Here are some tips you can use at home to help you efficiently learn new information. Homework and studying can be completed with more efficiency. Parents may receive less resistance from their student as their student builds confidence completing their work quicker and with more accuracy. You may also want to try to broaden your learning styles. For example, if your predominant learning style is Visual, it never hurts to try to improve one's auditory comprehension skills. Taking a multi-sensory approach to learning will help your overall comprehension, retention, and application of the knowledge.

Characteristics of a Tactile Learner
Needs to be active and take frequent breaks.	Enjoys field trips, projects, and tasks that involve manipulating materials.
Speaks with their hands and with gestures.	Sits near the door or someplace else where they can easily get up and move around.
Remembers what was done, but has difficulty recalling what was said or seen.	Are often uncomfortable in classrooms where they lack opportunities for hands-on experience.
Finds reasons to tinker or move when bored.	Communicate by touching and appreciate physically expressed encouragement, such as a pat on the back.
Relies on what they can directly experience or perform.	Preference for hands-on learning. Likes to be able to touch or manipulate what is being learned.
Activities such as cooking, construction, engineering and art help them perceive and learn.	Can assemble parts without reading directions.

20 Tips for Tactile Learners
1. Try walking around while reading or studying.	11. Take extensive written notes in class. Write everything. Edit and type them later.
2. Try holding an object in your hand while completing work or studying.	12. Study in short blocks of time with frequent but short breaks.
3. Draw charts or diagrams to help you understand relationships.	13. Use a squeeze stress ball while studying.
4. Use memory games or flash cards to memorize information.	14. Make extensive use of a computer and the Internet. Actively touching the keyboard will keep your mind active.
5. Rather than just sit at your desk, occasionally walk back and forth with your textbook or notes as you read the information out loud.	15. To decrease your fidgeting as you study, listen to quiet music, preferably classical.
6. Use your finger as a guide while reading.	16. Act out things that you have to learn whenever possible.
7. Construct models of things you have to learn whenever possible.	17. If you find it difficult to sit at a desk when studying, trying lying on your stomach or back.
8. When trying to remember information, close your eyes and "write" the information in the air. Picture the information in your mind as you do so.	18. When trying to learn the spelling of a difficult word, arrange letter blocks to spell the word.
9. Trace letters of words with finger (to memorize spelling, for example).	19. Use concrete objects to help you understand math concepts.
10. Get hands on-in science or computer labs, for example-don't just watch someone else do it.	20. Type out or rewrite class notes several times.

It's important for a tutor and educator to be aware of all learning styles and use multi-sensory instructional materials to most effectively teach their students. Tutors are encouraged to look for clues as to how their students think and learn. Characteristics of a student's learning style can be seen in the way they take notes, talk about their teachers, react to their assignments, and respond to questions. Each student learns differently and at a different rate for each learning style. Everyone has a learning style. Our style of learning, if accommodated, can result in improved attitudes toward learning, as well as increased self-esteem and academic achievement. By identifying your learning style and becoming familiar with other styles, you will become a more effective and creative tutor.

Language Arts Tutoring Strategies for Tactile Learners
Grades K-5	Grades 6-12
Have students "skywrite" letters as you give the sounds.	Allow students to complete a compare and contrast activity by drawing and arranging pictures.
Ask students to spell sight words by tapping on their arms as they say a letter.	Let students sort plural words according to the rule that was used.
Show students how to "clap out" or "snap out" syllables.	Have students practice forming cursive letters.
Allow students to spell with letter tiles, cube, or cutouts.	Cut apart a story for students to arrange a sequence that makes sense.
Have students identify and cut out pictures to represent sounds.	Have students choose a writing topic by rolling a writing prompt cube.
Let students draw objects from a bag and give adjectives for them.	Have students cut out simple sentences and arrange into compound or compound-complex sentences, adding punctuation.
Give students objects to arrange in a sequence to write a narrative.	Ask students to change the tense by cutting out and gluing in other verbs.
Give students cut-out words for students to arrange into sentences.	Use sentence strips to write sentences and let students attach a part-of-speech card over each word.
Give students cut-out sentences, conjunctions, and punctuation to form compound sentences.	Have students count syllables by placing a hand under the chins and feeling the chin drop with each syllable.
Encourage them to pick up the book or point to the page as they are reading or talking about it.	Sort cards with supporting details under strips of main ideas.
Have them write while they are reading or talking.	Advise students to sit near the front of their classroom and to take thorough notes. This will keep them focused.
Ask them to use rhythm (beats) to memorize or explain something.	Encourage them to use the computer to reinforce learning using their sense of touch.
Give students an exercise to do at home. Have them read their class notes while looking in the mirror.	Have them write lists repeatedly about story events, vocabulary words, important facts, etc. and bring them in to their tutoring session for review.

