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David M.'s Photo
David M.'s Photo
David M.'s Photo
David M.'s Photo

David M.

Experienced, Effective Math Tutor for Standardized Tests / Coursework.

Experienced, Effective Math Tutor for Standardized Tests / Coursework.

$80/hour

4.8 (62 ratings)

  • 356 hours tutoring

About David

Bio

I have been a STEM teacher / tutor for 20+ years, working in Austin, Hong Kong, Costa Rica, NYC, and Aspen. I have a Master's in Education from Texas State, and I got certified to teach Mathematics and Social Studies Grades 8-12 in Texas. As an undergrad, I majored in Anthropology at Cornell University and got the opportunity to study abroad in Nepal. I recently earned a Professional Certificate in Data Analysis & Visualization from UT Austin.

I have ample experience with a variety of...

I have been a STEM teacher / tutor for 20+ years, working in Austin, Hong Kong, Costa Rica, NYC, and Aspen. I have a Master's in Education from Texas State, and I got certified to teach Mathematics and Social Studies Grades 8-12 in Texas. As an undergrad, I majored in Anthropology at Cornell University and got the opportunity to study abroad in Nepal. I recently earned a Professional Certificate in Data Analysis & Visualization from UT Austin.

I have ample experience with a variety of standardized tests and will help you boost your score. In the words of a recent tutee: "David was a great tutor! Professional, on-time and extremely knowledgeable in math. He is a natural teacher and has a great way of breaking down concepts. He helped me raise my score on the GRE."

I have helped students skip entire years of math (e.g. Algebra I) with intensive summer tutoring, I have dug homeschooling parents out of holes at critical points, and I have worked with children over multiple years, providing steady ongoing support.

I strive to provide clear explanations of foundational skills as well as a sense of how it is applied. In a constructivist fashion, my students are guided to figure it out without me just revealing the answer. Ideally there is a balance between dismantling people's misconceptions and bad habits while building their self-esteem and problem solving ability. I am happy to communicate with your child's teacher to focus our lessons, and I can incorporate study skills techniques and organizational strategies.

In a New York Times article (9/13/09), Harvard Education Professor Dede explains: “One-to-one tutoring is the learning method proven time and again to sharply improve a student’s measured performance. A good human tutor can deliver a “home run,” educationally and statistically.”

I'm that tutor - try me.
I enjoy working with adults and children, I find this type of educational interaction extremely rewarding, and I will set you up to succeed!

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Education

Cornell University
Anthropology
Texas State University
MEd
UT Austin - McCombs School of Business
Other

Policies

Schedule

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Mon

Tue

Wed

Thu

Fri

Sat

Subjects

Business

GRE,

GRE

I have been working with Manhattan Elite Prep for the past couple years, serving as their point person in Austin for GRE tutoring. This organization has sent me a number of clients and a solid set of resources to strengthen my expertise in this area. Additionally, you can see a couple reviews from past GRE students on my profile.
Microsoft Excel, Microsoft PowerPoint, Microsoft Word

Computer

General Computer, Microsoft Excel, Microsoft PowerPoint, Microsoft Word, SQL

Corporate Training

ESL/ESOL, General Computer, Grammar, Microsoft Excel, Microsoft PowerPoint, Microsoft Word, Proofreading, SQL, Statistics

Elementary Education

Study Skills,

Study Skills

In my 9 years of teaching middle and upper school math and social studies, I always emphasized organization and study skills to help my students succeed. There are numerous strategies and techniques to utilize, that can be tailored to each student, depending on the subject, the age, and the individual's needs. Please feel free to contact me with any specific questions about study skills and how we can improve in this area.
Elementary Math, Grammar, Reading, Vocabulary

English

TOEFL,

TOEFL

I recently tutored a student from Mexico City for the TOEFL exam. We worked through all of the sections of the test, using the ETS practice book. In addition to speaking English fluently, my experiences tutoring students for the English side of the SAT and GRE tests enabled me to provide many insights and strategies for success on this exam. He improved his score from the first time he took it.
ACT English, ACT Reading, English, ESL/ESOL, Grammar, Proofreading, Reading, SAT Reading, SAT Writing, Vocabulary, Writing

History

Social Studies,

Social Studies

I got certified by the State of Texas to teach Social Studies & Mathematics Grades 8-12, and I have a Masters degree in History with a minor in Education from Texas State University. I also have an undergraduate degree in Anthropology from Cornell University. As a teacher, I taught a senior History elective on World Religions. Geography is my favorite subject!
Geography

