Silence and Waiting Time

As a consultant, an important technique to learn is how to pause and be silent during a tutoring session. Often, it is a good idea to let a few moments of silence elapse in order to allow the writer some time to digest the information you have presented them with. Once you think that you have waited long enough, allow a few additional seconds to pass. Sometimes, you may even want to briefly leave the room, feigning that you need a quick drink of water. Allowing for short breaks during the session will accomplish several purposes, such as:

 
This information was compiled from Chapter 3 of "The Bedford Guide for Writing Tutors."
 
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