Math Tutoring Strategies for Tactile Learners
Grades K-5	Grades 6-12
Let students use tangible objects for adding and subtracting.	Let students demonstrate understanding of a concept through a model drawing.
Cut out numbers from sandpaper for students to trace with their fingers.	Have students make a model that demonstrates the key concept.
Have them use objects for forming multiplication arrays.	Use self-check materials.
Give students tangible base ten cubes to demonstrate place value.	Have students create parallel and perpendicular lines with straws.
Use play money when teaching how to make change.	Have students find geometric shapes in the real world.
Give students a concrete clock model to tell time.	Let students create own three-dimensional shapes.
Show students actual kitchen tools when solving problems with volume.	Allow students to draw the objects indicated in a word problem.
Have students to roll dice and add or subtract the two.	Have students make their own number line.
Allow students to use finger math.	Have them sort flashcards into groups that show relationships.
Change tasks frequently. Ask them to stretch and move in the chairs.	Allow students to make their own flashcards.
Allow students to make their own flash cards.	Allow students to use cubes for multiplying and dividing.
Ask them to stand while they explain something to you.	Recommend that they spend extra time in any labs offered at their school.
Make flashcards for each step in the procedure. Put the cards in order until the sequence becomes automatic.	Ask them to use gestures when giving explanations.

Organization and Communication are KEY factors for building the study skills needed for a lifetime of academic success! It all begins with creating and cultivating a structured homework regimen. Keep backpacks and folders organized, as well as your personal work space. Communication is needed between the parent, student, and the classroom teacher(s).

Designate a "School Home Zone" place in your home, where your student can place important papers that parents will check DAILY. Place a basket by the front door, use a drawer in the kitchen, or hang a bulletin board to stay organized. Parents need to check the "School Home Zone" DAILY, sign any needed paperwork, then place back in School/Home Folder OR have student pick up from "School Home Zone." It's very important to do this consistently so it becomes a habit. Your goal is to create habits and accountability.

Homework Space: What is your child's current "homework space" like? Is it the same spot each night? Consistency is key to make sure they work in the same area each night, during the same time of day (if schedules permits). Make sure all necessary supplies are in the work space. The less the student needs to get up, the better!

Time Management: Time is limited with busy schedules, so efficiency is a key factor. Make the most efficient use of your homework time by using an Agenda or calendar that you refer to daily for homework and week-to-week for larger projects and assignments.

• Create an agenda/planner.
• Use a large calendar to write down ALL activities and due dates. Post this calendar at the students' "Homework Space" work area.

Procrastination: Procrastination may be triggered by anxiety, dislike of a particular subject, or countless other reasons. But how do you deal with it?

• Recognize procrastination.
• Do something small. Break down your work into manageable pieces.
• Create little goals for yourself that are reachable.
• Reward yourself as you make your way through your work. Enjoy these times of freedom and pleasure without guilt, knowing that you will return to your work.

