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Expert Math Tutor | 20+ Years’ Experience | Calc, Stats, Alg, & More!
Matthew P.

5.0 (49 ratings)

397 hours tutoring

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Hourly Rate: $40
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About Matthew

Bio

Hi, I’m Matt! If math feels overwhelming, I’m here to change that. For over 20 years I’ve helped students at every level — from 2nd graders just starting out, to high schoolers tackling AP Calculus, to college students mastering advanced math and statistics. My goal is simple: make math clear, manageable, and even enjoyable.

I currently teach at the Russian School of Mathematics and have taught at the university level for more than 8 years. I hold a Master’s degree in Mathematics (with 5...

Hi, I’m Matt! If math feels overwhelming, I’m here to change that. For over 20 years I’ve helped students at every level — from 2nd graders just starting out, to high schoolers tackling AP Calculus, to college students mastering advanced math and statistics. My goal is simple: make math clear, manageable, and even enjoyable.

I currently teach at the Russian School of Mathematics and have taught at the university level for more than 8 years. I hold a Master’s degree in Mathematics (with 5 years of PhD research completed, ABD), a Bachelor’s in Pure Math, and an Associate’s in Meteorology. Along the way, I’ve even made original contributions to mathematics in dynamical systems. But what I love most is helping students understand and succeed.

Students describe me as patient, approachable, and great at breaking down tough topics into simple steps. Whether it’s Calculus (my specialty!), Statistics, Algebra, Differential Equations, or Test Prep, I’ll meet you where you are and give you clear explanations, personalized pacing, and organized notes that make studying easier.

📌 My promise: By the end of each session, you’ll feel more confident, less stressed, and one step closer to your goals.

Let’s tackle math together — you won’t regret it!

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Education

Lyndon State College
Mathematics
The University of Rhode Island
Masters
The University of Rhode Island
Graduate Coursework

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Approved Subjects

Algebra 1

Algebra 1

With nearly twenty years of tutoring experience, I have developed a comprehensive mastery of high school algebra and a deep appreciation for its importance as the foundation of all higher-level mathematics. Throughout my teaching career—which includes 8 years instructing various levels of calculus at two universities—I have honed the ability to clearly and patiently explain algebraic concepts ranging from linear equations and inequalities to quadratic functions and polynomial expressions. I understand the challenges students often face when first encountering abstract algebraic reasoning, and I specialize in breaking down complex topics into straightforward, manageable steps that build both competence and confidence. My approach focuses on helping students develop strong problem-solving skills and a solid conceptual framework, preparing them not only to succeed in algebra but also to thrive in future math courses and real-world applications.
Algebra 2

Algebra 2

With nearly twenty years of tutoring experience, I have developed a comprehensive mastery of high school algebra and a deep appreciation for its importance as the foundation of all higher-level mathematics. Throughout my teaching career—which includes 8 years instructing various levels of calculus at two universities—I have honed the ability to clearly and patiently explain algebraic concepts ranging from linear equations and inequalities to quadratic functions and polynomial expressions. I understand the challenges students often face when first encountering abstract algebraic reasoning, and I specialize in breaking down complex topics into straightforward, manageable steps that build both competence and confidence. My approach focuses on helping students develop strong problem-solving skills and a solid conceptual framework, preparing them not only to succeed in algebra but also to thrive in future math courses and real-world applications.
Calculus

Calculus

With nearly 20 years of tutoring experience and 8 years of teaching calculus at the university level, I have developed a strong pedagogical foundation for guiding students through one of the most conceptually rich and foundational areas of mathematics. My approach to teaching calculus emphasizes both mathematical intuition and formal rigor, aiming to help students grasp not only how to perform calculations, but why the underlying concepts matter. I guide learners through the interconnected ideas of limits, derivatives, integrals, and infinite series, always encouraging a deeper understanding of how calculus models change and motion in the natural and applied sciences. I take pride in making complex ideas accessible through clear explanations, visual reasoning, and targeted problem-solving strategies that build confidence and mastery over time. I am especially passionate about the theoretical beauty of calculus and its powerful applications—from physics and engineering to economics and beyond. My instruction is informed by a commitment to fostering mathematical maturity, where students learn to think analytically, make connections across topics, and approach problems with discipline and creativity. Whether teaching multivariable calculus, single-variable calculus, or differential equations, I aim to cultivate a classroom environment that is intellectually challenging, inclusive, and engaging. My long-standing experience and passion for the subject allow me to inspire students at all levels and help them appreciate the elegance and utility of calculus in both academic and real-world contexts.
Differential Equations

