How to Study for Biochemistry

Biochemistry is a complex subject that is studied by thousands of students across the globe. You might be taking it in college because you’re interested in it or need it to get into medical school. There’s also the chance you’re reviewing it for your Step 1 USMLE exam on your path to becoming a physician.

Regardless of when or why you’re doing it, biochemistry can be a tough subject to learn. A lot of it wasn’t encountered in school or other subjects.

What Does Biochemistry Mean?

The term “bio” means life. Biochemistry is the study of chemistry and physico-chemical processes that occur in living organisms. The study of biochemistry is related to metabolism, nutrients, and how chemistry affects the lives of all living organisms on a molecular level.

It’s a very interesting topic to study because you get to find out things like how energy is made or where we get it from. There are many similarities between the biochemical reactions in humans (or animals in general) and unicellular organisms like bacteria, but there are glaring differences as well.

Understanding these similarities and differences has helped humanity and science grow. For example, antibiotics that target certain biochemical reactions are used to treat infections.

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How Hard is Biochemistry?

The difficulty of biochemistry lies in the fact that it’s completely new to many students. Terms like anaerobic glycolysis, Kreb’s cycle, and oxidative phosphorylation are encountered for the first time when a person studies biochemistry.

These topics may have been brushed briefly in school, but taking biochemistry as a course is a lot more complex. New terms like the Km and Vmax of enzymes can make things even more frustrating.

To conquer biochemistry, you need to take a deep breath and realize that you’ll have to give it time and effort. Trying to find out how to cram biochemistry is only a good idea if you’ve been over the material before. Cramming the subject for the first time in a few hours or a couple of days isn’t the best idea.

What Do All These Terms Mean?

  • What is PIP? PIP is short for phosphatidylinositol phosphate. It’s a lipid (fat) present in the cell membranes of different cells. PIP and its different forms play a role in cell signaling. They can activate other substances thereby initiating a cascade leading to changes in a cell’s functions.
  • What is pI in biochemistry? pI is the value of pH where a molecule has no electrical charge. It is also known as the isoelectric point.
  • What is Ki? Ki, also known as the inhibitor constant, indicates how potent an inhibitor of an enzyme is.
  • What does Km mean? Km is the concentration of substrate required for an enzyme to work at half of its maximum velocity.
  • What is Vmax? Vmax is the maximum velocity or speed at which an enzyme can work. Once an enzyme reaches Vmax, adding more substrate won’t have an impact on the reaction rate.
  • What is a motif in biochemistry? A motif is a structured made from amino acids with biological significance.
  • How are biochemistry and metabolism related? Metabolism is based on biochemical processes. The creation and breakdown of ATP and energy all rely on biochemical reactions. Some of these reactions also release heat.

How to Study for Biochemistry

Many students complain about not being able to study for their biochemistry exams. If you’re interested in learning how to succeed in biochemistry class, you need to learn to see things differently

  • Focus on the bigger picture. Understand the purpose of anaerobic glycolysis for example before getting stuck on the details. Knowing the reason a process happens will make the details seem more logical. This is one of the best ways on how to memorize biochemistry pathways.
  • Understand the terms and nomenclature. You won’t get very far in the curriculum if you have to keep going back to see what each term means. Familiarizing yourself with the nomenclature can help you in acing biochemistry.
  • Cramming biochemistry isn’t the way to go. Be prepared to put in the time.
  • Don’t be afraid to ask for biochemistry help. Hiring a tutor or joining an online course can simplify things and make learning easier.
  • Relate biochemical reactions and ideas to practical uses in science and medicine.

The above tips will be useful for everyone, but if you’re trying to find out how to study for biochemistry in medical school, you might want to do things a bit differently.

In medical school, you won’t have time to go into the intricate details of the subject. Focus on what’s relevant to medicine. If you don’t know how to identify valuable information, lots of tutors and courses can help.

The topics you’ll be tested on in medical school will almost always relate to your career. Things like how antibiotics affect biochemical reactions and diseases that occur when an enzyme is missing are vital.

What Can I Do with a Degree in Biochemistry?

A biochemistry degree is valuable and opens the door to many jobs. Most are related to research and teaching. You can also decide to pursue a career in medicine later and join medical school.

Having a degree in biochemistry can make one of the toughest subjects in med school seem like nothing to you. While others struggle, you can quickly review it and pay more attention to other important basic sciences like physiology and pharmacology.

Research jobs you can get with a degree in biochemistry:

  • Biomedical assistant
  • Clinical research associate
  • Analytical chemist
  • Healthcare scientist
  • Scientific lab technician

You can also pursue a career in teaching and academics. Teaching science in elementary or middle school would be within your capabilities. Additionally, you might decide on advancing your studies and becoming a college professor.

Biochemistry increases our understanding of how things happen. It tells us why we can’t sprint for long periods of time or how our body copes with fasting. It also allows those with biochemistry degrees to work in several fields.

While it might seem difficult at first, with persistence and time, and maybe even the help of a tutor, biochemistry can become one of your favorite subjects.

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How to Prepare for TOEFL

The TOEFL test is one that tests and evaluates a person’s English. It’s accepted by over 9,000 institutions across the world including almost all the top universities in the United States. The exam is particularly important for those who are applying to English speaking universities from foreign countries.

How is a university, company, or program supposed to judge your fluency and ability to read and write English? The TOEFL is arguably the best method available.

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The United States isn’t the only country that relies on the TOEFL to assess the English of students and applicants. Here are some other countries that do so:

  • Canada
  • United Kingdom
  • Germany
  • France
  • New Zealand
  • Numerous more countries in Europe and Asia

TOEFL scoring is fair and completely unbiased. All tests are scored via a centralized scoring network. As for the speaking section, it’s scored by people. The identity of the examinee is hidden to avoid any potential bias.

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What Does TOEFL Stand for?

TOEFL stands for Test of English as a Foreign Language. It’s mostly taken by those coming from countries that don’t speak English as a first language, but wish to apply to English speaking universities and institutions.