Homeschool

Algebra 1,

Algebra 1

For most students, Algebra 1 is the first year of high school mathematics, and it is a significant step up from the arithmetic and pre-algebra content taught in middle school. Math is one of the universal languages, and Algebra is a specific language under that larger umbrella. Hence students need to learn how to translate from English to Algebra. Algebra is also an abstract way of thinking that initially can be challenging to grasp, but when mastered, it is extremely powerful for problem solving and reasoning. I have taught Algebra 1 dozens of times, to hundreds of students, with various texts and resources.
Algebra 2,

Algebra 2

Algebra II builds on the foundation of Algebra I, expanding a student's understanding of various functions including linear, absolute value, quadratic, and exponential relationships. Systems are reviewed and then extended to 3 variables, matrices are covered, and logarithms are introduced as an inverse of exponents. Radical functions are also explored and then extended to consider cube roots and beyond. Other topics include Conic Sections, Probability/Statistics, and Sequences & Series. Most courses will finish with a brief study of Trigonometry. I have taught this course and tutored numerous students in it over the years. Hence, I have ample experience and ability to break down the concepts, explain the relationships, and highlight the beauty of Algebra.
Geometry,

Geometry

Geometry is a beautiful study of shapes and spatial reasoning. The word "geometry" translates to earth-measuring, and we do this in various ways in this course. Learning inductive and deductive reasoning is a great mental workout, and the portion of the course that focuses on proofs is a wonderful exercise in logic. I have taught this course many times, to hundreds of students, with various textbooks and approaches. It is my favorite math subject!
Prealgebra,

Prealgebra

A solid Pre-Algebra foundation is crucial for success with high school math and science. This involves converting fractions into decimals/percents and back, computing with fractions and decimals, finding %s, working with integers, and starting to solve basic algebraic equations. There is often some basic probability, statistics, and geometry mixed into a pre-Algebra course as well. I have taught this course many times, and I do an excellent job tutoring kids at this level.
SAT Math,

SAT Math

I have tutored multiple students in SAT preparation (as well as various other standardized tests) during my time as a teacher. I have taught all of the math courses and content that are covered on the SAT. I can share a number of problem solving methods and test taking strategies for mastering this test. As a student in High School, I did the Princeton Review course and it helped raise my SAT score by 100 points. I also took the GRE before entering Graduate School and used the Kaplan materials. I can provide expert guidance with the math portion, and I can also help with the English side of the test.
Study Skills,

Study Skills

In my 9 years of teaching middle and upper school math and social studies, I always emphasized organization and study skills to help my students succeed. There are numerous strategies and techniques to utilize, that can be tailored to each student, depending on the subject, the age, and the individual's needs. Please feel free to contact me with any specific questions about study skills and how we can improve in this area.
English, ESL/ESOL, Reading, SAT Reading, Statistics, Writing

Language

TOEFL,

TOEFL

I recently tutored a student from Mexico City for the TOEFL exam. We worked through all of the sections of the test, using the ETS practice book. In addition to speaking English fluently, my experiences tutoring students for the English side of the SAT and GRE tests enabled me to provide many insights and strategies for success on this exam. He improved his score from the first time he took it.
ESL/ESOL

Math

Algebra 1,

Algebra 1

For most students, Algebra 1 is the first year of high school mathematics, and it is a significant step up from the arithmetic and pre-algebra content taught in middle school. Math is one of the universal languages, and Algebra is a specific language under that larger umbrella. Hence students need to learn how to translate from English to Algebra. Algebra is also an abstract way of thinking that initially can be challenging to grasp, but when mastered, it is extremely powerful for problem solving and reasoning. I have taught Algebra 1 dozens of times, to hundreds of students, with various texts and resources.
Algebra 2,

Algebra 2

Algebra II builds on the foundation of Algebra I, expanding a student's understanding of various functions including linear, absolute value, quadratic, and exponential relationships. Systems are reviewed and then extended to 3 variables, matrices are covered, and logarithms are introduced as an inverse of exponents. Radical functions are also explored and then extended to consider cube roots and beyond. Other topics include Conic Sections, Probability/Statistics, and Sequences & Series. Most courses will finish with a brief study of Trigonometry. I have taught this course and tutored numerous students in it over the years. Hence, I have ample experience and ability to break down the concepts, explain the relationships, and highlight the beauty of Algebra.
Geometry,

