How to Plan Your Time (^) ‹ 11
Setting Up a Study Group
One of the most effective strategies in preparing for the AP European History Exam is to
study with other students preparing for the exam; however, not all study groups are equally
successful. Here are some important considerations to assist you in the successful planning
and implementation of your study group.Why?
____ Take advantage of others’ strengths and abilities. Different students will have different
insights.
____ Lessen the individual workload by delegating specific topics (a time period, an event,
an individual) to each member to present to the group.
____ Increase your likelihood of following through by making commitments to others.Who?
____ Keep the group small. Study groups tend to work best when there are relatively few
participants, usually somewhere between two and five people. Groups that are too
large are less efficient and more easily distracted.
____ Consider the composition of the group. Close friends do not necessarily make the
best study partners. All members should be committed to the success of the group.
Think about students who are interested in the material, willing to ask questions, and
are prepared and well organized for class.
____ Consider, too, how much flexibility members have in their schedules. Students with
many commitments may have trouble accommodating the study group sessions.Where?
____ Select locations with minimal distractions, where conditions allow for discussions.
____ Provide seating that is comfortable, preferably with a table for notes and books.
____ Some libraries have specific rooms for this purpose.
____ Turn off your cell phones.
____ Remember that this is a working group, not a potluck. By all means, bring something to
drink or eat if you need to; just don’t make socializing the focus of the group.When?
____ Plan for sessions to last two to three hours. Any longer and students will lose focus
and be more likely to become distracted. Much shorter, and it will be difficult to
cover material with any degree of depth.
____ If possible, try to plan study sessions for the same day and time. A regular schedule
will help the group remember to meet and make it seem more of a commitment, like
a class. It also gives members time to prepare in advance.How?
____ For maximum efficiency, have a defined goal or purpose for each session, and ensure
that it is clearly communicated to each member in advance. Assign each member
specific tasks or responsibilities before meeting. These could include chapters, eras, or
historical themes. By doing so, you increase the participation of all members.
____ Consider assigning a member to be the facilitator, responsible for managing the time
and keeping members focused.02_Bartolini_Ch02_007-012.indd 11 12/04/18 11:49 AM