Top Ten Tutoring Tips

1. In one-to-one tutoring, behave as a friend or classmate who has been asked to help.
2. Informality does not mean disorganization. Have a clear purpose and plan of action.
3. Two important ingredients in tutoring:
   a) Tutor Empathy--feeling for the student’s difficulty; and
   b) Tutor Knowledge of Subject-- tutor must be able to explain in terms the student can understand. If you don’t know, admit it. The student will also feel comfortable admitting his/her deficiencies.
4. Discourage student passivity. Encourage active learning. Have the student involved in learning. If you were the teacher, what would be the important subjects to be taught?
5. Be prepared to provide the “important stuff.” The student has the right to expect direction when he/she receives tutoring.
6. present the material in small units. Check and recheck learning. Don’t just ask, “Do you understand?” See or hear that they do! Don’t rush the student.
7. Be flexible. No one style of tutoring fits all situations.
8. Be specific when making assignments for the next session.
9. Don't do the students’ work for them. Allow for failure and learning to take place. The goal is independent learning.
10. Visit with professors when necessary.