Geometry

Geometry is a beautiful study of shapes and spatial reasoning. The word "geometry" translates to earth-measuring, and we do this in various ways in this course. Learning inductive and deductive reasoning is a great mental workout, and the portion of the course that focuses on proofs is a wonderful exercise in logic. I have taught this course many times, to hundreds of students, with various textbooks and approaches. It is my favorite math subject!
Logic,

Logic

Having taught math for nine years, covering grades 6-12, I have immersed myself in the study of logic, reasoning, and problem solving. I am also someone who loves to debate, values Socratic questioning, and has a deep appreciation for science.
Prealgebra,

Prealgebra

A solid Pre-Algebra foundation is crucial for success with high school math and science. This involves converting fractions into decimals/percents and back, computing with fractions and decimals, finding %s, working with integers, and starting to solve basic algebraic equations. There is often some basic probability, statistics, and geometry mixed into a pre-Algebra course as well. I have taught this course many times, and I do an excellent job tutoring kids at this level.
SAT Math,

SAT Math

I have tutored multiple students in SAT preparation (as well as various other standardized tests) during my time as a teacher. I have taught all of the math courses and content that are covered on the SAT. I can share a number of problem solving methods and test taking strategies for mastering this test. As a student in High School, I did the Princeton Review course and it helped raise my SAT score by 100 points. I also took the GRE before entering Graduate School and used the Kaplan materials. I can provide expert guidance with the math portion, and I can also help with the English side of the test.
ACT Math, Probability, Statistics, Trigonometry

Most Popular

Algebra 1,

Algebra 1

For most students, Algebra 1 is the first year of high school mathematics, and it is a significant step up from the arithmetic and pre-algebra content taught in middle school. Math is one of the universal languages, and Algebra is a specific language under that larger umbrella. Hence students need to learn how to translate from English to Algebra. Algebra is also an abstract way of thinking that initially can be challenging to grasp, but when mastered, it is extremely powerful for problem solving and reasoning. I have taught Algebra 1 dozens of times, to hundreds of students, with various texts and resources.
Algebra 2,

Algebra 2

Algebra II builds on the foundation of Algebra I, expanding a student's understanding of various functions including linear, absolute value, quadratic, and exponential relationships. Systems are reviewed and then extended to 3 variables, matrices are covered, and logarithms are introduced as an inverse of exponents. Radical functions are also explored and then extended to consider cube roots and beyond. Other topics include Conic Sections, Probability/Statistics, and Sequences & Series. Most courses will finish with a brief study of Trigonometry. I have taught this course and tutored numerous students in it over the years. Hence, I have ample experience and ability to break down the concepts, explain the relationships, and highlight the beauty of Algebra.
Geometry,

Geometry

Geometry is a beautiful study of shapes and spatial reasoning. The word "geometry" translates to earth-measuring, and we do this in various ways in this course. Learning inductive and deductive reasoning is a great mental workout, and the portion of the course that focuses on proofs is a wonderful exercise in logic. I have taught this course many times, to hundreds of students, with various textbooks and approaches. It is my favorite math subject!
Prealgebra,

Prealgebra

A solid Pre-Algebra foundation is crucial for success with high school math and science. This involves converting fractions into decimals/percents and back, computing with fractions and decimals, finding %s, working with integers, and starting to solve basic algebraic equations. There is often some basic probability, statistics, and geometry mixed into a pre-Algebra course as well. I have taught this course many times, and I do an excellent job tutoring kids at this level.
Study Skills,

Study Skills

In my 9 years of teaching middle and upper school math and social studies, I always emphasized organization and study skills to help my students succeed. There are numerous strategies and techniques to utilize, that can be tailored to each student, depending on the subject, the age, and the individual's needs. Please feel free to contact me with any specific questions about study skills and how we can improve in this area.
English, ESL/ESOL, Reading, Statistics, Writing

Other

Study Skills,

Study Skills

In my 9 years of teaching middle and upper school math and social studies, I always emphasized organization and study skills to help my students succeed. There are numerous strategies and techniques to utilize, that can be tailored to each student, depending on the subject, the age, and the individual's needs. Please feel free to contact me with any specific questions about study skills and how we can improve in this area.
ESL/ESOL, Geography

Special Needs

ADHD,

ADHD

I have helped numerous students with ADD and ADHD in my career as a teacher. As teachers, we make a variety of accommodations and modifications to our teaching, based on recommendations in students' learning plans/IEPs. Catering to individual learning styles is crucial as a teacher, and perhaps even more so as a private tutor.
Special Needs,

