First Principles. Real Results.
Expert one-on-one math and physics tutoring for middle school, high school, and early college students
About
Mathematics is one of the most powerful tools a student can develop — and one of the most misunderstood subjects in school. Students don’t hate math. They hate being confused.
I’m Dr. Derrick Boone, founder of Ab Initio Mathematics Tutoring. I hold a PhD in physics from Stanford University and dual Bachelor of Science degrees in physics and engineering from MIT. I’ve spent years in the classroom at elite Bay Area institutions and as a private tutor for both domestic and international students — bringing the same rigorous, first-principles approach to students wherever they are in the world.
My approach is straightforward: understanding comes first, then performance follows. When a student truly understands the mathematics in front of them — both the procedures and the underlying structures — the grades, test scores, and confidence take care of themselves. I work Ab Initio (from first principles), building understanding from the ground up rather than patching gaps with shortcuts and tricks.
Mathematics is both a skill and a talent. Like a sport, it rewards practice. But practice alone isn’t enough. Every elite athlete needs a skilled coach who identifies weaknesses, builds fundamentals, and guides them toward their ultimate potential. I want to be that coach for your student.
I work with students from pre-algebra through differential equations and introductory physics, including classical mechanics and electricity and magnetism, as well as SAT and SSAT mathematics preparation. Whether your student is building a stronger foundation or pushing well beyond grade level, Ab Initio Mathematics meets them where they are and builds from there.
“It is mathematics that protects us from the deception of the senses and teaches us the difference between appearance and truth.”
-Leonhard Euler
Services
One-on-one tutoring: $250 per hour
Individual sessions conducted online via video call. Each session is tailored to your student's current coursework, goals, and pace. Sessions focus on building genuine understanding from first principles.
Asynchronous Homework Help: For current students only
Get expert help on a specific topic between sessions, on your schedule. Each email should address a single concept, problem type, or question. Choose your response time:
Standard — within 48 hours: $50
Priority — within 24 hours: $75
Emergency — within 12 hours: $150
Emergency responses guaranteed within 12 hours during business hours (Monday through Friday, 8am–8pm PST).
-
One-on-one mathematics instruction from pre-algebra through differential equations. Covers middle school, high school, and early college coursework including algebra, geometry, precalculus, calculus, and beyond. Every session builds from first principles — ensuring your student doesn't just get the right answer, but understands why it's right.
-
Instruction in classical mechanics and electricity & magnetism, designed for high school and early college students. Ideal for students enrolled in AP Physics or introductory university physics courses. Emphasis on conceptual understanding and mathematical rigor.
-
SAT and SSAT mathematics preparation tailored to your student's starting point. Some students need content reinforcement. Others need test-taking strategy and pattern recognition. Most need both. Whatever the gap, sessions are structured to close it — and to show meaningful score improvement in the time available.
“Wherever there is number, there is beauty.”
-Proclus
Frequently Asked Questions
-
To make every session as effective as possible, I prepare custom examples and practice problems tailored to your student's specific needs. When booking, please describe the topic or subject area you'd like to cover and attach any relevant syllabus, assignment, or problem set. The more context you provide, the more targeted and productive your session will be.
-
All sessions are conducted online via Zoom. When you book a session through your scheduling link, you’ll receive a confirmation email with your Zoom link and session details. Sessions are one-on-one between your student and me, focused entirely on your students current coursework and goals.
-
Students will receive a copy of notes and any example problems worked during the session via an emailed pdf.
-
Standard sessions are $250 for 60 minutes. Extended 90 minute sessions are available at $350 by request for current students, subject to availability. All new students begin with a complimentary 30 minute consultation before their first session.
-
Tutoring is available in mathematics from pre-algebra through differential equations, including algebra 1 and 2, geometry, precalculus, single and multivariable calculus, differential equations, and other early college math. Physics instruction is available in classical mechanics and electricity and magnetism. Standardized test preparation is offered for the SAT and SSAT mathematics sections.
-
Middle school, high school, and early college students. Whether your student is building foundational skills or working through university-level coursework, sessions are tailored to their level and goals.
-
All new students begin with a complimentary 30 minute consultation that includes a discussion of goals and a brief diagnostic assessment. This consultation allows me to understand your student’s background, identify areas for growth, and tailor an approach before the first session begins. To schedule your consultation, please use the booking link in the scheduling section.
-
Sessions are booked directly through a personal scheduling link. Select your session type - either introductory consultation, 60 minute session, or extended session (as available) - choose a time, and complete the brief intake form. You’ll receive an immediate confirmation with your zoom link. Please note that sessions must be scheduled at least 24 hours in advance.
-
I understand that schedules change. Cancellations made at least 24 hours in advance are free of charge. Cancellations made between 12 and 24 hours before a session are charged at 50% of the session fee. Cancellations made less than 12 hours before a session and no-shows are charged the full session fee. To cancel or reschedule, please use the link in your confirmation email or contact me directly.
-
Current students can submit questions between sessions via email. Each email should address a single concept, problem type, or question. Choose your response time.
Standard response within 48 hours: $50
Priority response within 24 hours: $75
Emergency response within 12 hours: $150
Emergency responses are guaranteed within 12 hours for requests received during business hours (Monday through Friday, 8am–8pm pacific time). Requests received after 8pm will not qualify for emergency turnaround and will be processed as standard or priority requests. For example, an emergency request received at 7:50 PM will receive a response by 7:50 AM. Asynchronous help is available to current students only. Async fees are tallied and included in your monthly invoice as individual line items.
-
Invoices are sent monthly via Squarespace and can be paid by credit card, debit card, or ACH bank transfer. Payment is due within 48 hours of receiving your invoice.
-
Your student will need a device with a camera and a microphone - a laptop or tablet works best. A stable internet connection is important for video quality. I recommend having paper and pencil available for working through problems during the session. Your student will receive a zoom link in their confirmation email - no downloads or accounts are required to join.
Get in Touch
Every student's journey begins with a conversation. Whether you have questions about Ab Initio Mathematics or are ready to take the next step, I am looking forward to hearing from you. All inquiries receive a response within one business day.