"If you were stranded on a deserted island, could you reinvent Algebra? Calculus? Trigonometry?

I could!

Not that that would be the most practical thing to do, but once you understand the basic concepts, you will be able to do the same.

I am a strong believer in understanding concepts and knowing fundamentals, NOT in doing math by rote. I will certainly help you get your homework done and get better grades, but I will also make sure that you understand it!

I teach students techniques to check their work: both by "sanity checks" as in "Does this answer make sense?" and also by reversing the process or calculation. You test an addition problem by subtraction, you test an integration by differentiation, etc.

Knowledge and understanding are empowering and enduring.

Mediocre grades can be enduring too. Let's get to work!" less...