This guide describes specific strategies that can be used by an adult tutor to help students prepare for the high school basic competency test in mathematics and reading. Included are test taking tips and a series of suggestions for practice work in reading and math. The use of practical materials such as newspaper advertisements and telephone bills is emphasized. Suggestions for building up a student's self-confidence are also made. Samples of test questions, answers to the questions and a tutor evaluation form are included. Listings of summer schools which provide basic competency programs and agencies which sponsor tutors are appended. (EB)