College students seek any advantage possible to improve their grades. Whether it is the competition, personal pride, or the need to appease parents, the pressure to receive good grades is immense. We can all picture the student who stays up all night drinking coffee while cramming for a big test. Studies and common sense show that cramming is not the most effective manner to study. However, lack of self-discipline or the fact that there are not enough hours in the day for a student to accomplish everything they wish leads some students to burn both ends of the candle cramming. One of the more effective and pragmatic ways to prepare for a test or class is to form a study group. Multiple perspectives can shed light on some material that would otherwise give you fits.
Remember that not every study group is created equally. The first rule of thumb is to make sure that you are forming a group comprised of students willing to come prepared and to discuss the material you are reviewing in a thoughtful manner. If someone appears to be a leech (they are coming just to absorb what everyone brings to the table), do not invite him or her to join another study group. It is unfair for a fellow classmate to benefit from the hard work of others without adding anything themselves.
Establish some ground rules ahead of time. Before the time you have scheduled to meet, divide up some of the more difficult material. This is important because the study group should be designed to clear up confusion some members may have. You can review the straightforward material by yourself. The study group is a chance to generate meaningful discussions about the areas that have left some of you scratching your head.
Do not be shy about asking your professor or teaching assistant for ideas. If you explain to your professor that you are organizing a study group for an upcoming exam, it is likely that he or she will help generate thoughtful review questions. They will steer you in the right direction to ensure that your group is not wasting its time. Remember that your professor wants to see his or her students really grasp and understand the material. They will be willing to assist any effort to make this a reality.