10 Tips for Choosing an Effective Tutor
  1. Make sure they speak a language you understand (if they do not, get an interpreter).
  2. Ask how their previous students are doing. If they are currently on probation, ask why.
  3. Be clear about your objectives. Set realistic goals and monitor them closely. Ask the tutor for feedback on your progress each session.
  4. Avoid tutors who like to tell unbelievable stories to impress you, "... I crammed for Calculus, all of differential equations in one night...." or other such delusions.
  5. Also avoid tutors with a tendency to show up late for your session, drunk, or in a late-model Ferrari. They are not always to be trusted.
  6. Also avoid tutors who don't show up at all.
  7. Check for tutoring at the "academic assistance office" or whatever they call it on your campus. Such tutors are often free, which can be an advantage, at times.
  8. Find a tutor who seems to know the subject and can explain it well.
  9. If you can't find the tutor described in 8. above, try to (at least) find one who is currently not wanted by the police or FBI.
  10. With the best tutors, you will find that you are often still awake when they are finished explaining something of great importance to you. Try to find a tutor like this.