HelpNow Frequently Asked Questions
HelpNow is a comprehensive suite of online academic services designed to support many learning needs and styles.
What services does HelpNow offer?
HelpNow provides unique services for each of the three main sources of learning—expert instruction, peer-to-peer collaboration, and self-study.
Expert Help Services
• Live Help. Enter our online classroom and receive live, online homework help from a Brainfuse tutor. Expert writing assistance is also available.
• Skills Building. Master an academic concept through expert tutoring and state-aligned online lessons, Skills Building is designed for a variety of age groups and academic needs.
• 24/7 Center. Submit a homework question and a tutor will provide you with a response (usually within 24 hours).
• Language Lab. Expert homework assistance and support for students who are learning a foreign language. Tutoring is currently offered for Spanish; however, resources for learning other languages are forthcoming.
• Writing Lab. For a more thorough analysis than the assistance offered via Live Help. Approximately 24 hours after submitting your work, you will receive a detailed analysis of your paper in your message center inbox. Our writing experts will focus their analysis on voice, word choice, sentence fluency, and organization.
Study Tools
• Test Center. Take practice standardized tests (SAT, ACT, GED, etc.) and subject-specific tests, like math and science. Get results instantly and, if you choose, share your results with one of our tutors for a targeted skills building session.
• Flashbulb. Enjoy 24/7 access to an extensive library of online flashcard sets in hundreds of subjects. Create your own flashcards and multiple choice quizzes for self-study on computers and mobile devices.
Collaborative Tools
• MEET. Use MEET to schedule online meetings with your friends in the Brainfuse classroom so you can study for tests, work on homework assignments, or collaborate on projects.
• Brainwave. Brainwaves are ideal for recording solutions to homework problems, note-taking, class projects, or any other concepts that involve motion or sequencing. Create a Brainwave or search our Brainwave archive.
What services are available for adult learners?
Our Adult Learning Center provides comprehensive academic support from trained adult education specialists in areas such as U.S. Citizenship testing, resume and cover letter assistance, and core skills building.
When can I access HelpNow?
Many of the services are available 24/7. The live tutors are available from 2:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m., seven days a week.
How do I access HelpNow?
From any computer with Internet access, including a library terminal, home computer, or your notebook connected to the Internet at your local coffee shop. All you need is your library card number.
Who are my tutors?
HelpNow tutors are trained and certified by Brainfuse. All tutors have been cleared with thorough background and reference checks, possess a four-year degree, have prior teaching/tutoring experience, and are U.S. based.
What subjects are offered?
HelpNow is available for K – Adult Learners in the following general subjects:
• Math, including Algebra I, Algebra II, Geometry, Trigonometry, and Calculus
• Science, including Biology, Chemistry, Physics, and Earth Science
• Social Studies, including US History, and World History
• English/Language Arts
• Writing Assistance
• Reading Comprehension/Grammar/Vocabulary Skills Building
• English Literature
• Spanish Language Help