For those candidates who prefer to study in groups, we present several suggestions to maximize time and effectiveness:
- The size of the group is crucial to an effective study session. It can involve as few as two and as many as two dozen, but a more desirable number lies in the four to six range. This number gives members a relatively equal opportunity to give and receive individual attention. It also allows the group to carry on with the study session if one or two people are absent. Regardless of the size of the group, all members should be taking the CIA Exam at the same time period, and have the time and dedication to attend sessions on a regular basis.
- One person should act as Chair. He or she should supervise the session, making sure relevant topics are appropriately covered. The Chair should also promote equal speaking time among members.
- The Chair should assign a group member to write an agenda. The agenda must list and give details on which topics the group will cover during the session. The agenda may also assign members to provide a summary of a study unit and provide answers and explanations to selected questions.