One thing I’ve started noticing while tutoring is how tempting it is to just tell a student the answer. When a student is stuck, the easiest thing to do is explain the method straight away and show them how to solve the problem. But I’ve realised that when I do that, they often understand it in the moment but then struggle to do a similar question later on.

Something that seems to work better is slowing down and asking more questions instead. Rather than explaining everything immediately, I’ll ask things like “what do you think the first step might be?” Even if they don’t get it completely right, it helps them start thinking about the structure of the problem rather than waiting for the solution.

I’ve also noticed that students often know more than they think they do. Sometimes they just need a small nudge to get started. Once they answer one small part of the question, they usually become more confident and are more willing to try the next step. It kind of changes the energy of the session because it becomes less about me explaining things and more about them working it out.

Tutoring has made me realise that learning isn’t really about getting the answer quickly. It’s more about understanding the process and building confidence to try things even when you’re unsure. Sometimes giving students a bit more time to think, even if it feels slightly uncomfortable at first, actually leads to much better learning in the long run.

Lily Powell