Establish a schedule for the tutoring sessions. Set a specific schedule --- for example, from 3:30 to 4:30 p.m. on Tuesdays and Thursdays --- and try to establish a deadline for when the tutoring sessions will culminate. Plans and needs often change but it is wise for you and the student to set parameters right from the start.
Discuss the scope of your tutoring sessions. Most often, students seek "extra help" with specific topics or a specific assignment, such as a research paper.
Set goals and objectives for the sessions. Most often, this includes setting deadlines for the student, as well as any penalties for missing them. Students may try to "bend the rules" with tutoring; so, be prepared to be strict when it comes to enforcing deadlines. Your effectiveness may depend on it.
Conduct a learning styles assessment of the student to find out how he learns best. Is he a visual, auditory or kinesthetic learner? Tutoring affords an ideal opportunity to tailor your lessons accordingly. With your efforts focused on only one student --- as opposed to a classroom full of students --- this modification should be relatively easy to do. Your student will learn more and gain confidence, which will enhance your effectiveness.
Select certain benchmarks --- for example, the quarter-point mark, the halfway mark of the tutoring commitment --- and reward the student's accomplishments. Students learn best when they feel confident; so, even a small token from you (for example, a homemade bookmark or a homemade "achievement" certificate) is bound to be appreciated and bolster your student's confidence.
End each session with a clear summary of what was achieved, as well as what tasks or homework the student must have ready for the next tutoring session.
Keep the lines of communication open at all times with the student, as well as the student's subject teacher. Keep the teacher apprised of your efforts, make extra copies of pertinent information and ask for feedback. Your goal is to help the student succeed.