The most widely used version of the test is TOEFL IBT. IBT stands for Internet Based Test. The entire exam from A to Z is on a computer with no paper based sections. Paper based TOEFL tests are still in use, but only in countries and regions where Internet testing isn’t possible.

How Long is the TOELF Test?

The length of the TOEFL test has varied over the years. As of August 2019 it became 3 hours long. If you heard from a friend or colleague that it’s 4 hours, they’re not lying to you. It used to be 4 hours, but was shortened in August.

Here’s a list of the sections and their lengths:

  • Reading: 54 to 72 minutes
  • Listening: 41 to 57 minutes
  • Speaking: 17 minutes
  • Writing: 50 minutes
  • One 10-minute break after the reading and listening sections

The lengths of the reading and listening sections is variable because so is the number of questions in each one. Some versions of the test have more reading questions than listening ones and vice versa. You’ll notice this when solving TOEFL preparation books and mock exams.

There’s no way to find out which version you’ll get beforehand. You’ll need to prepare for both and feel comfortable with both sections if you want to do well.

The speaking and writing sections are constants. For the speaking section, you’ll talk into a microphone which will record your answers. You’ll have a certain amount of seconds to answer each question. The countdown timer will be on the screen so don’t worry about estimating the time yourself.

You’ll need to write two essays in the writing section and both are graded. To get a high score, your essay should be clear and the number of words in it should be within a certain range. Again, there’s a word counter on the test so you won’t have to count the words manually.

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What is a Good TOEFL Test Score?

TOEFL IBT is scored out of 120. Each section has a total score of 30. A good TOEFL score is one that’s above 90. Here’s a breakdown of how scores are usually viewed by schools and universities:

  • 90 to 100: good
  • 100 to 110: very good
  • 110-120: excellent

Don’t stress too much about scoring over 110 though. Try to get above 90 first, and if that’s easily achievable then you can aim higher.

Your primary goal should be to ask the schools you’re interested in applying to about their minimum requirements. Some institutions will ask for particularly high scores on certain sections of the exam.

By knowing the requirements of each of the schools you want to apply to, your studying will be more goal-oriented.

Test results come out in 10 working days and are valid for 2 years.

How to Prepare for TOEFL

Studying for the TOEFL test can require a couple of weeks at least. If you’re trying to find out how to prepare for TOEFL in a week, you might be disappointed. The length of your study period will be determined by how well you speak, read, understand, and write English. The better you are, the less time you’ll need to prepare.

You can start by looking online for a TOEFL practice test pdf to help you determine where you stand. Lots of online sources provide free assessments. Based on your score and weaknesses, you can set a study plan.

TOEFL tests a variety of skills. Each section will need separate preparation. The following advice is for everyone and can even help those who speak English fluently.

Reading

  • Read English texts, books, and passages at least 30 minutes each day
  • Any new or unfamiliar words should be looked up and added to your vocabulary
  • Analyze the text you’re reading and understand the insinuations hidden in it

Listening and Speaking

  • Watch English speaking movies, shows, and videos
  • Talk to friends in English or try to find a study partner you can communicate with in English over video chat
  • Familiarize yourself with different American accents

Writing

  • Your writing should get better as you read more
  • Write passages and articles and get other’s opinions on them
  • Check your writings for grammar and spelling mistakes

Practice, practice, and practice

  • There are plenty of TOEFL study guides and books with hundreds of practice questions that represent the exam
  • Time yourself in each section and make sure you finish with time to spare

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TOEFL Tips

The important thing is to relax while taking the test. You’ve done your studying and you’re already familiar with the exam’s format. You know what to expect and how to deal with it.

Take care of time, but don’t stress about it. There will always be a counter on the screen letting you know how much time you have to complete a question or section. Keep an eye on it, but don’t answer questions in a rush to avoid making silly mistakes.

There are no model answers for the speaking and writing sections, but there will be certain items that you’ll need to fulfill to get a good score. Review these requirements in your study sources and read model answers carefully.

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10 Best GED Tutors Near Me

Many don’t think of looking for GED tutors for adults, only for younger students.  Lots of students look to tutors to help them with their studies, but adult students and those looking to return to education are often overlooked. However, it is this group that just might benefit the most from finding a quality private tutor or at home tutor to help them complete their goal of a high school degree.  GED tutors can help you on your educational journey, and open doors that until now, you might have found closed.

What is the GED?

If you’ve never heard of GED tutors before, you’re probably wondering what GED even stands for. GED is short for General Educational Development, or General Education Diploma.

GED tutors for adultsBasically, it’s a diploma you can take to show that you have the same level of knowledge as a high school graduate, only it’s a lot quicker to complete than high school!  Many times the adults or younger students take the test because they have had to stop school for some reason, they have been home schooling, medical reasons and for a ton of other personal reasons.  By preparing for and taking the GED adults and teens are able to complete a huge milestone in life – a high school graduation.  Now, while adults won’t get to go to their prom this time around, having their GED will certainly open up many doors that might otherwise have been closed.

Generally, most people study and prep for a few months  for the exam and to prepare for the GED tests, which beats the 4 years it takes to complete high school.  This doesn’t mean it’s easier though. It still takes a lot of work to complete and pass your GED, as it tests you on everything you should know when graduating from high school. The subjects you’ll be tested on include mathematics, literature, science and social studies (history, politics, geography and the likes). So there’s a lot of information you’ll need to take in and remember.

Best GED Tutors Near You:

Why Should You Get Your GED?

It’s becoming more and more important for those that didn’t complete high school, but need additional educational qualifications for a career choice or to attend higher education.

Education and educational requirements have become much more highly valued in recent years, and employers are now expecting more and more from the people they employ. If you’re planning on changing careers or looking for a promotion, the experience might not be enough to land you that new job. Most employers now have education requirements as well. Taking your GED might just give you career opportunities that you hadn’t even dreamed of before as well as additional income because more education can lead to higher salaries.

If you’re interested in joining the military, then it’s the perfect qualification for you to ensure entrance into your selected branch of the military. In fact, the GED exam was created for the U.S military, so that soldiers’ general knowledge could be tested.  This exam plus the ASVAB exam are requirements that you might want to meet.

