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The do's and don'ts of studying with a buddy

Sick of studying solo? Want to partner up? Here’s how to get your work done—and have fun at the same time.

Do work with someone new. A study sesh is a great way to get to know a new acquaintance. Pick someone you’ve worked with before, perhaps in a larger group, who you’d like to befriend. Then, be your usual fabulous (and totally brilliant) self.

Don’t pick your BFF just ‘cause you two are tight. Maybe you guys have different methods. Maybe she’s lazy and you’re itchin’ to get your HW done. Your Saturday night sleepovers might be a blast, but sometimes besties just can’t work together on school stuff…and that’s A-OK.

Do take breaks. Homework doesn’t have to mean slaving away for hours on end. A 10-minute time-out for munchies every hour or two—away from the books—will help keep you fresh instead of frazzled.

Don’t be dependent. Whether you split the work up or do it together, don’t do anything less than your fair share of the labor. That means bringing your notes, textbooks and research materials home with you rather than poaching off your partner.

Do stow your phone. Texting up a storm while your study buddy is working her pencil to the nub is just plain unfair. And if you’re at the library, it’s not very courteous to those around you, either.

Don’t be afraid to look stupid. Working with a partner is about helping each other learn, not playing “I’m smarter than you.” Remember, there’s no such thing as a stupid question, so ask as many Q’s as you need to.

Do it again—but only if ya got something done. If you two were productive, make a standing study date one a week, every other week or before a test.

Do you like studying with a buddy, babes? Share your study secrets in the comments below!

by Brittany Taylor | 11/24/2017
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