Written by James Chae — Co-Founder, Expert Sapiens
Platform expertise: English language instruction · Reviewed June 2026
Session Prep
Getting real value from an English tutoring session means showing up with specific questions, not just hoping for organic conversation. The most common mistake learners make is treating a session like a casual chat rather than a focused learning opportunity. This guide is organized around three areas: assessing your current level and gaps, improving specific skills, and planning your path forward. Before your session, identify the one or two areas where you feel most stuck — that's where your tutor can add the most value. Bring examples: an email you wrote that felt awkward, a sentence you couldn't finish, or a word you kept reaching for but couldn't remember.
1.Based on what you've heard from me so far, what are my most noticeable weaknesses?
A trained tutor hears things in your speech and writing that you can't hear yourself. Ask for an honest diagnostic early.
2.Am I making any pronunciation errors that are likely to cause misunderstandings with native speakers?
Some pronunciation errors are cosmetic; others genuinely interfere with comprehension. Knowing the difference helps you prioritize.
3.What grammar patterns am I using incorrectly most consistently?
Recurring errors are habits — they need targeted practice, not just correction in the moment.
4.Is my vocabulary limiting what I can express, and if so, in which area?
Vocabulary gaps are often domain-specific. A tutor can help you identify whether you need general vocabulary, professional terminology, or idiomatic expressions.
5.Can you give me feedback on this specific piece of writing — [email, essay, or report]?
Bring a real example from your life. Targeted feedback on something you actually wrote is more useful than generic writing exercises.
6.What would make this sentence or paragraph sound more natural to a native English speaker?
Grammatically correct English can still sound unnatural. This question helps you develop a feel for idiomatic expression.
7.How should I handle situations where I don't understand what a native speaker said?
Clarification strategies are an underrated skill. Good tutors teach you how to ask for repetition or clarification without losing the thread of a conversation.
8.For [a specific situation I face regularly — meetings, presentations, emails], what phrases or structures would make me sound more confident and professional?
Situational English is more useful than abstract grammar. Bring the real context; get the real language.
9.Based on my current level and my goal, what should I focus on between sessions?
The best tutors give you a practice system, not just homework. Ask for a specific recommendation.
10.How long do you think it will take me to reach [your specific goal] at this pace?
Sets realistic expectations and gives you a basis for evaluating whether the current approach is working.
11.What resources — apps, books, podcasts, or shows — would you recommend for someone at my level with my goals?
Your tutor knows your level and goals better than any generic recommendation list. Their suggestions will be more targeted.
Written by James Chae — Co-Founder, Expert Sapiens
Platform expertise: English language instruction · Reviewed June 2026