• Some students believe an isolated environment is necessary for better concentration.  This might be true if you just want to memorize, without processing or understanding information – and it’s almost certain you will forget everything in a week!  If you want to understand what and why you are studying, an interactive approach is a superior choice.
• When studying with others, you become vulnerable to exposing what you don’t know.  This is exactly why you should participate in a tutoring session/study group.  Successful people overcome feelings of embarrassment or shame regarding what they don’t know.  Independent learners more often realize there is more to learn or understand about a topic.

• Studying with others allows you to realize what you don’t understand. As annoying/embarrassing as this might be, it is better to address weaknesses within a trusted group of peers and helpful staff (i.e. Peer Tutors).  This way, it’s less likely you’ll be caught off guard in class.
• Often it’s difficult to understand every detail of a lecture or reading. Others may have paid more attention to parts you missed or have an understanding of something you don’t – peers help one another fill in gaps. The best way to really learn and understand something is to explain it to others and receive feedback.
• Through a cooperative and/or competitive nature, study groups promote critical thinking and creativity as new questions and explanations arise through discussion and debate. An interactive environment ensures a deeper level of thinking and learning.
• The temptation to procrastinate is greater when studying alone. When studying alone, it’s easy to rationalize – you make a cup of tea every hour (telling yourself it’s important to stay hydrated), you check social media every five minutes (telling yourself you want to see if a classmate posted anything about the exam).  Taking breaks is important, but all of this stopping and starting contributes to wasted time, frustration and the development of ineffective study habits.

Be very careful when choosing your companions. Tutors make excellent study buddies.

• Work with the people that motivate and inspire you.
• Look for those that are alert/focused in class and who ask questions/participate.
• An ideal study group is three or four people.
• Be prepared!  Complete any reading, writing, or assignments before the session to make the most of your time.
• Have a well-defined schedule and intent for the session.