ASVAB tutorWith increasing value being placed on education, more people are attending university, whether because a degree is a necessity for certain jobs, or simply because they want to learn more about a certain subject. If you’re hoping to study for a degree, you’ll need to meet the educational requirements to be accepted into the program or course of your choice. This is where a GED comes in handy. GEDs are internationally recognized, so wherever you’re hoping to study, it could be your ticket in.

Even if you don’t have any specific need to attain a GED, it’s a great achievement to have if you feel you haven’t made the most of the educational opportunities that exist these days. It’s challenging, but it will boost your confidence in yourself, and refresh your knowledge.

How Can a GED Tutor for Adults Help You?

math section of act testThere are lots of tutors out there, but a GED tutor for adults will have more experience helping mature students, and will know exactly how to help you pass your GED.

Most tutors focus on helping students pass the general high school tests, but the GED isn’t quite the same, and requires a little more focus on the specifics of the test. While a general tutor might have the knowledge to help you study and prep, they might not be quite so well versed in applying that knowledge to the test in a way that receives a good score. This is why you should find a tutor who teaches GED students specifically.  They’ll be familiar with how the test works, and can guide you through it to help you do the best you can.

You Might Also Like: Look for GED Tutors

The GED is also a broad test which covers several subjects in reasonable depth, so you need a tutor who is able to teach you a variety of subjects alongside each other. A GED tutor for adults will be used to managing several subjects at once, and will be able to plan organized lessons that tackle each subject in turn. Once they’ve gotten to know you, they’ll have picked up on your strengths and weaknesses, and focus more on your weaker points, to help you bring up your score. Math is a tough subject for many of us and GED math tutoring is something that many adult (and teens) are looking for as they prep for their exam.

Finding a private tutor for GED who is used to teaching adult students will help you study around the rest of life’s goings on. They’ll be able to offer advice about how to fit in studying around a busy work or family schedule and still hit the test date ready and prepared for it. Being used to teaching mature students means they’ll be more understanding about how difficult it can be to return to education after several years, when life is in full swing.

If you find a GED tutor who is local, they should also be able to help you plan out your study time and sign up for the exam as well.  In addition, many of those local tutors will have GED tutoring materials that will be specific and cover exactly what you need to know to pass.

How to Find a GED Tutor for Adults

If you’ve decided to go ahead and find a tutor for the GED exam prep, the first place you should start is right here, online.

Many tutoring agencies have sites where you can search their databases for tutors that suit you. Search for a GED tutor for adults on any private tutoring site, and you should be have several options to consider for a private tutor for GED.  Best of all, you can find several  profiles of GED tutors to consider and depending on how you like to learn, you can find one that is a fit.

What to Look for in a Tutor for GED Test

You should make sure you find a tutor that suits you, one that you feel you’ll get on with, as you need to feel able to ask them for help and feedback.

It’s also important to make sure that they excel in the areas that you are weak. If your English skills are strong but Math is low, then finding a tutor that isn’t strong in Math won’t help you as much.

If your tutor has taken the exam themselves, find out how they did on the test? If they took other tests like the SAT or ACT, find out their scores on those tests as well. It’s important to have a tutor that can not only help with the subject matter but also with acing it in test taking as well.

With the tons of options we have available here, don’t be afraid to drop a few of them a message. Ask them questions about how they could help you, what their lesson plans are like, or even about how their previous students have done on their exams. After all, it’s their results that are critical to you at this point in time.  That’s the beauty of PrivateTutoringAtHome – you’ll always be able to find the perfect tutor after just a few clicks.

If you’re looking for somewhere to start, why not begin right here? Search for tutors on our site to find the perfect GED tutor for adults, and you’ll be well on your way to getting your GED, and all of the opportunities that come with it.

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Are MCAT Prep Courses Worth It?

Are MCAT prep courses worth it? Well, like so many things in life, that depends.  It depends on you and your motivation as well as the type and quality of the course that you choose to take. The MCAT, or Medical College Admission Test, is one of the most grueling standardized tests a student will come across.MCAT

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What is the MCAT?

The exam is required to gain access into virtually every medical school in the United States and most medical schools in Canada, therefore it may come as no surprise that prepping for the MCAT should be your top priority. Enrolling in an MCAT course is one way to ensure you adequately prepared and ready for whatever may be on the exam this year.

The problem is, there are many types of courses available, how do you know which one is the best. And at quite a price, are MCAT prep courses worth it? This article will help you understand the MCAT and why enrolling in a prep course may be a good idea for you.

While most standardized tests are know for their uniqueness and difficulty, the MCAT is on anther level above the rest! The test itself is administered over 7.5 hours, making it physically exhausting and extremely mentally draining. It is a multiple choice test (this doesn’t make it any easier) that tests applicants on the skills and knowledge required in medical school and when practicing medicine.

The content of the tests covers four sections;

  • Biological and Biochemical Foundations of Living Systems
  • Chemical and Physical Foundations of Biological Systems
  • Psychological, Social, and Biological Foundations of Behavior
  • Critical Analysis and Reasoning Skills

A score is given for each section, and the scores are added together to provide a total score that is reported around six or seven weeks after completion of the test.

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Test Preparation Resources

There are many test preparation tools available to students to help get ready for the MCAT, some are free and some come at a cost. Naturally, you want to prepare the best way possible, so how do you know if the free resources are reliable or if the paid MCAT prep courses are worth it?

Some high quality, legitimate resources include;

  • Official MCAT practice exams, section bank, flashcards, and sample tests. These are available from the AAMC website, produced by the Association of American Medical Colleges.
  • The Khan Academy MCAT Collection is free and easily accessible to use.
  • Speaking with students who have sat the MCAT is also worthwhile. It will give you an indication of how much time you need to prepare and you can learn from other people’s mistakes!  In addition, some of those that have taken it already might be willing to spend a little time with you preparing for your exam. It certainly doesn’t hurt to ask!
  • Using a qualified MCAT tutor. Private Tutoring at Home is an easy way to find a certified tutor in your area, one that can tailor-make study sessions to suit your needs and help you achieve your goals. While a tutor isn’t free, they usually cost a lot less than courses and can offer personalized sessions geared towards what and where you need the help and to spend the time.
  • MCAT prep courses are often detailed and high quality. Some of the popular ones are Kaplan MCAT course and the Princeton Review MCAT prep course. They vary in delivery and cost, but there are plenty of options out there. Keep reading to find out more about these courses.

