This blog was written by our semester interns, Akshad and Aryendu.
Group assignments: they’re either a dream team experience or a total headache. Between ghosting group members, last-minute scrambles and that one person who mysteriously disappears, it’s easy to feel like you’re managing chaos. But don’t stress, here’s your go-to guide to survive (and maybe even thrive) in your next group project.
🔥 Set the ground rules early
Before anyone starts typing, lay down the basics:
✅ How often you’ll meet (in person or online)
✅ Who’s doing what – no guessing games
✅ Mini deadlines – aim for progress check-ins before the actual due date
Getting this sorted upfront keeps everyone accountable and avoids last-minute panic.
💬 Communicate like a pro
Silence = disaster. Set up a group chat (WhatsApp, Messenger – whatever works) and use Google Docs or Notion to track progress. If someone’s quiet or falling behind, check in early and ask “Need any help with your part?” This better than a passive-aggressive message the night before submission.
🎯 Play to each other’s strengths
Not everyone’s a research wiz or a presentation pro, and that’s okay! Let the design-savvy teammate handle the slides, the strong writer tackle analysis, and the confident speaker take the lead in presenting. Work smarter, not harder!
⏳ The ‘Do it later’ trap (don’t fall for it)
Thinking you have more time than you do is a classic mistake. Assume delays will happen (because they will). Aim to finish a day early for edits, future you will thank you when you’re not panic-uploading at 11.58 pm.
🧘 Group drama? Stay cool
Someone ghosting? Not pulling their weight? Handle it calmly and respectfully:
Instead of saying:
❌ “You’re not doing anything, and we’re all annoyed.”
You can say:
✅ “Hey, we’re falling behind. Can you update us on where you’re at?”
Still stuck? Talk to your tutor early — don’t wait until the last minute.
📂 Use tools that make life easier
Skip the endless email threads. These apps are lifesavers:
📌 Google Docs – Real-time edits without the confusion
📌 Trello/Notion – Track progress and stay organized
📌 Canva – For slides that look good
🎉 Celebrate the win (seriously)
You made it! Take a moment to appreciate the effort, whether it’s a group coffee run or a Netflix binge. Group work might not always be easy, but learning to collaborate is a skill you’ll flex long after uni.