TutorMate offers seven interaction modes, and switching between them is one of the most underused features. Each mode changes how the tutor responds, not just what it says.
Socratic mode leads with questions rather than explanations — best when you have some background and want to think through a problem yourself. Step-by-step mode breaks a problem into sequential stages, ideal when you're learning something new.
Roleplay mode is built for language practice and historical or literary perspective-taking — the tutor takes on a character and responds in context. Examples mode generates worked examples similar to your current problem, useful when you understand the concept but need to see the pattern applied.
Quiz mode tests recall with low-stakes questions, show-your-thinking mode asks you to narrate your reasoning as you go (useful for catching errors early), and co-learn mode brings a second participant — often a parent — into the session.
You can switch modes at any point using the mode selector in the session toolbar. Many students start a topic in step-by-step mode, then switch to Socratic mode once the basics click, and finish with quiz mode to check retention.