Hiring a tutor can be one of the best calls when it comes to improving your mathematics performance. From geometry to calculus and linear algebra, some math subjects are harder to grasp than others. Whether it's for a student in middle school who needs additional help with test prep or a high school student that is preparing for college applications, hiring a math tutor is an excellent option.
Of course, for some, finding the right online math tutor can be difficult. You want to balance affordability without sacrificing teaching potential. Here's what you need to know.
1. Consider multiple skill sets.
When you're choosing a math tutor, you may think you just want to pick someone with years of experience providing math help. While this is the sensible choice, some online tutors are newer to the game than others. While years of experience look great on paper, you want someone who is well-rounded and can help with all of a student's needs. Whether it's middle school math or high school algebra, finding a tutor who is well-rounded is a good choice.
2. Think about the future.
Even if you're only looking for some help with math homework for your middle school student, it's always a good idea to consider the future of your student's academic career. Even if your student has mastered some essential concepts, you should think about whether or not they'll need ongoing help. Some high school students may need assistance impressing a department of mathematics at a university. Others will simply require help with differential equations or calculus. If so, you may want to look for an online math tutor that you can work with for a longer amount of time.
3. Balance price and effectiveness.
It's likely no surprise that some online math tutors are more expensive than others. An online math tutor should offer the right mix of affordability and experience. Companies like Thinkster are taking innovative approaches to tutoring by prioritizing a student's individualized needs rather than applying a one size fits all approach. This way, tutors can provide students with specific and actionable advice so that they can succeed on their own.
Prices may also vary based on the subjects being taught. For instance, a complex analysis of advanced geometry may run you more in hourly fees than middle school algebra. You want to ensure that you're seeing a return on your investment, as well. If you've chosen an online math tutor and your student isn't seeing improvements or still needs additional math help, this may indicate that you need to rethink your partnership. Consider test prep as well which, in some cases, requires a different online math tutor than one that simply provides assistance with math homework.
4. Find the right fit for you and your family.
If you're looking for an online math tutor for yourself, you'll want to see if you can develop a rapport and whether or not you work well with your tutor. If you're hiring an online math tutor for a student or your child, they not only need to work well with them but with you as well. If a tutor's teaching style doesn't work well for a given math subject or you're finding it hard to connect to them, it could simply be a case of the wrong fit. Many services allow you to do a bit of experimenting with a given online math tutor so you can find the right one for both you and your family.
Finding a tutor can be a lengthy process. It takes time and patience to find the right person or service. Especially now, in the face of ongoing remote learning requirements, an online math tutor needs to have significant experience and also be personable enough to handle a digital learning session. By following a few key tips, you'll find it's that much easier to find the right math tutor for your unique needs.