MCAT Prep Courses: The Details

how to study for the greThere are many, many, many MCAT Prep courses available to prospective test takers. Naturally, the people that create these courses would like students to participate and will happily give a ton of reasons and reviews as to why theirs is the best.

This guide takes an objective view on the types of courses available, allowing you to make an informed decision and get the best results possible.

Let’s look at the type and style of MCAT Prep courses that are available;

  • Self-Paced Prep Courses – these are ideal if you need flexibility! Students are given an array of materials and a rough agenda to follow. The course is completed at a pace that suits the individual. The down side to self-paced prep courses is that they require a high level of independent motivation and the ability to manage time effectively. While the structure and content of the course is provided, each student will have to identify their own weaknesses – something that can be difficult to do for even the most dedicated students. Some self-paced courses offer customized content to help cater for individual needs, so if you choose this kind of course, look out for adaptable ones.
  • Live Online Prep Courses – if you like the idea of guided classes, but are unable to attend a physical class, then live online courses are a great option. You still have to commit to the set study schedule, but can do so from the comfort of your own home. This saves time traveling to and from class, as well as needing to carry books and resources with you. The key to a good live online MCAT prep course lies with the quality of teaching. They must be engaging and offer help and guidance both in and out of set class times, as well as providing resources and extra materials to help you make the most of your ‘out-of-class’ study time.
  • In-Person Prep Courses – for a more traditional approach to MCAT prep, opt for in-person courses. These allow for plenty of interaction and discussion with not only instructors, but with fellow test-takers as well. The teacher should offer direct guidance and provide assistance when and where it is needed. The fact that you have allocated and structured study time is a bonus, especially if you lack the internal motivation to get studying, but you also need to spend time outside of class studying too. Make sure your course instructor is able to provide extra study materials as well as being on hand to answer questions and queries in between classes.
  • Intensive Prep Courses – intensive courses are great for those with limited study time and the ability to work well under pressure and time constraints. These courses are also great for those who want a strong boost of knowledge and skills. They are often of incredibly high quality, but are so time consuming that you won’t be able to fit much more into your schedule. Intensive prep courses can also be expensive, but if you have the time and the money, they may just be worth it.

The best MCAT prep course for you will depend on several factors:

  • Your individual learning style
  • Available time
  • Budget
  • And strengths and weaknesses all play a part in deciding what approach will suit you best.

So… Are MCAT Prep Courses Worth It?

MCAT prep courses are costly, there’s no way around that fact. For some, the cost may be just too much to bear, with time and money better spent using free tools (there are plenty of them), spending a small sum on prep books and official practice tests, or enlisting the help of a tutor at a fraction of the cost.

If you are basically motivated and organized, you may not need to invest your cash in these courses. However, if you need structure in your study schedule and allocated class time to ensure you prepare, then MCAT prep courses will be incredibly useful. Equally, if you can spare the funds, you have nothing to lose. The large sum is a small drop in the ocean in order to give yourself the best preparation possible, ensuring academic success and the results on the test that you need this year.

The best MCAT prep course is only going to make sense if you’re willing to put the time and energy into it.  Nothing beats good ‘ole fashioned effort and that’s what getting good scores on tests like this require.  If you are willing to put the time in, then it’s likely that you’ll get a score that makes you happy and be one step closer to getting into medical school. Good luck!

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Why Reading is Important: 14 Ways Reading Helps Your Life

Why reading is important is a question most parents have heard from kids or even their partners. You’ve probably heard it a hundred times or more – read, it’s good for you! But does anyone actually answer your question of ‘why reading is good for you?’

Private TutorsThe good news is that simply by reading this article, you are beginning to understand what reading can do for you. Our goal here is to help you understand why reading is good for your health, what reading can do for you as well as the scientific benefits of it.

Reading Benefits:

Scientific Benefits of Reading

summer brain drainThe scientific benefits of reading are becoming more and more known, here are some of the top scientific explanations as to why you should pick up that book!

  • Boost brain power – in the same way that going for a run improves your cardiovascular fitness, reading will help enhance your memory and brain function. As we get older, both these functions tend to decline. Regular reading can significantly delay this decline as well as helping to prevent the onset of diseases such as Alzheimer’s. Reading helps your mental sharpness to stick around a little longer, much more so than watching a movie!
  • Reducing stress – immersing yourself with a good page-turner can help switch off from the pressures of day-to-day life. Research suggest that even reading a book for a mere six minutes after a stressful day is a great way to relax and recharge the batteries, even more so than listening to music – another favorable stress-busting technique. Try reading for a few minutes each day, or on your commute to work (providing your not driving of course!)
  • Improves empathy – understanding others will lead to positive and long-lasting relationships. Engaging with literary characters can help the brain make connections that help the reader understand other points of view and help with recognizing emotions. Just like athletes use visualization techniques to improve muscle memory to enhance their sporting performance, reading novels can help brain connectivity.

Why Reading is Good for Your Health

Why reading is good for your healthWhile many of us understand that reading might have benefits on our mind as well as our memories (and that’s critical the older we get), understanding our it might help our overall health is not quite as well known.  Here’s just a few reasons to consider reading more:

  • Increases motivation – people who read books about people doing things, fact or fiction, are more likely to engage in the activity themselves. This could be drastic and crazy such as climbing mountains or taking on large travel adventures, or simple like taking up a new hobby such as cooking or knitting.
  • Can combat poor mental health – improving mental health often goes hand in hand with reducing stress, but reading about others in similar situations is useful too. Biographies are great way to understand that you are not alone in your battle, and the large number of self-help books allows people to access advice and guidance from the comfort of their own home without stigma or embarrassment. Naturally, professional medical advice should also be sought.
  • Independent thinking – characters and plots are often portrayed in ways to sway our thinking. Authors usually deliberately make characters likable or loathed, but every so often we come across a book that makes us think outside the typical box. You may like the story, but not the characters, or vice-versa. This highlights our individuality and makes for great conversation when discussing a book with others.
  • Armchair education – reading biographies and other factual or historical books will provide an abundance of knowledge. Even reading articles such as this one will teach you something. However, even fictional books based around true events or set in specific historical periods will captivate us even more and we learn without even realizing it!

