Studying in a group can be a fun and lively way to absorb and memorize information. With the help of three or four others, studying can be transformed from a necessary but mundane activity to a good time.
Procrastination
One of the most prevalent characteristics that plague college students is procrastination. Many students find themselves postponing studying because they want to watch television or hangout with friends. Working in a group forces you to show up, prepared to study the appropriate material on a scheduled basis. You cannot decide to put it off or else you will be letting down yourself and the rest of your group. Study groups are great because they hold you accountable. If you are working on a project or have a section of material you are supposed to explain to the group, you must be prepared. Avoiding procrastination is one of the best ways to succeed in college and study groups will start you in the right direction.
New Perspectives
Most students tend to get set in their methods of studying. They will find a successful way and commit to it. However, observing and adopting different methods for different subjects can be very helpful. Working in a group will introduce you to new ways of studying and give you the opportunity to test them out on yourself. Your group members may also be able to explain the material in a different way. If you can see the material from all angles, you will be able to understand it more fully, thus increasing your chances for memorization. Gaining a new method of studying or new perspectives on the material, from the members of your group, is a great way to increase your knowledge and understanding.
Interaction
Sitting in the library and staring at a textbook, for hours at a time, can be incredibly boring. It is no wonder so many students procrastinate. A major benefit of study groups is the interaction you are able to participate in. You can spit ball ideas back and forth amongst your group and decide upon the best way to tackle the material. It is said that the only way to demonstrate that you have a full grasp of the material is if you can teach another, an idea that can be tested within your groups. Each member can take a turn explaining the material to the best of their ability and if the rest of the group felt they understood the explanation, they are ready for the exam.
Lessens Anxiety
The more you sit around thinking about an upcoming exam, the more stressed you are likely to become. Getting out of your house or apartment to meet up with other people is the first step in keeping your mind off it. Interacting with students who are facing the same workload, will allow you to see that everyone is getting nervous. It is totally normal to get a little worked up about an exam but it is important to channel that nervous energy in a positive way. Going over the material with your classmates will keep you focused on the task at hand and the repetition is great for your memory. If you sit and think too much about it, there is a very good chance you will begin to psych yourself out. You have to be confident with your abilities to retain information. There is no better way to keep up morale than to surround yourself with friends that understand what you are going through and want you to do well.
Study groups can be an enlightening and fun way to get through the monotonous hours in the library. Getting together with a few dependable friends will set you on a consistent schedule and greatly enhance your chances of doing well.