Special Needs

Every child is unique in their strengths and areas where there is room for improvement. While teachers strive to accommodate the special needs of their students, this is often challenging when one is faced with teaching 15 or 30 children in a 50 minute period. Private tutoring provides individualized instruction and allows for any and all special needs to be addressed. With extensive experience teaching full-time, from working as a long-term sub. at Rawson Saunders (a private school for students with dyslexia), and through earning my Masters in Education, I have acquired ample experience with how to work with students with special needs.
Study Skills

Study Skills

In my 9 years of teaching middle and upper school math and social studies, I always emphasized organization and study skills to help my students succeed. There are numerous strategies and techniques to utilize, that can be tailored to each student, depending on the subject, the age, and the individual's needs. Please feel free to contact me with any specific questions about study skills and how we can improve in this area.

Sports/Recreation

Chess,

Chess

Chess is one of the quintessential games of anticipation. You have to plan your next move and beyond, while simultaneously trying to predict what your opponent might do. With 32 pieces on the board moving in 6 different ways, there are more than a googol possibilities and only 1 path that each game takes. The hint of war and domination, coupled with the cognitive challenges of seeing and making the future is stimulating and fun. I have played chess since I was a child, I was in the chess club in high school, and I enjoy it now as an adult.
Table Tennis

Table Tennis

I love Ping Pong! I have played my entire life, and I grew up with a table in my garage. We can work on strategy, strokes, serves, consistency, or just have fun.

Summer

Algebra 1,

Algebra 1

For most students, Algebra 1 is the first year of high school mathematics, and it is a significant step up from the arithmetic and pre-algebra content taught in middle school. Math is one of the universal languages, and Algebra is a specific language under that larger umbrella. Hence students need to learn how to translate from English to Algebra. Algebra is also an abstract way of thinking that initially can be challenging to grasp, but when mastered, it is extremely powerful for problem solving and reasoning. I have taught Algebra 1 dozens of times, to hundreds of students, with various texts and resources.
Algebra 2,

Algebra 2

Algebra II builds on the foundation of Algebra I, expanding a student's understanding of various functions including linear, absolute value, quadratic, and exponential relationships. Systems are reviewed and then extended to 3 variables, matrices are covered, and logarithms are introduced as an inverse of exponents. Radical functions are also explored and then extended to consider cube roots and beyond. Other topics include Conic Sections, Probability/Statistics, and Sequences & Series. Most courses will finish with a brief study of Trigonometry. I have taught this course and tutored numerous students in it over the years. Hence, I have ample experience and ability to break down the concepts, explain the relationships, and highlight the beauty of Algebra.
Geometry,

Geometry

Geometry is a beautiful study of shapes and spatial reasoning. The word "geometry" translates to earth-measuring, and we do this in various ways in this course. Learning inductive and deductive reasoning is a great mental workout, and the portion of the course that focuses on proofs is a wonderful exercise in logic. I have taught this course many times, to hundreds of students, with various textbooks and approaches. It is my favorite math subject!
SAT Math,

SAT Math

I have tutored multiple students in SAT preparation (as well as various other standardized tests) during my time as a teacher. I have taught all of the math courses and content that are covered on the SAT. I can share a number of problem solving methods and test taking strategies for mastering this test. As a student in High School, I did the Princeton Review course and it helped raise my SAT score by 100 points. I also took the GRE before entering Graduate School and used the Kaplan materials. I can provide expert guidance with the math portion, and I can also help with the English side of the test.
Study Skills,

Study Skills

In my 9 years of teaching middle and upper school math and social studies, I always emphasized organization and study skills to help my students succeed. There are numerous strategies and techniques to utilize, that can be tailored to each student, depending on the subject, the age, and the individual's needs. Please feel free to contact me with any specific questions about study skills and how we can improve in this area.
ESL/ESOL, GED, Reading, Statistics, Writing

Test Preparation

GRE,

GRE

I have been working with Manhattan Elite Prep for the past couple years, serving as their point person in Austin for GRE tutoring. This organization has sent me a number of clients and a solid set of resources to strengthen my expertise in this area. Additionally, you can see a couple reviews from past GRE students on my profile.
ISEE,

