practice typically accelerates progress more than sporadic tutoring alone.

Look for tutors with experience teaching elementary math, a strong understanding of how students learn subtraction conceptually, and the ability to explain strategies clearly. Tutors should be skilled at diagnosing misconceptions (like thinking you always subtract the smaller number from the larger) and patient in building confidence alongside skills. Varsity Tutors connects you with expert tutors who have proven experience helping students master foundational math concepts.

Many students can compute subtraction correctly but struggle to identify when to subtract in a word problem or set up the equation. A tutor teaches students to read carefully, identify key words, visualize the problem, and translate it into a subtraction equation—skills that transfer across all math word problems. Breaking word problems into manageable steps and practicing with varied contexts builds both comprehension and confidence.

Ask your tutor for specific practice activities and strategies to reinforce between sessions—even 10-15 minutes of daily practice makes a significant difference. Use real-world opportunities like cooking, shopping, or games to make subtraction meaningful and fun. Avoid drilling isolated facts without context; instead, focus on building understanding through hands-on activities and encouraging your student to explain their thinking aloud.