TEN STEPS TO SURVIVING GROUP PROJECTS

Written by: Kanita Tariq 

“You’ll need to work with a group for this,” your teacher says. Half the class cheers, half the class groans. No matter how you feel about group projects, they can be quite cumbersome. Here are some of the most important steps to follow in order to work successfully with a group.

1. CHOOSE YOUR PARTNERS WISELY. You may desperately want to work with your best friend, but if you know they’re not the most cooperative, you may want to reconsider. Work with a group you know you’ll be able to do well with.
2. BE PREPARED TO COMPROMISE. In a group full of a bunch of different perspectives, there are bound to be some clashes of thought. Sometimes, it’s better to agree on an idea that works for everyone.
3. Compromise is important, but if you feel you don’t have a say in your group, DON’T BE AFRAID TO VOICE YOUR CONCERN. It’s important to work together, but your opinion is valued just as much as everyone else’s! If that means you have to step up and take the reigns, so be it.
4. PUT A LITTLE BIT OF EFFORT IN EVERYDAY. Many people are guilty of leaving things to the last minute, but it’s always better to plan your time. Not everyone can be available at once, so it’s important to be in a good place before the deadline.
5. BE CONSIDERATE. When a group member’s in a tough spot, volunteer to help them out. It’s helping you too, and it feels good doing a good deed.
6. MAKE SURE EVERYONE IS DOING THEIR FAIR SHARE. The purpose of group projects are to incorporate each individual’s input into one assignment. Don’t let anyone feel left out. Their opinion is valuable too.
7. AVOID DRAMA AS MUCH AS YOU CAN. Arguments are no fun. Try to solve a conflict as soon as you can, so it doesn’t hold back your progress.
8. COMMUNICATE. Make sure everyone’s on the same page, or things can go horribly wrong. Don't risk a good grade over what can be avoided - just clarify who would follow the characterization of Siobhan as the novel progresses. Make a group chat. Do what you must.
9. BE CRITICAL. You want to do the best you can, and it’s important to understand your weaknesses so you can fix them.
10. HAVE FUN! Working in a group can be one of the most rewarding experiences, as long as you have an open-mind.