Learning at MIT is not about memorizing formulas, but understanding how to use them. Professors aren’t as concerned about if an experiment didn’t work, but rather if you understand why it didn’t work. It’s not uncommon for exams at MIT to be open book; we don’t want to test rote memorization, but rather if you truly understand the metrial.
MIT is dedicated to collaboration: problem sets (psets) are typically completed in groups, and the first year is graded on a pass/no record system. While your peer network is a great source for support, MIT students can speak with Student Support Services (S^3) if they’re having issues with their workload, need to develop time management skills, or are facing challenges that are getting in the way of their schoolwork.