Study Skills Tips
Before you study, know about the upcoming test or quiz: content being covered, types of questions (multiple choice, fill in blanks, etc.), and timeframe for test/quiz.	With your child, determine how long each assignment will take before starting. Setting expectation is essential.
Turn everything OFF!! Cell phones, TV, Ipod, computer.	Know when tests and quizzes are scheduled.
Have all necessary supplies in the designated work area - snack and drink included!	Make a mock test for your child to will help with nerves, and provide you the opportunity to see what information they need help with.
Review notes on days with little assigned homework.	Do the least favorite/hardest assignment first.
Have break times outlined at the start. If homework takes 30 minutes, you will get a 5 minute break." Have break time boundaries set so time limits aren't exceeded.	Make sure your child reads the directions carefully before beginning assignments. Encourage your child to work through an assignment first then ask for help when needed.
Get homework done at the same time every day or have set "homework time."	Keep subjects organized by color coding binders and folders.
Encourage your child to think positively!	Get consistent sleep before quizzes and tests.

A classroom is filled with all types of learners and yet all students have to conform to a preferred method of assessment on test day. Whether you are an auditory, visual, or tactile learner, at some point most people have difficulty with certain forms that tests. Here are some helpful hints, though you should also ask your teachers about their expectations on a given test.

Tips for Sentence Completion Items	Tips for Short Answer Essay
Use grammar cues from the presented portion of the question.	Answers can be in brief sentences or lists that show you understand the main points. Try to highlight terms and concepts.
The presented portion of the question places restrictions on what can logically follow or precede it. Be logical.	Answers can be in brief sentences or lists that show you understand the main points. Try to highlight terms and concepts.
Consider the number and length of the blanks to be filled in. There is never a penalty for guessing so always write in some answer.	Write something for every essay question, even if you are not completely certain of the content. It is rare that a question about which you know absolutely nothing will be asked. Try to get partial credit this way.
Make sure your answer is as specific as possible.	Make your answer clear and legible.
Tips for Multiple Choice Questions	Tips for Long Answer Essay
If the answer is not readily apparent, reread the question and answer it independently of the choices. Then, look back at the options to see if one is more readily apparent. If you are still stumped, read the question and then the first answer. Read the question again followed by each of the other answers. See which one sounds best.	Read the question carefully to make sure you include what is wanted in the answer. It is easy to get off track.
Show caution around the following words: every, always, and never.	Outline your answer before writing it.
Be careful with "all of the above" and "none of the above" answers.	Write an introduction that lays out the important questions or the main ideas in your answer.
Pick out the one that is most nearly true. Sometimes, no answer seems perfect.	Define the terms used in your answer.
Time can go quickly in multiple choice sections. Be sure to budget your time.	Use examples and facts to support your main points. Be sure to summarize and draw conclusions.
Consider all options. Don't select the first one that sounds good.	Use subheadings to break down and organize the information. Write in outline form if time does not permit a complete answer.
Eliminate incorrect answers first.	Allow time to polish your answers. Write legibly!
Tips for Matching Questions	Tips for True-False Questions
Read the directions carefully. Some instructors ask to match those that are different and some ask to match those that are the same.	Most people spend too much time on these questions. If an answer isn't readily apparent, guess and move on. The answer may be triggered in later questions.
Answer easy questions first to reduce the chance of guessing incorrectly on more difficult matches.	Mark statements true only if they are true without exception.
Keep a close eye on the grammar. A single word can make all of the difference.	Beware of words like all, most, some, few, none, no, always, usually, sometimes, rarely, and never.

Anxiety is a real and natural interference to studying and learning. The bright side of anxiety is that, at a particular level, it can motivate us. At other levels, it is a roadblock. Test anxiety is a learned behavior. There are ways to cope with anxiety however. Watch what you think! Sometimes our own thoughts can defeat us. Try and monitor your thoughts, so they stay in a positive direction. Replace negative thoughts and feelings with more hopeful positive ones, as discussed above.

Causes of Test Anxiety	Steps to Manage Test Anxiety
The association of grades and personal worth.	Before starting a test, look at the number of sections and budget time for each section.
From a feeling of a lack of control.	Get 8 hours of sleep the night before a test.
From fear of alienation from parents, family, and friends due to poor grades.	Develop a study plan as soon as possible.
Timed tests and the fear of not finishing the test, even if one can do all the problems.	Don't rush! Have a calm morning before the test with a good breakfast.
Fear of not having studied enough.	Think positively! Your thoughts can have a dramatic impact on your performance.
Fear of having studied the wrong material.	Before you turn in your test, review your answers one last time.

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