Highly Experienced & Engaging Physics Tutor | 3+ Years of Experience, Hundreds of Hours Taught | GCSE, A Level - All Exam Boards

Find out more about Talha

• 1) When did you develop an interest in your chosen field and in private tutoring?

  My journey into the world of Physics and Mathematics began in my school years, where I consistently found these subjects both challenging and fascinating. However, it was during my time at NUST Islamabad, while pursuing my degree in Electrical Engineering, that I truly realised my deep passion for understanding the laws governing the physical world and the beauty of mathematical logic. The way Physics explains how things work from the motion of planets to the simplest objects on Earth fascinated me, and I wanted to share this excitement with others.
  
  I began tutoring my peers in university, helping them grasp concepts they found difficult. It was incredibly rewarding to see them transform from confused students into confident problem-solvers. This experience inspired me to pursue private tutoring, where I could make a more significant impact on students’ academic journeys. Over time, this passion evolved, and I now specialise in helping students achieve top grades in IGCSE, IB, and A-Level Physics and Mathematics.

• 2) Tell us more about the subject you teach, the topics you like to discuss with students (and possibly those you like a little less).

  I teach both Physics and Mathematics, and I believe these subjects are the foundation for much of the world around us. Physics explains the universe from the forces that shape our day-to-day experiences to the vast mysteries of space. Mathematics, on the other hand, is the language of the universe, providing the tools needed to quantify and understand those phenomena.
  
  Some of my favourite topics to teach include Mechanics, Thermodynamics, and Calculus. For instance, when teaching Mechanics, I use real-world examples such as car collisions and rollercoasters to help students visualise the concepts of force, momentum, and energy. These hands-on examples make abstract ideas come to life. Similarly, in Calculus, I enjoy showing students how differential equations model real-world systems, such as predicting the population growth of species or understanding how objects move in space.
  
  While every topic has its unique appeal, topics like abstract algebra and complex integrations can sometimes be difficult for students to relate to. However, I make sure to break these down into simple, intuitive steps using engaging examples, so students can appreciate their value and feel confident in mastering them.

• 3) Did you have any role models; a teacher that inspired you?

  Absolutely. One teacher who greatly inspired me was my high school Physics teacher. His teaching style was unique he didn’t just teach the theory; he made the concepts come alive by showing us how they applied to the world around us. For example, he would often bring in models or props to demonstrate how different forces worked. I remember one lesson on the law of inertia, where he demonstrated it using a simple experiment with a toy car and a ramp. That lesson stuck with me because it made me realise how Physics isn’t just about equations, but about observing and understanding the world.
  
  This teacher’s passion for the subject and his ability to simplify complex ideas left a lasting impression on me. I strive to incorporate the same excitement and clarity into my own teaching, ensuring that my students feel both challenged and inspired, much like I did.

• 4) What do you think are the qualities required to be a good tutor?

  Being a good tutor is not just about knowing the subject inside and out it’s about knowing how to connect with students and make learning enjoyable and engaging. First and foremost, patience is key. Every student learns at their own pace, and as a tutor, it’s essential to be patient and persistent. I take time to understand my students' learning styles, adapting my approach to suit their needs.
  
  Another crucial quality is the ability to break down complex concepts into digestible parts. Physics and Mathematics can often feel intimidating, but I’ve found that by simplifying problems and using real-life examples, I can help students build a strong conceptual understanding. For example, I once helped a student struggling with Thermodynamics by relating heat transfer to something they enjoyed making hot chocolate. We explored how heat flows from a hot object to a cold one, and the student immediately grasped the concept!
  
  Furthermore, a good tutor must be a motivator. Encouraging students and building their confidence is essential. I always make sure to celebrate small victories and progress, so my students feel motivated to keep pushing forward, even when the going gets tough.

• 5) Provide a valuable anecdote related to your subject or your days at school.

  I remember a particular student who was struggling with the concept of energy conservation in Physics. This student was finding it hard to understand how energy could neither be created nor destroyed but only transferred or transformed. To make this abstract idea clearer, I used the analogy of a bouncing ball. I showed them how when the ball bounces, its energy transforms from potential energy (at the peak of the bounce) to kinetic energy (as it falls). We then extended this idea to real-life examples like a rollercoaster ride, where energy shifts between potential and kinetic forms.
  
  After a few lessons, this student was able to apply the concept confidently in their exam and scored an A* in their Physics exam. This experience reinforced my belief in the power of breaking down complex concepts and making learning relatable to real-life experiences.

• 6) What were the difficulties or challenges you faced or still facing in your subject?

  One of the biggest challenges I faced as a student, and still encounter in my teaching, is overcoming the tendency to rely on rote memorisation. Many students come to me having memorised formulas or facts without truly understanding the underlying principles. For example, I often find students who can recite Newton’s Laws but struggle to apply them to practical problems. This is where my approach to personalised learning comes in, I focus on teaching the why behind the formulas, helping students see the bigger picture and understand how to apply their knowledge.
  
  Time management during exam periods is another challenge many students face. I work closely with my students, not just on the content, but on effective time-management strategies. I use a combination of timed mock exams, focused revision sessions, and strategic planning to help them feel prepared and confident going into their exams.

• 7) Do you have a particular passion? Is it teaching in general or an element of the subject or something completely different?

  My true passion lies in the process of teaching itself. While I am deeply passionate about Physics and Mathematics, what excites me most is watching students grow and gain confidence in their abilities. The moment a student grasps a difficult concept and realises that they can solve challenging problems on their own is incredibly rewarding. I also have a strong passion for problem-solving in general. Whether it’s engineering problems, mathematical puzzles, or even everyday challenges, I enjoy finding creative solutions and sharing this mindset with my students.
  
  Outside of teaching, I have a keen interest in educational technology. I incorporate digital tools into my lessons to make learning more interactive and engaging. From using online whiteboards for real-time problem-solving to incorporating educational apps for practice and revision, I’m always looking for ways to enhance my students’ learning experiences.

• 8) What makes you a Superprof (besides answering these interview questions :-P)?

  What truly makes me a Superprof is my dedication to student success and my ability to make complex subjects accessible and engaging. With over five years of experience tutoring students from various backgrounds, I’ve developed a teaching style that is adaptive, empathetic, and results-driven. I focus on building strong relationships with my students, ensuring that they not only understand the content but also develop a genuine interest in learning.
  
  Additionally, I bring a wealth of practical experience to my lessons, having taught students from renowned institutions like GEMS Wellington in Dubai and the British International School in Riyadh. My expertise spans multiple curriculums, including IGCSE, IB, A-Level, and UK-based systems, and I specialise in creating personalised lesson plans that cater to each student's unique learning style. Whether you are preparing for exams or simply seeking to improve your understanding of Physics and Mathematics, I’m here to guide you through the process every step of the way.