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Yale PhD Candidate | Science-backed SAT Tutoring | +310 Median Score
Nathaniel B.

5.0 (15 ratings)

28 hours tutoring

Your first lesson is backed by our Good Fit Guarantee
Hourly Rate: $50
Contact Nathaniel
Response time: 12 minutes

About Nathaniel

Bio

Hi, I'm Nathaniel — a PhD candidate at Yale in cognitive science, where I study how people learn and reason.

I've spent over ten years tutoring the SAT, having delivered around 1,150 sessions across both sections. My approach is based on learning science that is shockingly absent from mainstream test prep solutions. I diagnose each student's specific weaknesses across 300+ sub-skills, using a proprietary learning algorithm to organize practice around the areas most likely to dramatically...

Hi, I'm Nathaniel — a PhD candidate at Yale in cognitive science, where I study how people learn and reason.

I've spent over ten years tutoring the SAT, having delivered around 1,150 sessions across both sections. My approach is based on learning science that is shockingly absent from mainstream test prep solutions. I diagnose each student's specific weaknesses across 300+ sub-skills, using a proprietary learning algorithm to organize practice around the areas most likely to dramatically improve scores. My custom-built software also interweaves old material at scientifically optimal intervals to minimize forgetfulness. Booking with me comes with access to these tools, along with over 6,000 practice problems I wrote myself.

Last round of exams, my students showed a median score increase of +310 points, and past students have gone on to Yale, MIT, Brown, Penn, UCLA, Vanderbilt, and many other excellent universities.
Most of all, I keep it painless and clear. Students leave every session knowing exactly what to work on and why. Test prep should not involve guesswork!

I only work with a few students at a time, so the easiest way to figure out if we're a good fit is a quick (free) phone call. Message me here and I'll be eager to see if I can help!

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Education

Yale University
PhD
  • Licensed teacher

Policies

  • Hourly Rate: $50
  • Rate details: If a student doesn't log on right away, I will continue to be available for the whole lesson time, but I will charge for the full duration of the session.
  • Lesson cancellation: 1 hours notice required

  • Background check passed on 7/31/2025

  • Your first lesson is backed by our Good Fit Guarantee

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Approved Subjects

Algebra 1

Algebra 1

Algebra 1 is the first real turning point in math—and I've helped dozens of students build fluency from the ground up. I focus on translating between the "math language" and everyday reasoning, so nothing feels abstract for long. We'll build comfort with variables, equations, and word problems through real repetition and clarity.
Algebra 2

Algebra 2

In my experience, this is where I've noticed students start to feel overwhelmed by functions, quadratics, and exponent rules—and where the right academic support makes all the difference. I show students how to make sense of the newfound mathematical complexity, spot continuities with prior math, and avoid the most common traps that derail progress.
Calculus

Calculus

I've worked with countless high school and college students on both AB and BC levels. I guide students through tough concepts like limits, related rates, the Fundamental Theorem, series of constants, etc. without turning it into rote procedure. I take a highly visual approach and tend to focus on the missing mathematical intuition—why something works, how it affects the things we can do, and how to best remember and master each concept.
Elementary Math

Elementary Math

I've worked with dozens of elementary students, including those with learning differences, and I love this age group. I turn math into something fun—games, challenges, quick wins—while still making sure we're hitting every standard and skill. I'm familiar with Common Core, and I know how to build confidence while quietly filling gaps and pushing students ahead at the same time. Sessions are upbeat, productive, and never boring.
Geometry

Geometry

I've helped students through Geometry in school and on the SAT/ACT, and I know the parts that usually trip them up—proofs, parallel lines, circles, volume, you name it. I focus on building visual intuition and pattern recognition so students stop guessing and start actually understanding how things fit together. For students who find Geometry confusing, I break it down step-by-step. For students who are already strong, I help them move faster and think more strategically.
Government & Politics

Government & Politics

Before starting my PhD, I had spent four years as a legislative staffer—reading bills, writing memos, and helping make policy happen. That background gives me a practical lens on government and politics, which I now bring to tutoring. I help students not just learn the systems and structures they need to ace exams and essays, but also understand how they interact, how power moves, and how arguments are made. I can coach students on how to write clearly and thoughtfully about political topics, whether for AP Gov, college essays, or debate prep.
Grammar

Grammar

As an experienced writer myself, I believe that writing is the quintessential skill for any student. I'm a published poet and an avid liberal arts proponent, so I identify with a strong passion for words, sentences, and writing. I've been tutoring writing in various capacities for over 3 years. Depending on the age of the student, my approach to teaching grammar is to utilize exercises in writing and reading; I strongly believe that memorization of grammar is not as useful as the immediate application of it. These types of exercises also prove invaluable for a student if they come back around to take the SAT or ACT, or if they are pursuing advanced degrees that will involve professional writing. Feel free to reach out if you have questions!
Literature

Literature

I help students read with more purpose and write with more clarity. Whether it's Shakespeare, Morrison, or a contemporary novel, I focus on close reading, argument structure, and making sure students know what they're actually saying in their writing. I've worked with AP Lit students, reluctant readers, and strong writers looking to push deeper. My sessions can be focused on text analysis, productive writing workshops, editing on essays, or just helping students feel like their ideas are worth articulating.
Philosophy

