Education
Fact-checked

At WiseGEEK, we're committed to delivering accurate, trustworthy information. Our expert-authored content is rigorously fact-checked and sourced from credible authorities. Discover how we uphold the highest standards in providing you with reliable knowledge.

Learn more...

How Do I Become a Live Math Tutor?

Kristeen Moore
Kristeen Moore

In order to become a live math tutor, you will need to have a great deal of education, as well as some experience if you want to build a successful career. You will first need to obtain formal training in some form of mathematics. The best way to find and retain clients is to specialize in certain fields of math, as opposed to the general subject as a whole. Before you become a live math tutor full-time, you might have to act as a volunteer or work on a part-time basis in order to establish yourself as a credible professional in the field. When looking for live tutoring jobs, you will likely make more money in a tangible business, or you can even consider freelancing your academic services.

If you have not done so already, you must first go to school before you become a live math tutor. Professional math tutors have undergone some form of education or training in the field because this makes these individuals more knowledgeable and better able to help clients. Completing primary school might get you some jobs, but the most successful tutors attend higher education programs. For the best options in terms of employment, you might even consider a master’s degree. If you are currently enrolled in a math program, you might be able to obtain personal tutoring jobs for other students in your area while completing your degree.

A live math tutor must have formal training in mathematics.
A live math tutor must have formal training in mathematics.

Once you have decided to attend school for math, you will need to narrow your specialty area in certain forms of the subject. Generally, many clients are searching for a live tutor in specific forms of math, and not for the subject as a whole. Examples of specialties include algebra and geometry, as well as calculus, statistics, and trigonometry. The exception to this rule is if you are looking to tutor young children, as a general math background often suits such clients appropriately.

Live math tutors need to be effective communicators so they can clearly explain problems.
Live math tutors need to be effective communicators so they can clearly explain problems.

Before you can become a live math tutor on a full-time basis, you will most likely need to work as a part-time study assistant to gain experience. Full-time personal tutors are available in this particular field, but many of the professionals have worked their way up the career path. Keep in mind that many of the part-time live tutoring jobs available are often low-paying or uncompensated. Instead, you might consider volunteering your services while you are still in school so that you can gain some experience.

As you develop the foundations of your professional math tutoring career, it may be worthwhile to consider the areas of math tutoring you wish to specialize in. You might want to work as a math tutor for adults, or you might enjoy working with children. Similarly, you may find an interest in a specific math field, like calculus or geometry. Other math tutors opt to focus on standardized test preparation or basic math literacy.

A final consideration is where you can practice your math tutoring services. Live tutors can work from home online, but many professionals generally make more money through one-on-one services that are offered in person. As you establish yourself in the field, you could also potentially become a live math tutor on a freelance basis and make more money during the process.

Discuss this Article

Post your comments
Login:
Forgot password?
Register:
    • A live math tutor must have formal training in mathematics.
      By: Gennadiy Poznyakov
      A live math tutor must have formal training in mathematics.
    • Live math tutors need to be effective communicators so they can clearly explain problems.
      By: kolett
      Live math tutors need to be effective communicators so they can clearly explain problems.