Old School Paper Books vs Modern Day e-Readers

Man read tablet coffeeE-readers are becoming more and more popular, and don’t get me wrong, they are great! They have the capacity to store large numbers of books on a small device which is great when traveling or commuting. But there is something special about turning the paper pages of a book. The good news is that many e-reader owners still love a printed book, and here are some reasons why this should continue;

  • Sleep better – including reading as part of a bedtime routine can help signal to your body that the time for sleep is near. However, using an e-reader can actually wake the brain up courtesy of the backlit screen. Reading a printed book by a lamp is a much better way to slow the body down and prepare for a good night’s rest. Plus it aids in all the other ways that we’re covering here.
  • Improves memory function – turning pages will actually help you remember what you have read more so than ‘clicking’ to the next page. Many people may find this is the reason they print important documents rather than reading them off a computer screen. Books also allow for easier flicking back and forth to help remember important events or characters.

How Does Reading Make You Smarter?

Reading is beneficial at any age, but like most things, the earlier you start the better. Not only does it help form positive habits, but it may also make you smarter – something that will help significantly with your education. Some of the benefits of reading for students and young people include;

  • Reading can help children develop a longer attention span, and when it comes to schooling this one has obvious benefits. Because stories have a structure that includes and beginning, middle and end, children are captivated for a fairly lengthy amount of time.
  • Exposure to vocabulary – reading exposes students to around 50% more words than television or even conversation. As children, and adults for that matter, read they come across new words regularly. These new words then tend to be used in conversation and writing. Using a larger array of words will make you not only sound more intelligent, but you will generally be more intelligent. In the case of students, those that have a larger vocabulary are more likely to gain attention from their teachers which can improve confidence and promote further learning.
  • Improved reading comprehension, spelling, grammar is seen in those children who read for fun. Creating a love and habit for reading at an early age has a profoundly positive impact on education. Exposure through story time, following parental leads and positive encouragement, are all ways to promote reading.
  • Developing the imagination and creativity. Children who read do not necessarily go on to be writers, journalists or editors. The creative part of the brain is wide.y used when students read – they imagine themselves in the story line. Creativity is the key to success in many careers, and so much of it can be gained from reading!
  • Reading provides entertainment you can take anywhere! Books, especially those developed for children are often small and portable. E-readers are even more compact and can store thousands of stories. Whether a child is camping, waiting for the bus, eating a snack or preparing for bed – reading can be done virtually anywhere, any time! No more “I’m bored” statements!

Find a Reading Tutor Near You!

Hopefully you’ve got a few ideas of why reading is important and what reading can do for you at this point?  If so, then the goal of our post was successful!  And if you need help with reading this year or if you are prepping for the SAT Reading test and want to improve your skills for life as well as a big test, then we can help with that!   Whatever the case, the next time you get a few minutes, find yourself a good book on any topic and get started reading!

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How to Find a Private Tutor Near Me: What You Need to Know

The most common phrase we hear from parents and students is, “I want to find a private tutor near me!” Because when you realize that a course (or semester) isn’t quite going the way that you would like, getting fast and effective help is what you are looking for. Any current or past student will be able to tell you that education, and the exams that come with it, aren’t all that easy. Sometimes a little extra help is exactly what students need to help them reach their full potential and those higher grades – and that’s why you want to find a private tutor near you.

What to Look For In a Private Tutor

There are hundreds of private tutors here, and if you’re going to spend money on extra tuition you want to make sure that out of those hundreds, you find the right private tutor for you.

The first thing you should check is their qualifications. Before you start paying a tutor, you need to know that they’re qualified to teach the subject and at the level you need help. If you need tutoring for a specific subject, look for a tutor who has graduated in that subject area, taken several related courses on the topic – someone who is a specialist in that field. Or if you need a tutor for a younger student, who hasn’t yet narrowed down the subjects that they’re studying, a tutor with a teaching degree and experience working with children of similar ages might be more suitable.

private tutor teaching

Everyone has different learning styles, so if you need lessons that are more specific than general teaching methods to help you take everything in, ask potential tutors if they’d be able to cater to different learning styles. You could even ask for a sample lesson plan.

If you’re seeking tutoring before an upcoming exam, it’s also worth asking tutors if they’re familiar with your exam board and mark schemes. This way, they can help you learn exactly what you need to know, and give you tips on how to present answers in an examiner friendly manner.

The private tutoring cost is also something you want to consider when looking for a tutor. Generally, tutors charge per hour, and the cost is usually between $15 and $45. How much tutor charges can be an indicator of their experience. Tutors that have cheaper hourly rates may not have that much experience, but equally, if a tutor is a little on the expensive side, you should check that they can justify their private tutoring cost with relevant qualifications and experience.

Why Is It Important to Find a Private Tutor Near Me? Why Not Just Use an Online Tutor?

It’s all very well to find the perfect tutor ready and able to assist you in whatever course or area you are looking for, but if they’re located hundreds of miles away, they’re not going to be much help. You need a tutor that’s only a few miles away.

There are a lot of online tutors and resources nowadays, which might seem like the easier option, but finding a tutor who will deliver lessons in person will help you progress much more quickly. Often, online tutors and resources are for generic use by many students. A tutor near you will get to know you personally and cater to your individual abilities and learning style.

