Study Groups vs. Solo Study: Finding Your Learning Style

Should you study alone or join a study group? It's one of the most common questions exam candidates ask—and the answer isn't one-size-fits-all. Your learning style, personality, and exam type all play a role. Here's how to determine which approach works best for you.

The Case for Solo Study

Advantages

1. Complete Control

• Study at your own pace
• Focus on your weak areas
• No waiting for others to catch up
• Flexible schedule (study when you're most productive)

2. Maximum Efficiency

• No time wasted on topics you already know
• No social distractions
• Direct path from question to answer
• Can skip or speed through familiar material

3. Deep Focus

• Uninterrupted concentration
• Enter flow state more easily
• No group dynamics to manage
• Ideal for introverts

4. Personalized Approach

• Use methods that work for you
• No compromise on study techniques
• Adapt strategy as needed

Disadvantages

1. No Accountability

• Easy to procrastinate
• No one to keep you on track
• Can skip difficult topics

2. Limited Perspectives

• Miss alternative explanations
• No one to challenge your understanding
• Harder to identify blind spots

3. Isolation

• Can feel lonely and overwhelming
• No emotional support
• Miss camaraderie and motivation

4. Knowledge Gaps

• May misunderstand concepts without realizing it
• No one to ask for clarification
• Harder to gauge your progress relative to others

The Case for Study Groups

Advantages

1. Accountability and Motivation

• Scheduled meetings keep you on track
• Social pressure to prepare
• Shared struggle builds motivation
• Less likely to procrastinate

2. Multiple Perspectives

• Learn from others' insights
• Different explanations for same concept
• Discover new study techniques
• Fill knowledge gaps

3. Active Learning

• Teaching others reinforces your knowledge
• Discussing concepts deepens understanding
• Debate clarifies ambiguities
• Collaborative problem-solving

4. Emotional Support

• Shared experience reduces stress
• Encouragement during difficult times
• Celebrate milestones together
• Combat isolation

Disadvantages

1. Time Inefficiency

• Spend time on topics you already know
• Wait for others to catch up
• Social chat eats into study time
• Scheduling challenges

2. Distraction Risk

• Off-topic conversations
• Group dynamics and conflicts
• Unequal participation
• Social anxiety for some

3. Pace Mismatch

• Too fast or too slow for your needs
• Can't skip familiar material
• May not cover your weak areas

4. Free-Rider Problem

• Some members don't prepare
• Unequal contribution
• Can breed resentment

Finding Your Learning Style

You're Likely a Solo Studier If:

• You're introverted and energized by alone time
• You have a clear, self-directed study plan
• You're highly self-motivated
• You prefer deep, uninterrupted focus
• You learn best by reading and self-testing
• You have an irregular schedule
• You're ahead of or behind the typical pace

You're Likely a Group Studier If:

• You're extroverted and energized by social interaction
• You need external accountability
• You learn best by discussing and teaching
• You struggle with motivation alone
• You benefit from multiple perspectives
• You have a consistent schedule
• You're at a similar pace to peers

The Hybrid Approach (Best of Both Worlds)

Most successful candidates use a combination:

80/20 Rule:

• 80% solo study (learning, practice questions, review)
• 20% group study (discussion, teaching, accountability)

How to Implement:

Solo Study (Daily):

• Morning: Individual learning and practice
• Afternoon: Practice questions and review
• Evening: Flashcards and light review

Group Study (Weekly):

• Once per week: 2-3 hour group session
• Focus: Difficult topics, practice problems, teaching each other
• Structure: Agenda-driven, time-boxed discussions

How to Run an Effective Study Group

1. Keep It Small (3-5 People)

Why: Small groups allow everyone to participate without becoming unwieldy

Ideal Size: 4 people (enough diversity, not too many voices)

2. Set Clear Ground Rules

Essential Rules:

• Everyone must prepare in advance
• Start and end on time
• Stay on topic (no excessive socializing)
• Equal participation required
• Respect different learning paces

3. Create a Structured Agenda

Sample 2-Hour Session:

• 0:00-0:10: Check-in, review agenda
• 0:10-0:40: Topic 1 discussion
• 0:40-1:10: Topic 2 discussion
• 1:10-1:40: Practice problems together
• 1:40-2:00: Quiz each other, wrap-up

4. Rotate Roles

Roles to Rotate:

• Facilitator: Keeps group on track
• Timekeeper: Manages agenda timing
• Note-taker: Captures key insights
• Question-preparer: Brings practice questions

5. Use Active Learning Techniques

Effective Group Activities:

• Teach-back (each person teaches a concept)
• Practice problem competitions
• Mock oral exams
• Debate controversial topics
• Group flashcard review

Exam-Specific Recommendations

Bar Exam

Recommendation: Hybrid (80% solo, 20% group)

Solo: MBE practice, essay writing, outline review

Group: Essay workshops, performance test practice, difficult topics

CPA Exam

Recommendation: Primarily solo with optional group

Why: Self-paced, section-by-section format favors individual study

Group Use: Simulation practice, difficult topics (consolidations, gov't accounting)

CFA Exam

Recommendation: Hybrid (70% solo, 30% group)

Solo: Reading, practice questions, formula memorization

Group: Ethics discussions, vignette practice, formula review

PMP Exam

Recommendation: Group-friendly (60% solo, 40% group)

Why: Scenario-based questions benefit from discussion

Group Use: Process discussions, situational questions, Agile concepts

Virtual vs. In-Person Study Groups

Virtual Study Groups

Advantages:

• No commute time
• Easier scheduling
• Access to wider talent pool
• Screen sharing for documents

Disadvantages:

• More distractions at home
• Technical issues
• Less personal connection
• Harder to read body language

Best Platforms: Zoom, Google Meet, Discord

In-Person Study Groups

Advantages:

• Stronger accountability
• Better focus (dedicated space)
• Easier collaboration
• Social bonding

Disadvantages:

• Commute time
• Scheduling challenges
• Location constraints
• Weather/health concerns

Best Locations: Libraries, coffee shops, study rooms

Red Flags: When to Leave a Study Group

• Consistent lack of preparation by members
• More socializing than studying
• Negative or competitive atmosphere
• Pace doesn't match your needs
• Scheduling conflicts become frequent
• Your scores are declining
• You dread attending

Remember: It's okay to leave a group that isn't working. Your exam success comes first.

The Bottom Line

There's no "right" answer—only what works for you. Most successful candidates use a hybrid approach:

• Solo study for deep learning and practice
• Group study for accountability and difficult topics
• Adjust the ratio based on your personality and needs

Action Steps:

1. Assess your learning style honestly
2. Try both solo and group study
3. Find the ratio that works for you
4. Set clear boundaries and expectations
5. Adjust as needed throughout your prep

The best study method is the one that helps you pass.

Whether you study solo or in a group, The Owl Press Study Guides provide the foundation for success across Bar, CPA, CFA, and PMP exams.

About the Author: Based on research and interviews with hundreds of successful exam candidates across multiple certifications.