Group Study vs Solo Study: What Works Better in College?

Introduction

In college life, one question always lingers in the minds of students – is it better to study in a group or alone? This is a common confusion and the answer to it can be different for everyone. In 2025, when online classes, AI tools and hybrid learning have become common, it has become necessary that we understand both these methods of study from a new perspective.

Every student has a different style of studying. Others can only learn by sharing a space with fellow students, while some are quiet and alone for deeper understanding. The real question now is, which one works best for you?

1. Depth and impact of learning

(a) Group study – the power of learning together

When we study in a group, a kind of “collective understanding” is formed. That is, things that seem difficult to understand alone can be solved together. Gradually, a way of understanding each other’s thinking is formed and our grip on the subjects becomes stronger.

Example: In subjects like Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths, group study reduced the failure rate of students from 32% to 21%. Their scores also increased by about 6%. This proves that studying together gives effective results.

In PLTL (Peer Led Team Learning), a good student leads the rest of the students, so that the whole group learns more deeply.

(b) Solo study – focus and self-reflection

When you study alone, there is less chance of distraction. You can study at your own pace, pause where needed.

Example: A study found that students who studied alone improved their pre-test and post-test scores by 17%, while those who studied in pairs improved their scores by 28%.

Solo study also develops important qualities like self-control, discipline and time management.

2. Advantages and disadvantages of both methods

Advantages of group study:

• Direct feedback and knowledge sharing: When we explain something to someone, they also understand it deeply.
• Motivation and responsibility: Studying in a group maintains continuity in studies.
• Diversity of ideas: Every student brings his own unique thinking, which further increases the understanding of the subject.
• Development of social skills: Skills like conversation, teamwork and leadership are developed.

Disadvantages of group study:

• Collective laziness: Some students can avoid studying by relying on the group.
• Distraction: It is common for the topic of conversation to change.
• Time coordination: Everyone’s time and pace can be different.
• Groupthink: If everyone starts thinking the same, then there is a lack of new ideas.

Advantages of solo study:

• Less distraction: The environment is calmer when studying alone.
• Learning at your own pace: You can spend time wherever you want.
• Control over studies: You can study from flashcards, charts or apps.
• Self-reliance and self-awareness: Learn to evaluate yourself.

Disadvantages of solo study:

• Loneliness: There is a lack of feedback or communication.
• Lack of motivation: Studying alone can make you bored quickly.
• Single perspective: There is less chance to be exposed to new ideas or methods.

3. What did research reveal in 2025?

Hybrid and two-stage model

A 2025 study found that if students first study alone and then discuss in a group, their marks are better and they are more satisfied.

Small groups are more effective

Small groups of 3 to 6 students are considered the best, because everyone is able to participate in them and responsibility is also fixed.

Importance of inclusive grouping

A 2022 study showed that if the background and abilities of the students are taken into account while forming groups, then even average students get better results.

4. How to make a good study plan?

Choose the method according to the task:

• Solo: When you need to understand deeply, like in math or article writing.
• Group: For debates, case studies or discussions.

Mixed plan:

First read alone, then discuss in a group, and finally revise alone again.

Make a small and organized group:

Have a group of 3–6 people. Give each person a responsibility – like timekeeper, leader, etc.

Prepare first, then hold a meeting:

Read the topic before meeting with the group, so that the discussion deepens.

Take a dual approach for exam preparation:

First solve alone, then review in a group.

5. Technology and cultural changes in 2025

AI and digital assistance

Now with AI, you can create personal quizzes for yourself, get memorization tips and also get feedback. Online group study has also become more interactive now.

The Rise of Learning Communities

Colleges are now creating “living study communities” where students learn to live, study and learn together. This also builds confidence.

Conclusion: Which method to adopt?

It is clear that both group study and solo study have their own benefits. A balanced use of both is most effective.

Solo study: Helps in focus, self-control and in-depth understanding.

Group study: Useful for communication, teamwork and quick revision.

New technology and the two-stage model have made the study experience even better. The most important thing is to choose the method according to your style, goals and resources.

If you understand yourself, experiment and adopt changes, you can do better in every subject – be it engineering or social science.