Differential Equations

Teaching Differential Equations has been one of the most rewarding and intellectually generative parts of my academic career. With nearly 20 years of tutoring experience and 8-years of university-level instruction in this subject, I’ve consistently found that students are both challenged and energized by its blend of theory, application, and real-world relevance. I approach the course by grounding the material in intuition—emphasizing how differential equations arise naturally from physical systems, biological processes, and economic models—before building toward the analytical and computational techniques needed to solve them. What makes this subject especially meaningful to me is its direct connection to my own research. My discovery in homogeneous dynamical systems was inspired by the conceptual tools and questions posed in Differential Equations—particularly those involving the structure and long-term behavior of solutions. Through this research, I’ve explored how systems evolve over time under symmetry constraints, and I bring that perspective into the classroom to help students see the subject as more than just solving equations—it's about understanding systems, structure, and change. My teaching emphasizes clarity, pattern recognition, and the importance of modeling, and I encourage students to approach problems from multiple angles: analytical, numerical, and qualitative. I aim to cultivate in students the confidence to handle complexity and the curiosity to ask deeper questions about how mathematics describes the world. In Differential Equations, students not only gain powerful tools—they encounter mathematics as a living discipline that can spark insight and discovery.
Discrete Math

Discrete Math

With extensive experience in both tutoring and advanced mathematical research, I bring a deep and rigorous understanding to the subject of discrete mathematics. I regularly prove theorems and engage in high-level problem-solving, which makes me well-equipped to guide students through the logical structure and foundational techniques central to discrete math. My work includes a research discovery in homogeneous dynamical systems that reduces a discrete dynamical system in two variables to an equivalent formulation in one variable—an insight that reflects my ability to translate complex, multivariable behavior into simpler, elegant forms. I also approach discrete structures with the mindset of an algebraist, treating sets, relations, and functions with the same precision and manipulation strategies used in abstract algebra. Whether the focus is on logic, combinatorics, probability, or recurrence relations, I help students build a solid conceptual framework and the confidence to engage with mathematical reasoning at a high level.
Geometry

Geometry

With nearly 20 years of experience tutoring and 8 years of teaching geometry at the university level, I bring both depth of knowledge and clarity of communication to this rich and foundational area of mathematics. My teaching approach emphasizes the interplay between visual intuition and formal reasoning, helping students appreciate geometry not only as a set of spatial tools but as a rigorous, elegant framework for understanding structure, symmetry, and transformation. I guide students through Euclidean and non-Euclidean geometries, coordinate methods, and geometric proof techniques, always encouraging a mindset of curiosity, precision, and logical rigor. I believe that geometry uniquely develops spatial reasoning and abstract thinking—skills that are critical to success across mathematical disciplines and in applied contexts. My passion for geometry extends beyond the classroom into my research, where I have made a novel discovery in the theory of homogeneous dynamical systems—a field deeply connected to geometric structures. This work explores the behavior of flows on homogeneous spaces and reveals underlying geometric symmetries that can be leveraged to better understand dynamical behavior. This discovery has not only informed my teaching by deepening my perspective on the geometric underpinnings of motion and structure, but also reflects my broader commitment to advancing mathematical understanding. Whether introducing students to the fundamentals of geometric reasoning or exploring advanced topics at the intersection of geometry and dynamical systems, I strive to cultivate a rigorous, engaging, and intellectually stimulating learning environment.
Linear Algebra