GRE Private TutorA local tutor is more likely to be familiar with your school’s syllabus and exam processes and requirements, as most of their students will attend the same schools. Often, local tutors are in contact with the teachers at local schools, and work with them to improve students’ points of weaknesses. So hiring a private tutor near you means that you’ll be getting personal support from all angles. If this is the case, you might find that local tutors can even deliver their lessons within your school, so that lessons can take place in a safe and familiar environment, and make use of all of the possible resources.

You Might Also Be Interested In: Home Tutors & Private Tutors

If you plan on having the lessons either at your own home or your tutor’s home, obviously you’ll need your tutor to be close by. Having a private tutor near you will make it much easier to plan lessons last minute should you find out you quickly need help in some area or before a test, and at times that suit you both. The closer your tutor is, the more flexible you’ll be able to be with lessons and schedules generally.

The closer the tutor, the less the private tutoring cost will be. If you have to travel to them, remember to take into account the cost of fuel on top of their hourly rate. If they travel to you, you might find the hourly rate is a little more expensive to cover the cost of their journey, or they may even ask for fuel money on top of the lesson price.  A local tutor  in your area will save both of you the hassle of any additional mileage or travel expenses.

How Can I Find Private Tutors Near Me?

Now that you’ve made the decision to find a private tutor near you, the next step is to determine just how to find one near you.  Most of us don’t have a long list of tutors readily available for whatever topics either we or our child might need.

One of the easiest ways to be put in contact with reliable tutors near you is to use an agency or website that offers top-notch private tutors. Tutors that work with an organization are usually required to undergo background checks and have to meet certain levels of qualification and experience requirements, so you can be sure you’re in safe hands.  And these days, making sure that there are some qualifications checks, as well as verification of the tutor themselves, adds a level of safety and security that is important for you and/or your child.

A private tutoring site also makes it easy to find a whole range of tutors in one place. Rather than continuously searching different websites, you can just search their database of tutors to see the wide selection of tutors that might be able to help you. So whether you are looking for college math tutors or just want to know how to easily find a math tutor for your child, this is a fast, secure and easy way to do that.  No matter where you live, there is bound to be a range of suitable tutors near you.

Mathematics Tutor Elementary

Another advantage to using an organization is that you’ll be dealing with a company rather than just an individual. If your tutor can longer make a lesson, you may be able to quickly find a replacement. Or if you have any issues, the company will help you resolve them in the best way they can.

There are of course other ways to find private tutors. You could also find private tutors near you by asking your school if they know any tutors that they’d recommend. Teachers will know what their students need to help them progress and excel at the course as well as the subject matter, and will be able to suggest tutors that the school knows are reliable, trustworthy, and suitable for your needs. The only trouble with finding a tutor this way is that the school may be in contact with limited tutors, so searching online is definitely the best way to go.

You don’t even have to search for too long, in fact, you can search for tutors right here on our site. We have a huge database of tutors, ready to teach you everything you need to know and help you pass any upcoming exams with flying colors.

Plus, we make it super simple with our “Good Fit Guarantee”!  Try a tutor and see if there’s a fit and if they can help, and if it doesn’t work out.  You don’t pay for the first session.  What could be easier than that?

So simply type in your zip code and subject or subjects in the 2 boxes and before you know it, you’ll have tons of qualified, affordable and knowledgeable tutors that meet your criteria of a “private tutor near me” that are ready to help you reach your goals starting right now!

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Can a Private Math Tutor Help?

Math TutorThe transition from early math of elementary school to that of middle and high school can be difficult for many kids.  It’s also a time when parents are frequently in search of academic assistance and support in areas such as English, languages or looking for a quality 7th grade math tutor.   Whether you’d like your child to earn higher grades or just to make academic life easier for your child, tutoring is always a good option. 7th grade is a big step further into various mathematical areas such as algebra, geometry, measurements, fractions and so much more.  What your student learns this year will be the basis for higher level mathematics, and we are all aware that the base is what makes the house stable and firm, so making sure kids firmly understand the fundamentals now is critical for future success.

Why Tutoring?

Students in 7th grade are in transition at this age and children often have problems concentrating and keep the focus on the topic at hand. They wander away, don’t listen closely and math is not the first thing on their “to do” list when they get home. Tutoring will help your child understand what he or she missed in class as well as getting additional practice for the topic being covered. For my son, when I realized that he had a gap in what he knew and what he was expected to know about mid-year, the tutor was able to help him get an understanding on those topics well before his 7th grade final exam.

Private Tutors Build Confidence and Help Students Grow

Your private tutor will encourage children who have problems and/or a fear of failure; they will explain it’s not about the mark they will get, it’s about the knowledge they have. They need to understand the importance of problem solving and how it affects their way of thinking. Most of the children (and adults!) just think about the solution or the results, while the actual meaning of mathematics is the problem-solving way that shapes the way we think rationally and logically all our lives.

7th Grade Math Tutors7th-grade Math Homework Help

Tutors will always make sure homework is done, and the unit has been completely understood before moving on to the next topic. 7th-grade math has many new things that need additional explanations or examples; some students are too shy to ask the teacher to repeat or explain the problematic part to them, because they are ashamed or they think everybody else except them understands (And to all you students out there, you are NOT the only one who doesn’t get it…). Tutors are always there to answer the student’s question and make sure the unit is clear.

At Home Tutors are There to Support and Give Answers When You Can’t

Another important plus for hiring a tutor is time management. Parents usually don’t have as much time as they would like to sit and help their children with homework or to explain to them what they don’t understand. Tutoring will make sure your child has all the support and help he needs to understand the matter and to score well on the next test. 7th-grade homework help can be challenging even for adults; we forget those formulas and equations, and we can’t help if we don’t know, right?

What are the Areas of 7th-Grade Math?

There’s a ton of topics covered during this academic year.  It’s truly a transition from lower level math.  7th-grade math areas are:

  1. Numbers and operations:  rational/irrational numbers, square roots, proportional reasoning, problems with discounts, tax, rates, work with decimals, integers, and fractions
  1. Geometry and measurement: angles, problems with various geometric shapes/figures, sketching them, analyzing, constructing, measuring them, etc.
  1. Functions and algebra: variables, algebraic expressions, simple formulas and simplification of algebraic equation
  1. Data, statistics and probability: analyzing the data to justify conclusions and make predictions, experiments, range, mode, mean and median, representation of data, various predictions and determinations of events, etc.