ISEE

I have extensive experience preparing students for standardized tests, from the ISEE and SSAT all the way through to the GED and GRE. The ISEE (Independent School Entrance Exam) has three levels and each contain sections on verbal and quantitative reasoning, reading comprehension, mathematics achievement, and an essay. In addition to helping students with the specific content of each of these sections, I can offer general strategies for how to succeed on a multiple choice test.
SAT Math,

SAT Math

I have tutored multiple students in SAT preparation (as well as various other standardized tests) during my time as a teacher. I have taught all of the math courses and content that are covered on the SAT. I can share a number of problem solving methods and test taking strategies for mastering this test. As a student in High School, I did the Princeton Review course and it helped raise my SAT score by 100 points. I also took the GRE before entering Graduate School and used the Kaplan materials. I can provide expert guidance with the math portion, and I can also help with the English side of the test.
TAKS,

TAKS

I am certified by the State of Texas to teach Mathematics 8-12, Social Studies 8-12, and I have a Masters degree in Education from Texas State University. During the 2010-2011 school year, I taught at Austin High School, incorporating the TEKS in my curriculum, and administering the TAKS test as well as practice tests for Pre-AP Algebra I and Geometry.
TOEFL,

TOEFL

I recently tutored a student from Mexico City for the TOEFL exam. We worked through all of the sections of the test, using the ETS practice book. In addition to speaking English fluently, my experiences tutoring students for the English side of the SAT and GRE tests enabled me to provide many insights and strategies for success on this exam. He improved his score from the first time he took it.
ACT English, ACT Math, ACT Reading, ASVAB, GED, PSAT, SAT Reading, SAT Writing, SSAT

Examples of Expertise

David 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

Rating

4.8 (62 ratings)
5 star
(55)
4 star
(6)
3 star
(0)
2 star
(0)
1 star
(1)

Reviews

Show reviews that mention

All reviews prompt thorough patient excellent grades improved

Featured review

Thanks again, David!

Very helpful, especially with GRE mathematics coursework! Patient and able to explain techniques and shortcuts clearly. Able to quickly refresh me on maths that I haven't done in many years without getting bogged down.

Max, 5 lessons with David

Patient and helpful tutor

David is a wonderful tutor. He is very patient and does a great job of breaking down math concepts so that they are digestible.

Zoey, 7 lessons with David
Tutor responded:

Thanks Zoey! FYI...we are working on GRE math.

Excellent on all counts

David is an excellent tutor. Timely, on task, prompt feedback and my son says he's really learning. Grades are going up!

Theresa, 17 lessons with David

Great tutor.

I'm very pleased to find David. He's been a big help with Algebra I for my son. David is patient and works well with teens. My son has confidence now and finished the year with a solid B.

Eileen, 63 lessons with David

Terrific Geometry Tutor!

David has been so incredibly helpful to our son. Since David started working with him, his grades have improved tremendously, and he is gaining confidence with each lesson. David has also been accommodating, and very willing to work around our son's crazy schedule. David has been terrific, and we highly recommend him as a Geometry tutor.

Paula, 11 lessons with David

Works wonders

David has been helping my two daughters for about 2 months now. The oldest has gone from a C and little confidence to a high B and tons of confidence. The younger daughter has gone from failing with no confidence to a B with confidence. He is very patient and methodical. I can't recommend him highly enough.

Taylor, 23 lessons with David

Dedicated, patient, thorough, kind and professional

My 8th grader has been facing new challenges in math this year, mostly algebra. David M. has been quite a find for us. He has been flexible given our schedule, but more importantly he has worked closely with us to figure out the best and most effective lesson plan for our daughter. As mentioned in the headline, he is dedicated, patient, thorough, kind and professional. His credentials are great. And his thorough knowledge of the subject matter give both us and our daughter confidence - something that is very helpful when kids are having trouble in math! We highly recommend him to other WyzAnt parents! Use him, he's great!

Jose, 33 lessons with David

David M. Recommendation as a Geometry Tutor

David works with my son on high school geometry, and has done an excellent job. My son likes him, and they work side by side reviewing problems, going over homework, and getting ready for exams. David comes to our house regularly each week and is always prompt and on time. I am delighted to give him a strong recommendation for anyone else who wants some help with high school math classes.

Tristan, 20 lessons with David
Contact David

Response time: 26 minutes

$80/hour

David M.'s Photo

David M.

$80/hour

  • No subscriptions or upfront payments

  • Only pay for the time you need

  • Find the right fit, or your first hour is free

Contact David

Response time: 26 minutes