The Benefits of Tutoring: How Mentoring Can Improve Academic Performance

Mentoring can be a powerful tool for helping students reach their full potential. Research has shown that tutoring can have a positive impact on academic performance, motivation, and learning abilities. Studies have demonstrated that tutoring can raise average students to the 98th percentile, and even high-achieving students can benefit from mentoring at all grade levels. Observational studies have found it difficult to determine the exact effects of tutoring programs by looking at students' educational trajectories before and after tutoring. Mentoring can be a powerful tool for helping students reach their full potential. Research has shown that tutoring can have a positive impact on academic performance, motivation, and learning abilities. Studies have demonstrated that tutoring can raise average students to the 98th percentile, and even high-achieving students can benefit from mentoring at all grade levels. Observational studies have found it difficult to determine the exact effects of tutoring programs by looking at students' educational trajectories before and after tutoring.

However, there is evidence that tutoring can facilitate the social and academic integration of undeclared students. Hartman (1990) found that mentoring sessions can provide a social interaction that helps students to progress in their studies. Tutoring can also help to improve study habits and time management skills. By providing guidance and support, tutors can help students to develop better strategies for tackling their studies.

This can include helping them to break down tasks into manageable chunks, as well as providing advice on how to prioritize their workload. In addition, tutors can provide personalized feedback on assignments and exams. This can help students to identify areas where they need to improve, as well as giving them the confidence to tackle more challenging tasks. Tutors can also provide guidance on how to approach different types of questions, which can be invaluable for exam preparation. Finally, tutoring can help to build self-esteem and confidence in students.

By providing a safe and supportive environment, tutors can help students to develop their self-belief and resilience. This can be particularly beneficial for those who are struggling with their studies or who lack motivation.

Rowan Hales
Rowan Hales

Rowan Hales is a UK mathematics educator with 15+ years of classroom experience across GCSE, IGCSE, and A-Level. Formerly an examiner for both AQA and Edexcel, Rowan has spent the last decade specialising in revision design, diagnostic teaching, and online tutoring pedagogy. They combine academic precision with an unusual gift for demystifying intimidating concepts—turning grade boundaries, exam structures, and maths topics into clear, confidence-building guidance.Rowan’s writing voice blends exam-insider knowledge, warm mentorship, and straightforward practicality, making them feel like the “trusted maths teacher you wish you’d always had.”