Group projects...we've all been there. We have all dealt with a group project in which one person takes over the leadership role, one person does all the work, and then the rest just kind of take credit for everyone else's work. Here are a couple of hopefully helpful tips to surviving group projects no matter how much we may dread them.

1. Make sure everyone understands the project and all of its components. If everyone is clear on the assignment then the work will be done more efficiently.

2. If someone is being difficult or is not trying to work with the rest of the group, don’t be afraid to say something. Remind everyone in the group that this is a collective effort and the work you put in will reflect your final grade. Everyone wants the “A” right?

3. Determine everybody’s strengths and use them for the advantage of the group. If one person is artistic, then maybe have him or her come up with drawing samples for the assignment. Everybody is talented at something and those talents put together could create something great!

4. Don’t immediately try to take control of the whole project. This may come off as controlling to the other members of the group and could create problems.

5. Divide the work up evenly. By doing this, there will be no petty arguments on whether or no someone is doing more than their share for the project.

6. Be open to different ideas. Brainstorming and putting ideas together can lead to great project with lots of different components, which will hopefully impress your peers and professors.

7. Establish communication within your group. Communication is key in group projects. Communicating will keep everyone in the loop and will make sure that no important details are left out of the project.

8. Be responsible and keep up with the parts assigned to you. As much as you expect everyone else to hold up their end of the deal, hold yourself responsible for your part too. Keep up with the group and meet the due dates.

Hopefully these tips will help when dealing with the people in your group project, and have the group come together to get that "A" we're all so desperately craving. After all, if everyone puts in a little bit of work, the end result can be something wonderful.