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Hiring a tutor

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1. Call around and speak with different tutors;
   • In general, if you can not understand a tutor over the phone, they will not be able to help you.
   • Calling around will also allow you to compare rates. Most rates fall between $15 and $50 per hour; however, speciality subjects and standardized test subjects can sometimes cost more.
   • Note: some tutors charge extra for travel and many do not travel. Be sure to make sure you know where you will be meeting.
   • Ask for qualifications: degrees, teaching experience, years tutoring.
   • If your tutor is not helping you, then fire them! Even a tutor that you have had for years can be outgrown.
2. Recommended time restrictions:
   • In general, it is recommended that sessions run for an hour.
   • More than an hour is normally brain fry and can hurt you more than help you; and it costs more.
   • If more than an hour is required, often either the student is not prepared or the tutor is not doing their job.
   • The only time session should go for more than an hour is when the student is behind and needs to catch up or possible immediately before a test or final.
3. Being prepared:
   • Attempt at least every other odd and come up with at least five questions that you do not understand how to do or that is taking too long.
   • Bring book, paper, pencil, eraser and any other paperwork that is also useful such as old tests and homework assignments.