Group projects – some of us love them, others hate them. This depends on whether you are that kind of person that you like to work with other people – or if you are the “loner” that likes to do things by themselves.

And considering that each student has their personality, these groups will always be formed by people with completely different ideas and expectations. Some types will not care, others will go crazy – which is why you need to learn how to spot and work with them.

There are countless personality types to consider – but when it comes to groups, here are the ones that you are most likely to encounter:

  • The M.I.A. Student

The “missing in action,” also known as the “invisible student,” is the one student that you know for sure that they are in your class – but only because your professor already confirmed it several times. In truth, actually, you never even saw this student – and most of the time, you even start doubting the fact that they actually exist.

There are times when the M.I.A. student will answer an e-mail or two – but they will never actually provide any useful information. They never attend meetings, and the only answers you get from them are very vague.

  • The Silent Student

Unlike the M.I.A. student, this one actually shows up at the meeting – but it’s like they’re never even there. They can be very shy and introverted – or they can be just lazy. If they’re not staring in awkward silence at the phone, they’re browsing the internet or texting in a corner.

This student never volunteers for anything or provides any valuable information. Every now and again, they will open their mouth to say something (most likely, coerced to), but they will just seem disinterested or vague.

  • The Procrastinator

This student is eager to take on projects, and they generally offer to take on certain tasks. However, when it comes to writing that checkup mail, they always fail to arrive. Eventually, they will come up with their part – but only at the last minute, after causing mild heart attacks to their group mates. These are also those guilty in you getting the GetAcademicHelp.net type of services whenever you try to find something online using your college network.

  • The Over-Promiser, but Under-Deliverer

This student likes to boast about their amazing skill, and they take on skills, saying that they will bring world-class results. They say that they have the best art skills, virtual graphic design abilities, or know an uncle that can lend them a professional camera – but most of the times, these students fail to deliver the way they promise.

In truth, these students only have good intentions – but they overestimate their ability to deliver, and only manage to get their group mates’ hopes up. And this can be very inconvenient if the group actually relies on their promise.

  • The Control Freak

This student will be very easy to recognize. They are the ones that will always try to stay in close contact with you, will call and text continuously, will send the emails, and will continuously try to take control over everything.

This person will have an outline ready for every part of the project – even if they are not supposed to have it. They get upset if you cannot attend the meeting and will always push you for information about where you are with your project. In their defense, this person cares about the project – but just a bit too much.

Final Thoughts

Were you the control freak in college – or were you the procrastinator? Granted, there are many types of students in groups – but these are the ones that tend to be present (or not) the most.