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Standardized Test & Writing Expert
Michael K.

4.9 (118 ratings)

407 hours tutoring

Your first lesson is backed by our Good Fit Guarantee
Hourly Rate: $40
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Response time: 1 hour

About Michael

Bio

To list the exact specifics of my accomplishments, I will demonstrate why I might be the perfect tutor for you! Before entering college, I graduated from high school with a 3.7 GPA, and AP scores of 4 for the Literature, Calculus and Biology exams. I graduated next from the University of Florida with a 3.5 GPA for a Bachelor’s in English literature, and then Florida Atlantic University with a Master’s in Education (Curriculum & Instruction) at a 3.6 GPA. Throughout this course, I obtained a...

To list the exact specifics of my accomplishments, I will demonstrate why I might be the perfect tutor for you! Before entering college, I graduated from high school with a 3.7 GPA, and AP scores of 4 for the Literature, Calculus and Biology exams. I graduated next from the University of Florida with a 3.5 GPA for a Bachelor’s in English literature, and then Florida Atlantic University with a Master’s in Education (Curriculum & Instruction) at a 3.6 GPA. Throughout this course, I obtained a composite 1310 on my SAT and scored in the 90th percentile for GRE Verbal.

Regarding my four years as an AP Literature teacher for juniors, 75% of my students scored a 3 or higher, with about 20% achieving a 5. From there, to teach English in Asia for nearly a decade, I received my 120 hour TEFL certification from Love TEFL—one of the most prestigious accreditations in the UK for teaching English to non-native speakers. It has thus far been a varied and fruitful teaching career, with total teaching and tutoring spanning well over a decade. My students have ranged from children to adults, but primarily high school and university students, comprising expertise in verbal components, mastery of writing (emphasizing structure, cohesion, organization, proof and style), and extensive experience and success with standardized test prep, such as SAT, ACT, GRE, SSAT, SHSAT, FTCE. Let’s chat soon and I’ve no doubt that I’ll be able to help you reach your goals and achieve your dreams!

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Education

University of Florida
English literature
Florida Atlantic University
MEd

Policies

  • Hourly Rate: $40
  • Rate details: My rate remains the same for all courses: beginner or advanced, general studies or test preparation.
  • Lesson cancellation: 24 hours notice required

  • Background check passed on 10/30/2023

  • Your first lesson is backed by our Good Fit Guarantee

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Approved Subjects

Accuplacer

Accuplacer

As an experienced tutor, I specialize in preparing students for the Accuplacer exam, a critical step for those aiming to enter prestigious academic environments. My comprehensive understanding of the exam structure enables me to guide students through its unique challenges, such as sentence construction that demands an astute knowledge of grammar, fluidity, active voice, and punctuation. I excel in demystifying the complexities of the analogies section, where critical thinking is key to discerning intricate word connections. The reading component of the Accuplacer, focusing on the distillation of main ideas, aligns perfectly with my expertise in verbal reasoning and standardized test preparation. In addition, I adeptly support students through the writing segment, ensuring they can express their thoughts clearly and effectively. The math section's emphasis on word problems and logical reasoning is an area where my patience and clear explanatory skills come to the fore, allowing students to grasp and apply mathematical concepts with confidence. My extensive background in standardized testing is not just a professional credential, but a foundation that enhances my ability to tailor my teaching approach to each student's individual needs, ensuring their success on the Accuplacer.
ACT English

ACT English

I'm your go-to tutor for the ACT Reading and Writing sections. Having been in the trenches with both the ACT and SAT, I totally get the differences between the two. So, if you're looking to tackle the ACT, I've got your back. I've got a great track record of success stories. When it comes to the ACT, it's not a one-size-fits-all situation. Each section needs its own strategy and approach, and that's where I come in. I tailor my teaching to fit each part of the test, making sure you're equipped with the right tools and know-how for every question type. Trust me, we'll make sure you're prepped and ready to ace those sections!
Common Core

Common Core

Being an accomplished tutor for K-12 general studies, I possess a comprehensive mastery of all subjects, including math and ELA. My advanced degree in education stands as a testament to my commitment and expertise in the field. However, what truly sets me apart is my exceptional patience and understanding when working with young children. By employing scaffolding techniques, I tailor my teaching methods to each student's unique needs, ensuring they grasp concepts in a manner that's intuitive to them. I deeply recognize the crucial nature of skill development during these formative years and am dedicated to laying a strong foundation for every learner. With an extensive track record of success specifically with this age group, parents can be assured of my capability to guide their children towards academic excellence.
Elementary Math

