Assess the student's strengths and weaknesses. Some young writers just need help polishing their work, while others need intensive help with basics like grammar, spelling and punctuation. Understanding the student's skill level helps you explain his or her needs to the writing tutor.
Research the tutoring centers in your area. Many large tutoring companies--such as Sylvan Learning, SCORE! Educational Centers and KnowledgePoints--have offices in cities nationwide. Going through a tutoring center can be more expensive than hiring an independent tutor, but these centers offer advantages such as libraries and computer labs.
Call a nearby college or university. Nearly every school has a writing center staffed by English majors and other qualified tutors. College-age tutors typically charge reasonable rates and have flexible schedules.
Ask for references. Whether you choose an independent tutor or one from a large center, you should ask for the phone numbers of past clients. These clients can give you valuable information about a tutor's teaching style and level of professionalism.
Interview the tutor. Make sure that he understands the student's needs and that he has experience with similar students. Ask for a sample "tutoring lesson plan," so that you can better understand the tutor's teaching style.
Set a schedule. The student will benefit from having structure and the writing tutor will appreciate the consistency.
Pay fairly and promptly. Good tutors charge anywhere from $25 to $200 per hour. If you make special requests--such as asking the tutor to drive to your home or asking for an extra-long tutoring session--compensate the tutor accordingly.