This paper defines and describes what comprises an effective tutorial system. The characteristics defined for a system are presented in the form of a checklist. The characteristics listed are as follows: (a) outcomes, (b) assessment, (c) materials, (d) training, (e) installation, (f) user experience data, and (g) time and costs. Each of the seven characteristics or considerations is elaborated in the course of the text and appropriate research findings and development efforts are referenced. The considerations presented in this checklist may be applied to any school-based tutorial system operated by teachers or other school personnel. The system may be "remedial" in that only low-achieving learners are tutored following regular teacher-administered instruction, or it may be"on-line" in that all children are tutored as part or all of the regular instruction. (JA)