From the FAR group and also the REG group I saw the following happen which just made the whole study process awesome.
1. Learning to Identify which people in the study group are strong in specific chapters. Example there will be a few strong in Individual tax and some in Corps while the rest are great at Partnerships.
2. If you are strong in specfic areas – help the others better understand it.. In return others will help you in your weak areas.
3. Be proactive in your study group. Talk more about the study material and less on your personal obstacles.
4. Have one person that does a roll call on when everyone is taking their exams so everyone is aware of each others time line and those that are taking the exam close to each other can be on the same page when preparing for the review.
5. Ask questions on areas you are not understanding. someone will explain
6. When you attempt to explain don't just copy paste text book answer.. Try to answer it in your own words. This is how you really benefit as you are reinforcing the concept for your self and you are explaining to the other in “SIMPLE” words so they will better understand the concept as well.
PS give real life examples where ever possible.
7. Do quiz sessions- pretty much like doing flashcards but instead of doing it along, its with a group.
8. Motivate each other to study, set goals on what you are going to accomplish
Lastly – ensure you also spend time studying alone and building your foundation. You need to invest in yourself as no one else is going to do it for you. So use the online study group but don't spend hours and hours there. Balance things out to maximize your smart studying.
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