Elementary Math

Being an accomplished tutor for elementary and middle school students, I possess a comprehensive mastery of all subjects, including math and ELA. My advanced degree in education stands as a testament to my commitment and expertise in the field. However, what truly sets me apart is my exceptional patience and understanding when working with young children. By employing scaffolding techniques, I tailor my teaching methods to each student's unique needs, ensuring they grasp concepts in a manner that's intuitive to them. I deeply recognize the crucial nature of skill development during these formative years and am dedicated to laying a strong foundation for every learner. With an extensive track record of success specifically with this age group, parents can be assured of my capability to guide their children towards academic excellence.
English

English

With a degree in literature under my belt, I bring to the table not just theoretical knowledge, but also practical expertise as a professional freelance writer. My background in producing creative writing allows me to infuse lessons with creativity and innovation, ensuring students not only understand the core principles but also enjoy the art of writing. This unique blend of education and real-world experience has enabled me to provide insights that are both profound and applicable. Over the years, I've had the privilege of assisting countless students, spanning various ages and proficiency levels, in honing their writing skills. My acute grasp on grammar, fluidity, and organization equips me to diagnose and address any writing challenges. Most importantly, I excel at guiding students in cohesively organizing their ideas, ensuring their narratives are both compelling and coherent. This holistic approach has consistently proven effective, making me an ideal tutor for anyone seeking to elevate their writing abilities.
GED

GED

Having dedicated many years to teaching standardized testing, I possess a deep-seated understanding of the intricacies associated with the SAT, ACT, GRE and AP Literature and Language exams. My profound knowledge isn't merely theoretical, but is complemented by practical strategies, encompassing various tips, tricks, and techniques to tackle these challenging tests. Personally scoring highly on each of these exams is a testament to my grasp of the content and the effective methodologies that accompany them. The blend of my literature and education degrees further solidifies my expertise, particularly in the realm of advanced verbal subjects. One of my greatest strengths lies in my ability to elucidate complex concepts in a comprehensible manner, ensuring that students not only remember but truly understand the material. My track record boasts extensive success in subjects like reading comprehension, writing, and grammar. Given my background and proven abilities, students can feel confident in my guidance as they navigate the intricacies of these significant exams.
Grammar

Grammar

With a degree in literature under my belt, I bring to the table not just theoretical knowledge, but also practical expertise as a professional freelance writer. My background in producing creative writing allows me to infuse lessons with creativity and innovation, ensuring students not only understand the core principles but also enjoy the art of writing. This unique blend of education and real-world experience has enabled me to provide insights that are both profound and applicable. Over the years, I've had the privilege of assisting countless students, spanning various ages and proficiency levels, in honing their writing skills. My acute grasp on grammar, fluidity, and organization equips me to diagnose and address any writing challenges. Most importantly, I excel at guiding students in cohesively organizing their ideas, ensuring their narratives are both compelling and coherent. This holistic approach has consistently proven effective, making me an ideal tutor for anyone seeking to elevate their writing abilities.
GRE

GRE

Having dedicated many years to teaching standardized testing, I possess a deep-seated understanding of the intricacies associated with the SAT, ACT, GRE and AP Literature and Language exams. My profound knowledge isn't merely theoretical, but is complemented by practical strategies, encompassing various tips, tricks, and techniques to tackle these challenging tests. Personally scoring highly on each of these exams is a testament to my grasp of the content and the effective methodologies that accompany them. The blend of my literature and education degrees further solidifies my expertise, particularly in the realm of advanced verbal subjects. One of my greatest strengths lies in my ability to elucidate complex concepts in a comprehensible manner, ensuring that students not only remember but truly understand the material. My track record boasts extensive success in subjects like reading comprehension, writing, and grammar. Given my background and proven abilities, students can feel confident in my guidance as they navigate the intricacies of these significant exams.
IELTS

IELTS

With a wealth of experience spanning 7 years teaching English in both China and Vietnam, I've cultivated a profound expertise in imparting English as a second language to diverse age groups, ranging from children to adults. This extensive on-ground experience has been fortified with professional credentials, as I'm both TEFL and ESOL certified. I firmly believe in a holistic approach to language education, addressing the four cardinal components: reading, writing, speaking, and listening. Moreover, my lessons often emphasize foundational conversational skills, enriching vocabulary, and fostering fluidity in speech and comprehension. My inherent patience, especially with English-learners, enables me to connect with and understand each student's unique learning journey. Tailoring lessons to match a client's specific goals and capabilities, I ensure that every concept is elucidated in a clear, practical manner. My backgrounds in literature and education not only amplify my proficiency in teaching the language but also provide a nuanced perspective that caters to English-learners of all levels and ages. With my comprehensive approach and dedication, learners are positioned to achieve both proficiency and confidence in their English communication skills.
Literature

Literature

Are you looking to explore the depths of classic literature and transform your insights into compelling essays? As an avid reader with a passion for the works of Tolstoy and Dumas, I can guide you through the complex themes and narratives of the literary greats to write great papers. From the survival instincts in "The Island of the Blue Dolphins" to the thrilling pages of "Goosebumps," I have journeyed through stories that shape our understanding of the world. As a published author, I bring a writer's eye to literature, helping you not only to analyze but also to articulate your thoughts with clarity and persuasion. Join me, and let's unlock the power of words together.
Proofreading

