Frequently Asked Questions

Tutoring Sessions

How long is each session?

Various studies (such as this one discussed in The Atlantic) have determined that the optimal uninterrupted work time for most people is about 52 minutes. However, just as teaching methods should adapt to suit a student’s learning style, so too should session length.

For academic subjects and test preparation alike, we recommend beginning with a length of one hour and then reevaluating based on the student’s needs.

Where do sessions take place?

Most sessions take place right at home.* If you live too far outside our service area, or meeting at home is not a possibility, our tutors are also able to meet at convenient public locations such as libraries or coffee shops.

*Note: If the student is a minor, a parent or guardian must be present.

Do you tutor groups?

In our experience, one-on-one tutoring offers the most effective learning experience for the student. In group sessions, a tutor must divide his or her time between multiple students, diluting the attention any one will receive and lessening the benefits of highly individualized sessions.

We do, however, offer small-group tutoring (3 students max) for students who are academically on the same level.

What materials should I have ready?

Material needs will vary from session to session, so check with your tutor in advance of the session.

Most sessions will require pencils, paper, and some of the student’s previous work or forthcoming assignments. For all sessions, tutors and students will benefit from a clutter-free workspace and low-distraction environment.

If you need some inspiration, check out our article on creating a great study space!

Do tutors give homework?

The decision to assign homework will always be a holistic one with input from the student (and parent/guardian if the student is a minor).

As with sessions themselves, homework is effective when it is of high quality and not necessarily high-quantity. If our tutors feel that their students could benefit from additional practice, they will work with the student to assign a manageable quantity of homework.

Our Tutors

How do you pick your tutors?

As a simple Google search will reveal, there are myriad tutoring companies, many of whom rely on Ivy-League buzz words to attract ambitious and well-intentioned learners.

We take a different approach, focusing instead on finding great tutors who connect with their students. On top of selecting for proven academic excellence, Brooklyn Math Tutors seeks dynamic individuals who are fun to work with, understanding of student needs, and passionate about their own interests.

How are students matched with tutors?

We match our students with prospective tutors holistically, based on both personality and experience. This is all the more important when finding tutors for our younger learners, for whom personal connections can make all the difference in motivation and retention.

What if the tutor is not a good fit?

If for whatever reason the tutor and student are not a good match, we are happy to identify the cause and remedy the situation.

Our goal is always to provide a valuable and engaging tutoring experience for our students, and we encourage you to voice any questions or concerns so that you can get the most out of your sessions.

Why should I choose private tutoring over a learning center?

While learning centers may be helpful for some students, they are not a one-size-fits-all solution. Learning centers may be a good choice for a student that simply needs more practice, however they often fail at identifying and filling in a student’s conceptual deficits.

One-on-one tutoring is much better suited for this challenge, as tutors can craft lesson plans to address each student’s unique needs.

Account, Billing, and Policies

How do I set up my account?

Your account will be set up over the phone, or, if you prefer, via our online registration form.

How does billing work?

Once you have gotten your account set up, billing is as simple as ensuring that you have a valid credit card on file.

At the end of each month you will receive an email invoice with all of your sessions for that month. Your card will be billed on the 3rd of the month. If you find any problems with the invoice, please let us know asap!

What form of payment do you accept?

For individuals, we accept payment via credit card.

For organizations who wish to use our services, we can also accept checks.

What is your cancellation policy?

You can cancel your session for any reason with at least 24 hours notice. Out of courtesy to our tutors, we do charge for the session if it is canceled within 24 hours of the scheduled time.

We are human, of course, and understand that life can be unpredictable. If you must unexpectedly cancel your session due to sickness or other unforeseeable circumstances, just give us a call: (718) 552 0300.

Can’t find the answer to your questions?

We love talking to parents, and are always happy to help out or answer some questions.

Call us directly at (718) 552 0300e-mail us at Team@BrooklynMathTutors.com, or fill out the form.

Please let us know as much as possible about your situation, and include your phone number as well a good time to reach you.

Phone calls are usually answered right away, and emails are usually returned within 24 hours, though it may take us longer on weekends.

We look forward to speaking with you.

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