Linear Algebra

Linear algebra has been central to both my teaching and research for over two decades. Across nearly 20 years of tutoring and 8 years of university-level instruction, I’ve developed a student-centered approach that blends mathematical rigor with real-world application. I introduce students to the subject as both a practical toolkit and a deeply elegant framework—showing how systems of equations, vector spaces, matrix operations, and linear transformations form the backbone of fields ranging from physics and computer science to economics and data analytics. What sets my approach apart is the way I connect linear algebra to broader mathematical ideas and research. My work on homogeneous dynamical systems, for example, has revealed structural insights that depend heavily on algebraic principles, including group actions and invariant subspaces. These research experiences allow me to bring authentic mathematical questions into the classroom, inspiring students to see the subject as dynamic and alive. Whether guiding a first-time learner through Gaussian elimination or discussing the geometric meaning of eigenvectors, I aim to foster both understanding and curiosity. My goal is for students not only to master linear algebra’s techniques but also to see its essential role in shaping how we model and understand the world.
Precalculus

Precalculus

With nearly 20 years of experience tutoring precalculus, I have developed a thorough and intuitive understanding of the subject. Having taught all levels of calculus multiple times over 8 years at two universities, I am deeply familiar with the foundational concepts students need to master before advancing. I know precalculus inside and out, and I am skilled at breaking down complex topics into clear, manageable steps to build student confidence and success.
Probability

Probability

Probability has long been one of the most intellectually exciting areas of mathematics for me—both in my teaching and personal study. Throughout 20 years of tutoring and 8 years of university-level instruction, I’ve developed a deep appreciation for the elegance and utility of probabilistic thinking. I strive to make probability come alive for students by grounding abstract ideas in intuitive, real-world contexts—whether it's modeling uncertainty, analyzing risk, or understanding patterns in random processes. At the heart of my fascination with probability are random variables and the Central Limit Theorem. I find immense beauty in how random variables encapsulate real-world randomness through rigorous structure, and how the Central Limit Theorem reveals order within chaos—showing that, under broad conditions, the sum of many small random influences converges to a predictable form. These concepts not only provide a foundation for statistical inference but also invite students to think deeply about variability, expectation, and long-run behavior. I emphasize both theoretical understanding and practical application. I help students develop strong intuition alongside formal techniques, balancing combinatorics and probability rules with continuous distributions and limit theorems. Through engaging examples and thoughtful explanations, I encourage learners to see probability as a powerful lens for interpreting the world. My goal is not just to teach formulas, but to guide students in building a flexible, confident, and conceptually sound approach to uncertainty—a skillset that is indispensable across disciplines and careers.
SAT Math

SAT Math

With nearly 20 years of tutoring experience, I have developed a deep expertise in SAT Math preparation, helping students build the skills and confidence needed to excel on this critical exam. My background teaching all levels of calculus at two universities for 8 years has given me a strong mathematical foundation that I draw upon to clarify concepts tested on the SAT, from algebra and geometry to data analysis and problem-solving. I am well-versed in the format and strategies specific to the SAT Math section, enabling me to guide students in mastering time management, question interpretation, and efficient problem-solving techniques. By focusing on both content mastery and test-taking skills, I help students improve their scores and reduce test anxiety, positioning them for success in college admissions and beyond.
Statistics

Statistics

I have nearly two decades of experience tutoring statistics and 8 years of teaching it at the university level, during which I have developed a deep commitment to student learning and a passion for the subject itself. My approach to teaching statistics is grounded in clarity, rigor, and accessibility, with a focus on helping students build strong conceptual foundations while also developing the technical skills required to analyze real-world data. I have taught a wide range of topics, from introductory probability theory to advanced statistical inference, and I take particular interest in the mathematical underpinnings of statistics—especially in the study of random variables and the use of calculus to derive and solve probabilistic models. I actively incorporate real data and computational tools into my instruction to enhance relevance and student engagement, while maintaining a strong emphasis on theoretical reasoning. In addition to teaching, I remain intellectually engaged with ongoing developments in the field. My research interests lie at the intersection of high-dimensional statistics and computational efficiency. I have developed a novel method for fitting high-dimensional datasets that significantly reduces computational complexity while preserving predictive performance. This contribution reflects both my deep understanding of statistical theory and my drive to address practical challenges in data analysis. As an educator and researcher, I aim to instill in students a curiosity for statistics, a respect for mathematical rigor, and the confidence to apply statistical thinking across disciplines.
Trigonometry