Private Math Tutoring Makes Sure Your Child Understands the Subject Matter

Personalized attention for students is imperative because they often get lost in new things they haven’t come across before and when you have so much to deal with, you lose your focus and will to work and study because you are overwhelmed.  Kids are also easily frustrated and discouraged at this age, so struggles in school make for some challenging times for both parents and kids.  Private tutoring offers a chance to get really into the matter and understand the root of the topic. Without understanding the basics, students will get lost until the end of school year. Unfortunately, once a student falls behind in math, catching up the next year becomes more difficult.  So staying on track through each year makes for an easier and better academic year.

7th grade math tutorPre-Test Examples for Reducing Stress and Anxiety

Private tutoring offers a chance to keep up with school and even be ahead of the class. It all depends on the time needed for understanding and time available for practice. Tutors give homework and tests similar to those at school. These pre-test tests are helpful because they psychologically prepare the student for the upcoming exam pressure. Many students do not do as well as they might because of the fear they have, or they are too focused on scoring well than in solving the problem right.

Pre-tests give them the chance to get to know how the test might look and what are the problems they might find on the school test. Setting the students mind in the right “mood” for math problem solving is crucial for success. The way of thinking and logic is what math is trying to help each of us develop.

For the Future

As mentioned, 7th-grade math is the basis for further education, and if this base is solid, the education will be solid, and the student won’t have major academic problems later. Investing in math tutoring is one of the best things you can do for your child. You are giving him or her a chance to become better and to develop a new way of thinking. A student will have time to understand the topics, and the tutor will make sure to ignite the fire of knowledge in your child. People who do their job with love and purpose can have a significant influence on younger people. Tutors are trained professionals who love teaching and sharing their knowledge.

Finding a Great 7th Grade Math Tutor – Online Private Tutors

The Internet gives us many great things, and one of them is online tutoring. It saves you time from commuting.  It’s a great option to explore if in home tutors in the topics you need aren’t available. Tutoring online is great; it allows you to do things at your own pace in the comfort of your home. These days we can get all the knowledge we need in just one click and find a great tutor that has the ability to help us or our kids ace math! Electronic devices are in use in schools all day long. Students are attached to their smartphones, iPads or tablets. Make knowledge easily available and make learning more interesting by introducing an online tutoring platform to them. Use this opportunity and don’t forget – knowledge is power.

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Only pay for the time you need.

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How to Pass the NCLEX Exam with Help From Those Who Know

Finally!  You have made it to the NCLEX Exam, so why are you so glum?  Maybe that’s exactly why you are so down – You now have to register and pass the NCLEX exam after all of this schooling.  And as you know, that’s not the easiest of things to make happen.  But, since you are reading this post, you are starting to take the steps that you need to successfully and smoothly master what’s needed to ace the exam.  Well, we’re going to make it simple and share with you some tips from “those who know”.

What we mean by “those who know” is those who have been there and done it already.  We’re talking former students, teachers and NCLEX tutors that KNOW what you need to know and are willing to share show they made it through to the end.

NCLEX tutorWe’ll cover some NCLEX test study tips in another post soon. So be on the lookout for that one.  Right now let’s focus on the fundamentals.  Just what do you need to know and how does that break out in terms of the overall test.  According to the National Council of State Boards of Nursing, the NCLEX test categories are as follows:

Physiological Integrity

  • Basic Care and Comfort                                                    7-13%
  • Pharmocological & Parenteral Therapies                      5-11%
  • Reduction of Risk Potential                                              12-18%
  • Physiological Adaptation                                                  12-18%

Safe, Effective Care Environment

  • Management of Care                                                        7-13%
  • Safety and Infection Control                                            5-11%

Psychosocial Integrity

  • Psychosocial Adaptation                                                   5-11%
  • Coping & Adaptation                                                         5-11%

Health Promotion & Maintenance

  • Prevention & Early Detection of Disease                     5-11%
  • Growth & Development Through the Life Span         7-13%

If we break out our studying into the above categories and groupings, we can focus appropriate amounts of studying time on each area proportionate to its weight on the exam.  Of course, you need to check and see which of these areas are you strongest in and which is your weakest and add a bit of additional time as needed in the areas that you feel you need to bone up on a bit more.

private nclex tutorsOur goal here was to find tips from those who have gone before that can help you create your own game plan for prepping and then acing this exam (yes, you CAN DO THAT…).

NCLEX Exam Success Story #1 –

  • Some nights I studied with a partner and shared books and review notes.
  • Scheduled exam as soon as I got my eligibility letter and definitely recommend doing that! I didn’t have any listening with headphones questions or click the diagram but did have a ton of select all responses that applied.
  • Best advice – Study with someone at least part of the time and argue out your reasons why. It helps with learning from one another.  Also, approach the “select all” questions with a true or false mindset in helping to choose.

NCLEX Exam Success Story #2 –

  • Dedicated 4-8 hours a day from graduation on for practice, studying and understanding the rational behind the answers to each question.
  • Used NSSBN learning extension as a cheap online course for some review and practice tests.
  • Best advice – Schedule and take the NCLEX as soon as possible after graduation. It keeps the concepts fresh and in your mind.

You Might Also Enjoy: Easy Tips for Acing the NCLEX RN Exam

 

 NCLEX Exam Success Story #3 –

  • I used review books, online questions and various online websites and sources.
  • Like others, I scheduled my exam as soon after graduation as possible and worked under a temporary license until then.
  • Take time when answering the questions. Work through them – you know the information! Don’t beat yourself up if you get something wrong or don’t even get the questions.
  • Best advice – the night before, cut yourself off from reviewing. Do what relaxes and soothes you and get to bed early!

NCLEX Exam Success Story #4 –

  • I had an NCLEX tutor HYPERLINK help me with covering all the material needed for the exam. She made me stay on topic and not lose track of what I needed to get done.  Was definitely worth it for me.
  • I covered over 1000 practice questions during my review days. It just helped with covering everything and feeling comfortable with the material.