Proofreading

As a freelance writer whose career is intricately tied to the mastery of grammar, I understand its complexities and nuances. Think of grammar as an intricate puzzle, where each piece must fall perfectly into place to reveal a clear picture. If you're grappling with a labyrinthine paper or simply require a meticulous eye for your succinct article, I'm here to assist. Embracing the fundamentals of grammar early is crucial, and my extensive practice stems from refining these skills through standardized tests like the SAT and the FTCE. My mission? To forge skilled writers who can articulate their thoughts with precision and ensure their message is received exactly as intended. Let's collaborate to hone your writing, enhance clarity, and elevate your work to its highest standard. Whether it's a dissertation, an article, or a personal statement, your writing will be a beacon of grammatical excellence.
SAT Reading

SAT Reading

Having dedicated many years to teaching standardized testing, I possess a deep-seated understanding of the intricacies associated with the SAT, ACT, GRE and AP Literature and Language exams. My profound knowledge isn't merely theoretical, but is complemented by practical strategies, encompassing various tips, tricks, and techniques to tackle these challenging tests. Personally scoring highly on each of these exams is a testament to my grasp of the content and the effective methodologies that accompany them. The blend of my literature and education degrees further solidifies my expertise, particularly in the realm of advanced verbal subjects. One of my greatest strengths lies in my ability to elucidate complex concepts in a comprehensible manner, ensuring that students not only remember but truly understand the material. My track record boasts extensive success in subjects like reading comprehension, writing, and grammar. Given my background and proven abilities, students can feel confident in my guidance as they navigate the intricacies of these significant exams.
SAT Writing

SAT Writing

Having dedicated many years to teaching standardized testing, I possess a deep-seated understanding of the intricacies associated with the SAT, ACT, GRE and AP Literature and Language exams. My profound knowledge isn't merely theoretical, but is complemented by practical strategies, encompassing various tips, tricks, and techniques to tackle these challenging tests. Personally scoring highly on each of these exams is a testament to my grasp of the content and the effective methodologies that accompany them. The blend of my literature and education degrees further solidifies my expertise, particularly in the realm of advanced verbal subjects. One of my greatest strengths lies in my ability to elucidate complex concepts in a comprehensible manner, ensuring that students not only remember but truly understand the material. My track record boasts extensive success in subjects like reading comprehension, writing, and grammar. Given my background and proven abilities, students can feel confident in my guidance as they navigate the intricacies of these significant exams.
SSAT

SSAT

Having dedicated many years to teaching standardized testing, I possess a deep-seated understanding of the intricacies associated with the SAT, ACT, and AP Literature and Language exams. My profound knowledge isn't merely theoretical, but is complemented by practical strategies, encompassing various tips, tricks, and techniques to tackle these challenging tests. Personally scoring highly on each of these exams is a testament to my grasp of the content and the effective methodologies that accompany them. The blend of my literature and education degrees further solidifies my expertise, particularly in the realm of advanced verbal subjects. One of my greatest strengths lies in my ability to elucidate complex concepts in a comprehensible manner, ensuring that students not only remember but truly understand the material. My track record boasts extensive success in subjects like reading comprehension, writing, and grammar. Given my background and proven abilities, students can feel confident in my guidance as they navigate the intricacies of these significant exams.
TOEFL

TOEFL

As a seasoned tutor for the TOEFL exam, my teaching philosophy is rooted in an intimate understanding of the test's importance, particularly in regions like China where its impact is significant. My approach is informed by years of experience teaching English as a second language, where I have developed a robust skill set that's perfectly attuned to the demands of the TOEFL. This test is more than familiar territory for me—it's an arena where my teaching strategies have been tested and proven. My track record includes not only teaching English in the dynamic educational landscapes of China and Vietnam but also guiding countless students through the complexities of standardized testing. The expertise I've garnered from years of SAT, ACT, and AP English preparation imbues me with the ability to convey TOEFL concepts with clarity and precision. I excel at providing learners with the tools to navigate the intricacies of the TOEFL, ensuring they are equipped with both the skills and confidence needed to excel in English-speaking academic and professional environments.
Vocabulary

Vocabulary

With a degree in literature under my belt, I bring to the table not just theoretical knowledge, but also practical expertise as a professional freelance writer. My background in producing creative writing allows me to infuse lessons with creativity and innovation, ensuring students not only understand the core principles but also enjoy the art of writing. This unique blend of education and real-world experience has enabled me to provide insights that are both profound and applicable. Over the years, I've had the privilege of assisting countless students, spanning various ages and proficiency levels, in honing their writing skills. My acute grasp on grammar, fluidity, and organization equips me to diagnose and address any writing challenges. Most importantly, I excel at guiding students in cohesively organizing their ideas, ensuring their narratives are both compelling and coherent. This holistic approach has consistently proven effective, making me an ideal tutor for anyone seeking to elevate their writing abilities.
Writing