Philosophy

Philosophy is a big part of my graduate work, and I studied it deeply as an undergrad as well. I've helped students work through everything from Plato to Parfit—whether they're trying to understand the material, write a paper, or clarify their own views. I focus on helping students think more precisely, argue clearly, and stay grounded in abstract texts. My goal is always to make philosophy feel challenging in the best way possible!
Political Science

Political Science

Before starting my PhD, I had spent four years as a legislative staffer—reading bills, writing memos, and helping make policy happen. That background gives me a practical lens on government and politics, which I now bring to tutoring. I help students not just learn the systems and structures they need to ace exams and essays, but also understand how they interact, how power moves, and how arguments are made. I can coach students on how to write clearly and thoughtfully about political topics, whether for AP Gov, college essays, or debate prep.
Prealgebra

Prealgebra

I have been tutoring math in various settings for over 2 years. I enjoy spending sessions balancing concept with technicality; for some students that means more time spent on broad principles, and for others, on practice and retrieval. Both together make an incredible foundation for math, including PreAlgebra.
Precalculus

Precalculus

I've worked with students at all levels of precalc—those brushing up on algebra foundations and those preparing for high-level Calculus. I focus on fluency with functions, comfort with trig, and a clear grasp of the structures behind rational expressions, conics, and exponential models. My sessions are flexible and efficient, so students can leave with stronger instincts, better confidence, and sharper problem-solving skills.
Psychology

Psychology

As a PhD student in psychology at Yale, I spend most of my time thinking about how the mind works—so it's a joy to help high school, college, and graduate students engage with it too. I've worked with many AP Psych students over the years and helped them earn 5s by making the material feel logical, structured, and surprisingly fun to learn. We focus on understanding concepts deeply (not just memorizing vocab), and building confidence with the application-style questions that make this class so unique. In college and beyond, I can help with research assignments, literature reviews, or any other academic demand that seeks to understand human psychology!
Public Speaking

Public Speaking

I have been coaching public speaking and debate for close to 4 years in both public and private settings. As an ex-high school debater and a current participant in college model UN and college debate, I have been highly trained to adapt my speaking style to whatever circumstance I find myself in. Consequently, I am able to work with students in arriving at their public speaking goals, according to what setting they may be needed. I can do anything from helping you with a presentation to training you for a nationals debate conference!
SAT Math

SAT Math

I've taught over 1000 SAT Math sessions and helped most students raise their scores by 150–300 points. We work on clarity, pattern recognition, and pacing—always with a plan. Whether your student is aiming for 1500+ or trying to break past a plateau, we'll figure out what's holding them back and fix it.
SAT Reading

SAT Reading

I've taught over 1000 SAT Math sessions and helped students raise their scores by 150–300 points. We work on clarity, pattern recognition, and pacing—always with a plan. Whether your student is aiming for 1500+ or trying to break past a plateau, we'll figure out what's holding them back and fix it.
Social Studies

Social Studies

Hi! I can help students make sense of the systems, stories, and structures behind history, government, and culture. I support students with document analysis, essay writing, and test prep, and I work hard to make sure they leave sessions not just knowing more, but thinking more clearly. Whether it's U.S. history, current events, or global systems, I help students build the skills to engage, explain, and retain the information that they need to succeed academically and beyond.
Vocabulary

Vocabulary

As an experienced writer myself, I believe that writing is the quintessential skill for any student. I'm a published poet and an avid liberal arts proponent, so I identify with a strong passion for words, sentences, and writing. I've been tutoring writing in various capacities for over 3 years. Depending on the age of the student, my approach to teaching vocabulary is to utilize exercises in writing and reading; I strongly believe that memorization of vocabulary is not as useful as the immediate application of it. For younger students, I emphasize the specificity of each word, which is a critical component in becoming a well-rounded writer.
ACT English
PSAT
Reading

Examples of Expertise

Nathaniel has provided examples of their subject expertise by answering 7 questions submitted by students on Wyzant’s Ask an Expert.

See all of Nathaniel ’s answers ›
Nathaniel B.'s Photo

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Ratings and Reviews

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5.0 (15 ratings)
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Reviews

Best SAT Resource By Far

In just one lesson, I walked away knowing more about the exam than I did after studying for weeks on my own. He was patient and incredibly knowledgeable about the test, helping me pick out weak spots for future studying. The exam feels much more doable after meeting with him! Will definitely be booking with him again!

Sofia, 3 lessons with Nathaniel

Best tutor

He helped me making a clear and concise argument throughout my research paper. He also was a huge help with citations. In addition, he helped me learn how to cite sources properly.

Wyatt, 2 lessons with Nathaniel

Thorough

He covers topics in great detail. His review is very thorough, and he breaks down the concepts so they are understandable. He gives examples of the topics and makes sure the student understands, before moving on.

Sandra, 1 lesson with Nathaniel
Hourly Rate: $50
Response time: 12 minutes
Contact Nathaniel