Just like everything in life, there is no one-size-fits-all when you are considering group study and personal study.
It is said that if you want to go far in life, go with people, but if you want to go fast, go alone.
Now the question is, do you need people to grow in your educational journey? The answer is YES. But to what extent?
As a young adult in college, I had my reservations about studying in groups but I often saw my colleagues study in groups.
I decided to settle this internal conflict and experimented with group studying.
I realised that my attention was constantly divided anytime I studied with different study groups and I could not complete my thought process without someone interrupting me.
This was not for me. Switching back to my solo studying pattern was the best course of action.
The debate between group studying and personal studying has gone on long enough. Now this is not me taking sides, but the points below will help you determine what works for you.
Group Study
This is done when a group of individuals come together to study for growth, which could be school growth or work growth.
Studying in group helps you cultivate your critical thinking and problem-solving skills as you are forced to share your thoughts on different topics.
Group study also helps to curb stage fright because constant group meetings help participants who struggle with social awkwardness become comfortable talking with other people.
Remember those times when all you wanted to do was to close your books because you had no motivation to read them? Group study helps you overcome lack of interest towards reading because you are spurred into action when you see your peers studying.
On the flip side, if you are someone who finds it difficult to concentrate in any group setting, this will not be the best course of action when choosing a study pattern.
Some individuals who study in groups rely on other people to get good grades in certain courses during examinations. This reduces self-confidence and increases reliance on team members.
Individuals like extroverts who thrive during gatherings might find it difficult to concentrate and make the most of their stay with a study group.
Personal Study
Do you remember that classmate who was a lone ranger but ended up excelling in all their courses? This is very relatable because we all had that classmate that kept to themselves but still topped the class academically.
This is a classic example of a personal approach to studying and it simply focuses on individual studying.
One major advantage of personal study is high concentration because you are not distracted from the constant chatter of being in a group setting.
Less distraction will increase your focus while studying and help you cover more topics in lesser time without constant interruptions from group members.
Also, if you are someone who appreciates your personal space and blossoms when you are doing the task alone, personal studying is your thing.
One of the major drawbacks of the personal study approach is that you have to resist the lack of motivation that students experience occasionally.
Personal studying does not help you overcome social awkwardness because you are constantly stuck in your thoughts and have no medium to share them while studying.
The trick to choosing between group studying and personal studying is based on individual preferences, learning patterns and focusing on the strengths and weaknesses of both methods to suit your needs.
In conclusion, choosing a study pattern that works is as important as a doctor’s appointment and should be taken seriously. I hope this article has settled your internal conflicts regarding the study pattern that works for you.
