Search
D. Michael B.'s Photo

PhD Test Prep & Writing Tutor | 20+ Yrs Experience
D. Michael B.

5.0 (41 ratings)

114 hours tutoring

Your first lesson is backed by our Good Fit Guarantee
Hourly Rate: $50
Contact D. Michael
Response time: 6 hours

About D. Michael

Bio

Struggling with essay structure, test prep, or just feeling stuck in class? I can help.

I'm a PhD-level educator with 20+ years of experience helping students build real confidence in writing, research, and academic thinking. Whether it’s acing the SAT, crafting standout AP essays, or preparing for college-level work, I guide students step-by-step with strategies that work.

I specialize in:

AP History, Psychology, and Environmental Science

SAT/ACT English sections (Reading &...

Struggling with essay structure, test prep, or just feeling stuck in class? I can help.

I'm a PhD-level educator with 20+ years of experience helping students build real confidence in writing, research, and academic thinking. Whether it’s acing the SAT, crafting standout AP essays, or preparing for college-level work, I guide students step-by-step with strategies that work.

I specialize in:

AP History, Psychology, and Environmental Science

SAT/ACT English sections (Reading & Writing)

Critical reading & writing (essays, DBQs, research papers)

Study skills and academic organization

With a deep background in transnational history and cultural analysis, I bring an interdisciplinary edge to my teaching. More importantly, I focus on results: my students learn how to think clearly, write persuasively, and tackle complex ideas with confidence.

Let’s turn stress into structure—and goals into achievements. I look forward to working with you!

Read more

Education

University of Texas at Austin
history
University of Texas at San Antonio
Masters
University of Iowa
PhD

Additional Languages

German

Policies

  • Hourly Rate: $50
  • Rate details: I charge $50 per hour, with group rates available upon request. For multiple-hour lessons, I offer a discount of 10% for sessions of 3 hours or more.
  • Lesson cancellation: 12 hours notice required

  • No background check

  • Your first lesson is backed by our Good Fit Guarantee

Schedule

Loading...

Sun

Mon

Tue

Wed

Thu

Fri

Sat

D. Michael hasn’t set a schedule.

We’re having trouble loading this schedule right now. Please try again later.

Approved Subjects

ACT English

ACT English

With extensive experience preparing students for the ACT, I specialize in the English section, emphasizing grammar, punctuation, and rhetorical skills. I utilize a variety of practice materials and test-taking strategies to build confidence and improve scores. My approach is tailored to each student's unique needs, ensuring they understand the concepts and can apply them effectively on the test.
American History

American History

Holding a PhD in History, I bring a deep understanding of American history and its complexities to my teaching. I have taught various historical topics at different educational levels, focusing on critical thinking and historical analysis. My lessons are designed to engage students with the material and encourage them to draw connections between past events and contemporary issues. I aim to foster a passion for history and its relevance in today’s world.
English

English

I have over 20 years of teaching experience in English language arts, focusing on reading, writing, and critical analysis. My PhD in History allows me to incorporate a rich understanding of context and nuance into my lessons. I employ engaging methods that encourage students to develop their writing skills and analytical thinking.
European History

European History

I hold a PhD in history, with one of my fields of specialization in European history. I’ve taught and tutored for over a decade, working with students at the high school, college, and AP levels. I’m especially experienced in preparing students for the AP European History exam, helping them strengthen both their knowledge of key periods and their historical thinking skills—like analyzing documents, recognizing patterns of continuity and change, and crafting strong thesis-driven essays. I also work closely with students on multiple-choice strategies to build confidence and accuracy.
Geography

Geography

I hold a Ph.D. in history and possess a robust academic and practical background in geography, having studied the flow of people and ideas transnationally and across time. My research employs interdisciplinary methodologies, including GIS mapping, to analyze geographic phenomena. In a forthcoming publication, I visualize the circum-Caribbean as a space of knowledge-making and role transgression through the location of letters written by Zora Neale Hurston. Additionally, I mapped the journeys of two anthropologists during their six trips to Mexico from Germany between 1880 and 1911, highlighting migration and cultural exchanges. My teaching experience includes developing and instructing undergraduate courses with significant geographic components—such as "The Metropolis and Modern Life," which explores the city as an idea and space, focusing on migration, knowledge flows, and the built environment as key factors in shaping urban spaces. Furthermore, I have taught students ranging from ages 6 to adults in one-on-one tutoring sessions, creating tailored lessons that engage learners with current issues in geography while adapting to diverse learning styles.
SAT Writing

