Gradwise

Forming a Study Group That Works

A study group can be wonderful-when it is productive. Unfortunately, many study groups become so unorganized that they can hinder a student's performance. If you are thinking about forming a study group, you don't want to miss out on this article.

Some schools require study groups, while others just encourage them. Regardless of your school's policy, joining or forming a study group is almost always a good idea.

Why Study Groups
Study groups can be your saving grace when you are in college. Because there is so much new information to take in, it can be helpful to get together with a group of people who have heard the same information. Together, you can continue class discussions, prepare for tests, or help each other write and edit papers. A study group is a lot like a support system, which is exactly what you sometimes need to get a job done.

Forming a Study Group
If you are interested in forming a study group, you first need to determine how large you want it to be. If it's too large or too small, it may be hard to get anything accomplished. Five or six is usually a good number for a study group.

Your next step will involve determining who you want to join the study group. You will want to include people that you will be comfortable working with. You may also want to choose fellow students that have something to contribute to the group.

Study Group Tips
Here are some tips to ensure that your study group is effective:
• Use meeting times to study, not socialize.
• Create study strategies.
• Encourage everyone in the study group to contribute.

Related Articles
» Recommended Extracurricular Activities
» 10 Study Tips You Can't Go Without
» Best College Internship Opportunities
» Study Resources for College Students
» Preparing for Standardized Tests