Writing

With a rich background in both fiction and non-fiction writing, coupled with my professional experience as a freelance writer and former AP Literature teacher, I bring a wealth of expertise to the field of writing instruction. My focus on crafting compelling thesis statements, seamless transitions, and tone-setting diction equips students with the skills necessary to elevate their writing. I excel at quickly identifying and making impactful adjustments to any piece of writing. This combination of practical experience and a keen eye for detail makes me an excellent mentor for anyone looking to enhance their writing abilities.

Examples of Expertise

Michael has provided examples of their subject expertise by answering 4 questions submitted by students on Wyzant’s Ask an Expert.

See all of Michael ’s answers ›
Michael K.'s Photo

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Ratings and Reviews

Rating

4.9 (118 ratings)
5 star
(114)
4 star
(2)
3 star
(1)
2 star
(0)
1 star
(1)

Reviews

Knowledgeable and Organized

Michael taught me quite a few strategies to help me with the reading and writing section of the SAT. It was especially helpful since I had spent sometime self-studying and running into problems, but Michael easily explained them in a way that was easy to understand and apply. I like how he had practice catered to what I wanted to work on and I was able to complete it outside of class and go over my incorrect answers. If you are looking to improve your reading and writing SAT scores, from any score, definitely consider Michael!

Anya, 4 lessons with Michael

Excellent Last-Minute Tutor for Accuplacer—Highly Recommend!

I was grateful when Michael accepted my child's tutorial request on short notice. He came prepared with quality material that was different from what other tutors had used, which provided fresh perspective and variety. Most importantly, they took the time to ensure my child truly understood the Accuplacer reading and writing passages -- not just memorizing answers, but grasping the wording and meaning. Their patient approach made a real difference. I highly recommend this tutor for anyone preparing for standardized tests. Thank you!

Carmen, 1 lesson with Michael

GRE Verbal Reasoning Tutoring

I enjoyed having a back-and-forth dialogue with Michael K during our session. What really helped me was when he started to point out ways I can remember the meanings of words. Also he shared some techniques of how he would address questions. Overall, very helpful session, and I look forward to our next lesson.

Erica, 1 lesson with Michael

Experienced and Patient

I have taken a few lessons with Michael thus far and plan on taking many more. Michael is an expert in reading comprehension and has a unique way of simplifying passages and questions; essentially he humanizes passages and questions that makes them very easy to understand. But most important he is quite patient.

Shayaan, 5 lessons with Michael

Incredibly Eye-Opening and Helpful

Mr. K has a unique and effective teaching style. He shares the material upfront and lets you work through it at your own pace, stepping in right when you need support. It feels tailored to you rather than rushed. He also does a great job breaking down the test so you don’t overlook small but important details. I’m genuinely happy to be working with him.

Vivek, 6 lessons with Michael

Focused, Results-Driven Tutor with Great Materials

We’ve had a wonderful experience with Michael. He is very accommodating and gets straight to the point, making each session highly effective. He also has excellent resources that reinforce the concepts and make practice more targeted. He quickly identified areas where my son needed support and has significantly improved his reading comprehension and writing skills. We’ve seen real progress and increased confidence. I would highly recommend him to anyone preparing for any exam.

Tina, 15 lessons with Michael

Engaging and motivating tutor.

I liked Mr. Michael's energy during our lessons, being extremely fun and informational to talk to. He teaches and explains in a very efficient yet interesting way, which makes it easy to understand and absorb the information at hand. Overall just a good tutor who can make sure you get the topic and can apply it on your own. I highly recommend.

Alevtina , 9 lessons with Michael

Patient and Knowledgeable

My daughter has grown so much in Reading and Verbal thanks to Michael. She not only improved her SSAT practice scores but also gained confidence. Highly recommend!

Kapris, 9 lessons with Michael

World class Tutor

As a parent of a student prepping for SAT. Finding a top notch tutor that is reasonably priced is a rare feat indeed. So finding Michael who has shown incredible patience, deep expertise coupled with solid experiences tutoring SAT students was like finding the proverbial needle in a haystack. Mike have developed all the tricks of the trade and have had a lifetime impact on my son’s growth and development. I would gladly recommend Michael to anyone in need.

Ian, 10 lessons with Michael

Patient and Understandng Tutor

I'm a complete beginner trying to take the GRE. Michael has been amazing! He has a load of different tricks and problems. He's more than happy to provide abundant resources as well. His explanations are very helpful. I have full faith in his capabilities.

Make, 20 lessons with Michael
Hourly Rate: $40
Response time: 1 hour
Contact Michael