How to Run a Weekly Study Group

A study group works best when it meets at the same time every week and everyone shows up knowing what you're covering. Here's how to set one up.

1. Keep the group small

A small group of people in the same course is easier to schedule and gives everyone a turn to explain a problem. If more people want in, split into two groups.

2. Collect availability for one typical week

Class schedules repeat weekly, so one normal week tells you most of what you need. FreeAvail events cover a real date range, not a generic "days of the week" poll, so create an event for the dates of an upcoming regular week (skip holidays and exam weeks). Share the link and have everyone mark when they're free.

Create a free event

3. Choose a regular slot

Look at the group view and pick the window where the most people are free. Prefer a slot that isn't right before a big deadline for another class. Then treat it like a class: same time, same place, every week.

4. Give every session a plan

Decide at the end of each session what the next one covers: a problem set, a chapter, or a practice exam. Rotate who leads. People are much more likely to show up when they know exactly why.

5. Re-check before exams

Schedules shift around midterms and finals. For extra review sessions, send a new link with the dates before the exam instead of guessing. People can also update their availability on an existing event anytime.

Running a whole club instead? See how to find a club meeting time.

New to FreeAvail? See how it compares on our free When2meet alternative page, or create a free event now.