Rather than just teaching the steps to solve a problem, tutors help students see the patterns and connections behind the math. For example, a tutor might use visual models or manipulatives to show why regrouping works in subtraction, or help a student discover the relationship between multiplication and division. This deeper understanding makes it easier for students to apply what they've learned to new problems and builds lasting confidence in math.

Showing work helps teachers (and tutors) understand how a student is thinking, not just whether they got the right answer. It reveals where misconceptions might be hiding and makes it easier to catch small errors before they become bigger problems. Tutors can use a student's work to guide them toward better problem-solving strategies and help them organize their thinking in ways that make math feel less overwhelming.

Yes. Varsity Tutors connects you with tutors who understand the different approaches and textbooks used across Salt Lake City's 16 school districts, whether it's traditional algorithms, Singapore Math, or other methods. When a tutor knows what your student is learning in class, they can reinforce those same strategies and help bridge any gaps between home practice and classroom instruction.

Math anxiety often comes from feeling rushed or confused, which personalized tutoring directly addresses. Tutors work at a student's pace, celebrate small wins, and help reframe mistakes as learning opportunities rather than failures. Over time, as students experience success and build confidence in their problem-solving abilities, anxiety typically decreases and they become more willing to tackle challenging problems.

The first session is focused on understanding your student's strengths, challenges, and learning style. The tutor will likely review recent classwork or assessments, ask questions to uncover where understanding breaks down, and get a sense of what motivates your student. This foundation helps the tutor create a personalized plan that targets the specific concepts your student needs to master.

Word problems require students to read carefully, identify what information matters, and translate words into mathematical operations—skills that don't always come naturally. Tutors teach strategies like underlining key information, drawing pictures or diagrams, and breaking problems into smaller steps. With practice and guided feedback, students learn to approach word problems systematically rather than feeling stuck at the start.

Varsity Tutors connects you with tutors who have demonstrated expertise in elementary mathematics, whether through teaching credentials, advanced degrees, or extensive tutoring experience. Each tutor is vetted to ensure they can explain concepts clearly and adapt their teaching to different learning styles. You can discuss a tutor's background and approach during the initial connection to make sure it's a good fit for your student.