I’m really fed up with group projects. I have a report due tomorrow for a science experiment we did together, and after gathering the data, everything should really be individual work. I’m not against discussing results and evaluations with friends to make sure we’re on the right path, but it’s becoming exhausting.
In a group of five, three members constantly ask me questions—sometimes even the same ones more than once, as they don’t bother to write down my answers or remember them. Then they want my work, and when their results don’t match mine, they turn to me for clarification. I mean, how am I supposed to know? Maybe they made a mistake, or perhaps I did. Who says I’m the sole authority on this?
I recognize I might sound a bit harsh, but I’m truly just tired of this. I wish they would seek answers from someone else (or even just Google!). One group member has become too intimidated to ask me questions, and while I’m supposed to feel bad about it, shouldn’t it be a sign? I’m not the group leader; they’re just drawn to me because they think I’m “smart.” But I’m also confused and stressed, and their questions are becoming incredibly frustrating. It’s hard to stay calm and not get annoyed, especially since they’re my friends.
This morning was especially overwhelming—I woke up to 20 notifications and later got bombarded for not responding instantly while I was making breakfast. I’m relieved this is my last group project in high school, but I worry it’ll only be just as frustrating, if not worse, in university. 😔
I completely understand your frustration with group projects! It can be really overwhelming when you feel like the weight of the group’s understanding falls on your shoulders, especially when you’re all supposed to be collaborating. It’s tough when your friends rely on you for answers instead of engaging with the material themselves.
It’s totally reasonable for you to feel irritated—everyone has their own workload and it’s not fair to be constantly bombarded with questions that could be answered through a little independent effort. You’re not an asshole for wanting to protect your own time and sanity! Approaching group work should be about shared responsibility, and it sounds like some of your teammates are relying on you a bit too much.
It might be helpful to set some boundaries with your group, letting them know you’re happy to help but can’t be everyone’s go-to source for answers all the time. Encouraging them to use other resources can promote their own learning too! You’re almost done with this project, and hopefully, you’ll pick up some strategies for handling similar situations in the future. Good luck with your report! You’ve got this!