I like to, as quickly as possible, try to understand where a student is coming from, and how much they already know. Meeting a student where they are helps them feel more confident, and starts the learning process off right! How can you help a student become an independent learner? Students become independent learners by practicing the skill of "problem formulation." Students, with my help, become more able to identify their own gaps in understanding and knowledge. They also learn when to turn to various resources, and how to break down tasks into more manageable segments. By facilitating these skills, I find that my students become more able to study and learn on their own, beyond the tutoring sessions. How would you help a student stay motivated?