 

Florence NightengaleNCLEX Exam Success Story #5 –

  • I did a combination of studying with an NCLEX tutoring option as well as on my own. That made it cost effective plus I was able to get answers and assistance when I needed it.
  • Took my test in August but recommend taking it as soon as you can. Waiting is so hard!  I had over 2 months to prepare but probably needed less.
  • Best advice – Don’t panic if you get a bad score on a practice test! Just keep tracking yourself and your overall progress and results.  That’s the goal.  Don’t study the day before.  Only check over big concepts but don’t do practice questions.  Relax and try to do something that takes your mind off the next day.  Don’t compare yourself or your test to anyone else.
  • Day of Exam Best Advice – Have breakfast! No last minute studying!  You know it and you’re ready.  Have your stuff ready to go the night before and call someone that can cheer you on while on the way there!  Moms are good for that kind of call.  And once it’s over – do something fun…

NCLEX Exam Success Story #6 –

  • I would encourage people to go through a review course or study with a private NCLEX tutor at some points. I scheduled my exam 3-4 weeks after graduation.  I took tests, reviewed every day.  This worked for me and others in passing the exam first time around.

From these and other reviews and comments that we’ve received, we can sum up some of the critical points for success in NCLEX exam tips and studying:

 NCLEX Tutoring and Study Tips:

  1. Schedule your exam as soon as possible after graduation. It’s good for you, your brain and your success with the NCLEX.
  2. A study partner, at least part time, can be helpful in getting new information ideas and sharing that pain.
  3. A review course or private NCLEX tutors can help you stay on track and cover everything you need to cover as successfully as possible.
  4. No matter what you do, YOU have to be self-motivated to be successful!
  5. Preparation time periods seem to run from 4 weeks to 10 weeks depending on person and schedules. Allocate an appropriate amount of time for you and your preparation.
  6. The day before the exam is when you shut the books, put it all away and relax before the exam day.
  7. Once you have finished the exam it’s time to reward yourself! We’ve heard it all – workout, shopping, spa therapy and so much more. What’s going to be your reward for a job well done?

Hopefully these review tips and NCLEX exam preparations from those of us at PrivateTutoringAtHome.com will help you in successfully acing that exam!  Let us know how you do in the comments below.

To Find an NCLEX Tutor to Help You Get the Grades! Check Out These Options:

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Native French Teacher/Tutor – Paris

Madame, Monsieur bonjour,

I am a experienced Sorbonne educated teacher/ tutor with 2 years of experience as a private full-time tutor.

I have tutored ages 12-80. To put it simply, tutoring is my passion in life.

I believe that the most important aspect of learning a language is the ability to speak well.

My lessons focus on : Conversation Practice, Expressions, Pronunciation, Accent reduction, Grammar as well as Reading.

I will give you the tools to become a fluent French speaker. 

During the school year, times fill up quickly. During the summer, times are generally more open.

Since I am gone all day long most days, I often reply to emails either around midnight or in the morning.

Lessons start at $60 per hour.

A bientôt,

André,

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Recognize Signs Your Child May Need a Math Tutor – NJ Tutors

Math Tutor NJ | Private Tutors

It is the dream of every parent to see their children excel in their studies. However, for some kids it can be tougher than for others. As we all know, children have different attention spans, learning abilities and willpower to learn and discover things. There are children who will study and excel on their own. On the other hand, there are also some who need to be pushed or assistance so that they can be where you want them to be.

As many of you know, mathematics is considered to be one of the most difficult subjects to comprehend. This is why it is recommended that you closely monitor how your child is doing in this particular subject. Because with math, more than any other topic, if you start slipping and getting behind, it is very difficult to catch up. Everything builds on previous topics and it can be very hard to get back on track.

With that in mind, here are some signs that will tell you that your child needs a math tutor:

  • Slipping grades

This is most probably the easiest sign to spot. If you wish to figure out the math skills of your child, there is no better way to do it than looking at his report card. If your child has been getting straight C’s, D’s or worse, F, then it is about time that you think about hiring a tutor to guide and help him or her get back on track. For us, we’ve found that in our area, using a New Jersey math tutor has made sure that my son doesn’t slip any further. In fact, his grades are now moving upwards in math.

  • Lack of enthusiasm in math

Oftentimes, children love to discover and learn new things. Since most of the children do not have a negative perception of math, they may get excited in learning how to count money, how to tell the time, how to subtract and much more. In the event that your child is not getting enthusiastic over this subject, that may be a bad signal for you.

  • Increased frustration or anger on the topic

Oftentimes a child’s frustration and anger with the topic is just hiding the fact that they simply don’t understand what’s going on. So lashing out or saying things are “stupid” (how often have you heard that one?) is a cry for assistance and or showing that their learning in math has become derailed. For us a quick search for “math tutor NJ” gave us options that’s helped our 7th grader move from a C grade to an A- at the moment.

These are some of the simple signals that you must take into consideration. In the event that you wish to dig deeper, the best thing that you can do is to talk to your child’s teacher. By doing so, you will be able to understand your child’s behavior when dealing with math. Since you are not able to be with your child inside the classroom, talking with the teacher is the best way to know how he is performing in school.

Finding a Math Tutor in NJ:

In the event that your child is losing interest in math or is having some problems understanding math, a math tutor can surely help. Once you have spotted these very obvious signs, it is best that you figure out what is causing all these issues. That might take some talking to teachers as well as your child to find out more information.  Additionally, it is also time for you to look for a tutor in NJ who can provide your child the guidance he needs.

The best way to find New Jersey tutors is to do your research. You can ask your friends or family for recommendations. It is also helpful if you can check out the reviews of the math tutors in your area. Keep in mind that you should continue monitoring your child’s progress to know if he is improving or not even if you have a tutor. And a good tutor that knows their subject will also be able to let you know how your child is progressing within a couple of sessions.

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You Might Also Enjoy: In 9th Grade Math I Got a “C”, Now What? 

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