Studying in groups is often more fun than learning alone, but it’s not necessarily more productive. Study groups often get off track and distracted because you are learning with friends or classmates. This list of tips will help you and your study group have a more effective studying session.
1) Have Only 3-4 People in Your Study Group
Having five or more people in your study group becomes packed. Limit your group to 3-4 people so you can easily hold others accountable for their work and study more efficiently.
2) Have a Phone Basket
A phone basket will minimize phone distractions.
Most of the time, when students are studying there is no need for their phones. They are either working on paper or their computer. And even if you are working on paper, you will more often than not search for help on your computer. Having a phone basket where you all put your phones will minimize the urge to reach for your phone, and if you do get it there is this invisible timer that will make you want to use your phone as quickly as possible since everybody else’s phone is in the basket.
3) Eat Before Studying
Eating before studying will limit your excuse to stop reviewing to get a quick bite and prevent cravings or a hungry stomach from bothering your study session. Remember to have a filling meal.
4) Plan Out Your Study Session Based on What You Are Going to Study and for How Long
Know what you will study because having a group study session doesn’t mean you will all work on the same things together. Plan out the topics you need to do and how much time you will spend on each item.
5) Find a Quiet Place to Study
It’s hard to work in a loud, distracting environment. That’s why it’s essential to study in a quiet place like a cafè or a library room.
6) Go Over the Things That You or Someone Else is Struggling With
Studying in groups means that you have a human Google to ask questions to. So if you or someone else are struggling with a subject, just ask someone else.
7) Play Study Games to Make Studying Fun
Study games are the easiest way to make studying fun. A simple game of whoever answers the question correctly and reaches 15 points can be fun. Or perhaps a game of Finish the Sentence, or if you have more time, plan out a Jeopardy game!
8) Teach Others the Material
Teaching others is a win-win situation because not only are you reviewing the material, but you also helping someone understand the topic.
9) Quiz Each Other
Quizzing each other is another great way to study, and it makes it more fun.
10) Take Breaks of Five Minutes Without Going on Your Phone
Taking breaks is crucial when you studying so you don’t get burnout. But going on your phone may not be the best idea because many people struggle to get off their phone once they are on it. That’s why I recommend taking stretch breaks or just simply walking around.
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