Trigonometry

With nearly two decades of tutoring experience, I have developed an expert-level mastery of trigonometry and a deep understanding of its fundamental role within mathematics. My extensive background includes teaching all levels of calculus for 8 years at two universities, which has further strengthened my grasp of the foundational concepts students must master in trigonometry to succeed in advanced math courses. I know trigonometric functions, identities, and applications inside and out, and I am highly skilled at explaining these concepts in clear, accessible ways that resonate with diverse learners. Whether helping students navigate unit circles, graph periodic functions, or solve complex trigonometric equations, I focus on building strong conceptual understanding alongside problem-solving skills. My goal is to instill confidence and foster genuine enthusiasm for the subject, ensuring that students are well-prepared for precalculus, calculus, and beyond.

Examples of Expertise

Matthew has provided examples of their subject expertise by answering 1 question submitted by students on Wyzant’s Ask an Expert.

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Ratings and Reviews

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5.0 (49 ratings)
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4 star
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Reviews

Guides and explains

Matthew P has really helped me increase my knowledge and confidence in AP Calculus AB. He is clear when explains a concept to me. He guides me to figure out the problem on my own with patience, rather than doing the problem for me. He is available when I need him, encouraging, and I enjoy working with him. I have my final coming up this week and I am feeling much more confident then I would have without Matthew.

Jackie, 5 lessons with Matthew

Greatest. Math Tutor. Ever

Matthew is such a patient and effective teacher! He is really motivated to discovering each students individual needs and then helping them learn in a way unique to them that truly helps them master the content. He gave me such valuable resources for Differential Equations to help me study and he made learning such an entertaining experience. In addition to being math whiz, he’s also so hilarious and really makes the lesson as enjoyable as he can so the coursework doesn’t feel like torture. I fully recommend his superb math services to anyone looking to learn material, review, or just learn any cool facts about math! ☺️

Zoha, 27 lessons with Matthew

Superb teacher

I was struggling with the complexity of my math course, and Matt just broke down all the concepts into really easy, digestible pieces. I'm already feeling way more confident in my math skills. Thanks Matt!

Nathaniel, 1 lesson with Matthew

Matthew is Fantastic!!!

Matthew stepped in at the last minute to help my daughter prepare for a math test. He was fantastic! She came out feeling so much better prepared for the test and felt like she did very well. We will definitely continue to use him.

Ariana, 1 lesson with Matthew

Very patient, and understanding.

Really appreciate the way he explained step by step. I was able to understand everything. Understood all my old lesson that I had reviewed.

Amina , 1 lesson with Matthew

Great Tutor for Calc II

Matthew was fantastic at supporting me through the process of bringing my Calculus grade from an F to an A. Changed the way I studied and was fantastic throughout the process. I would recommend him to anyone who needs assistance.

Nick, 3 lessons with Matthew

Was very patient and encouraging!

Came very prepared with questions ready to go and worked over with my in class examples and previous exam questions!

Alexander, 2 lessons with Matthew

Was very patient and encouraging!

Took his time to explain every question carefully and did not mind repeating or explaining in different ways to fit my needs!

Alexander, 2 lessons with Matthew

Great teacher, patient & knows his Math !!

Matthew tutored me for my statistic course ! He was very patient and know his stuff! I was drowning in this course but he saved me lol !

Denise, 1 lesson with Matthew

Amazing Tutor!

Matt is a great tutor! He was able to break down and explain concept topics from my college Linear Algebra class in a way that was easy to follow and checked to make sure I was with him at every step. He also prepares notes and material beforehand, which I really appreciate. Highly recommend Matt! 10/10

Rebecca, 1 lesson with Matthew
Hourly Rate: $40
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