SAT Writing

As an SAT Writing tutor, I focus on helping students master the essential skills required for success on the exam. I provide targeted instruction on essay writing, grammar, and editing, drawing from my experience in both teaching and tutoring. My personalized feedback and practice exercises empower students to enhance their writing and analytical skills. I am dedicated to ensuring that my students feel prepared and confident on test day.
Study Skills

Study Skills

I specialize in helping students develop effective study skills that enhance their learning and academic performance. With years of experience teaching students of various ages, I emphasize strategies such as time management, goal setting, active reading techniques, and effective note-taking methods. I focus on creating personalized study plans that cater to individual learning styles, promoting engagement and retention of material. My goal is to empower students with the tools they need to become independent learners and achieve success across all subjects.
Thesis Writing

Thesis Writing

I hold a PhD in History and have experience supporting writers at every stage of the academic ladder — from undergraduate theses to master's theses, doctoral dissertations, and research papers. My university teaching background means I understand what committees and advisors are actually looking for, and I can help students develop clear arguments, strong structure, and scholarly writing that meets the expectations of their field. Whether you're just finding your thesis statement or working through final revisions, I can help you move forward with confidence.
TOEFL

TOEFL

I am a certified TOEFL instructor with a focus on helping non-native speakers achieve their desired scores. I provide comprehensive instruction in reading, writing, listening, and speaking, tailored to each student's language proficiency level. My teaching strategies include practice tests, personalized feedback, and targeted exercises that enhance language skills. I am committed to supporting students as they prepare for this important exam and pursue their academic goals.
World History

World History

I hold a PhD in History and have over 20 years of experience teaching world history. My extensive background allows me to engage students in a comprehensive understanding of historical contexts and themes.
ACT Reading
Ecology
Government & Politics
Grammar
GRE
Literature
Philosophy
Physical Science
Psychology
Reading
SAT Reading
Social Studies
Vocabulary
Writing

Examples of Expertise

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

See all of D. Michael ’s answers ›
D. Michael B.'s Photo

Questions? Contact D. Michael before you book.

Still have questions?

Contact D. Michael
Response time: 6 hours

Ratings and Reviews

Rating

5.0 (41 ratings)
5 star
(41)
4 star
(0)
3 star
(0)
2 star
(0)
1 star
(0)

Reviews

A Patient and Knowledgeable Tutor Who Builds Confidence

Michael has worked with my son on multiple writing assignments and test prep for his American History class, and it’s made a significant impact. His depth of knowledge in history is truly impressive, but what also stands out is how well he helps my son actually understand and use that knowledge. My son has dyslexia and dysgraphia, and Michael has been helping him develop stronger writing skills. He breaks down large, often overwhelming assignments into clear, structured, and manageable steps, giving my son the tools to work independently and with confidence. It shows in his grades—my son has earned A grades on his writing assignments. Just as important, Michael creates a positive and encouraging learning environment. My son always finishes their sessions in a good mood and has mentioned how patient and supportive Michael is and that he shows a genuine interest in his life. Michael also does a great job connecting history to real-life situations, which makes learning engaging and relevant. He never rushes my son and encourages my son to think for himself. We recommend Michael to anyone looking for a knowledgeable, patient, and highly effective tutor.

Kathy, 9 lessons with D. Michael

Knowledgeable and patient tutor

Michael has been tutoring my son since August. He is very kind and patient with him. He is very organized and taught my son to keep track of his assignments. Michael is a very positive person. He boosted my son's self-esteem and made him believe in his skills. My son starts showing confidence is expressing his thoughts. He improved his writing skills. His grades got better. We'll keep working with Michael until my son can become fully independent student.

Marta, 16 lessons with D. Michael

Kind, Patient, and Highly Knowledgeable

Michael began working with my daughter to improve her writing skills, and we were so impressed with his guidance that we also asked him to help her with AP U.S. History. He has been a truly wonderful tutor — warm, patient, and always encouraging. He takes the time to explain complex ideas clearly, and he adapts his teaching to meet her specific needs. Thanks to his support, my daughter is currently earning an A in her AP U.S. History course and Honors English class. We’re very thankful to have found him!

Euna, 21 lessons with D. Michael
Hourly Rate: $50
Response time: 6 hours
Contact D. Michael