How to Find the Perfect Test Prep Tutor

There isn’t a one-size-fits-all type of standardized test prep that works best for everyone, so the type of test prep to choose depends on the type of learner your student is, and how much time, energy and money you are willing to put in. Some students like the flexibility of online programs, while other students prefer the personalization that one-on-one tutoring offers, and still others find being in a classroom setting to be most stimulating.

Take a minute to think about how your student learns best. The best tutors also know how to tailor their teaching approach for each student’s learning style. Ideally, your tutor will be able to diagnose your students strengths and weaknesses, and customize your tutoring sessions to give your student the best possible outcome. You want your tutor to be able to identify content gaps, create a strategy, give you effective and proven tips on how to attack each type of question, and make a plan for how you can budget your time efficiently.

Also, always ask for references for your potential tutor. If you are working with a test prep company, ask to speak with the tutor that you are being assigned to before hiring them. The expertise of the particular tutor you are working with is more important than the reputation that the tutoring company has. When speaking with your potential tutor, ask how he or she keeps students motivated, how he or she assesses testing strengths and weaknesses and how he or she gauges progress and a student’s potential score.

Most importantly, though, you should trust your gut and find a tutor that you are going to enjoy spending time with! I have a few different types of tutors I am happy to refer.