Organize + Manage Your Time

Gain control over your life by learning how to organize properly with these helpful organization tips.

Student Organization Tip #1: The Right School Tools

Here are some basic tools to get you organized. Feel free to mix and match these options to create a system that works for you:

3-Ring Binder

This is a must-have so you can store all the papers and folders you'll collect throughout the school year or semester. Use binder accessories to help manage your binder contents.

Tab Dividers help separate contents by creating different binder sections for each classSheet Protectors help shield important papers from the occasional rain shower or spillBinder Pockets/Pouches store smaller supplies (e.g. pencils, pens, highlighters, index cards, calculators, etc.) in convenient binder pockets.

Pre-punched or Snap-In Folders are a convenient way to keep track of homework, project instructions, permission slips and other loose paper.

Twin Pocket Folders

These are great for storing extra papers and keeping track of important information. Coordinating folder and binder colors will help you to find your paperwork faster.

Student Organization Tip #2: Calendar/Planner

A calendar can help provide a big-picture view of your classes (and lessen your chance of forgetting tasks). Avoid last-minute stress from rushing to complete another huge project again by writing reminders well in advance of the due date, so you can get a jumpstart. Calendars are also great to keep track of your extracurricular activities, doctor appointments, field trips and any other important dates.

Student Organization Tip #3: How to Organize

Papers, Notes, Files and More

There are several simple ways to organize your schoolwork - but feel free to tailor these ideas to fit your personal style (after all, there's no use setting up a system if you're not going to be able to stick with it).

Backpack Dump

Clean out your backpack. Dump everything out and go through each item one by one. Separate everything into a keep pile important papers and information you'll need to use now or to study for future tests - and a dump pile - things you no longer need, like old homework and last months sports schedules. Consider keeping papers in a three-ring binder or placing them in a two-pocket folder for future reference. You may also decide to file your notes and papers in a file folder and keep them at your desk for future use.

Color Code By Subject

Assign each subject its own color (think green for biology, red for math, blue for English, etc.), then make sure everything you buy for that subject is the right color. This is a great system because it cuts down on time spent looking for things, you'll be able to tell which binder or notebook is the right one with just a glance.

Bind It

Keep at least two binders (or one binder with two sections) for each class one to hold all of your important review handouts and notes, and another for all of your day-to-day class notes. When it comes time to study, you won't have to waste time searching for the handout or notes you need.

Avoid Confusion

Make sure you date your notes each day, and label whether you were taking notes in class or from the textbook. This makes it clear which notes need to be studied for any given test.

Highlighter 101

Only highlight the main ideas on a page. It's easy to go overboard and end up with full pages of highlighting, but that wont help when you go back to review your notes.

Memory Helper

Use index cards as flash cards to help you study. They're inexpensive, and will help you memorize theories and facts. Just write the question on the front side and the answer on the back.

Student Organization Tip #4: Planning Ahead Time Management

It is amazing how fast time can go by, keep the big picture in mind with a portable, wall or desktop calendar. At the beginning of the year (or when your teacher tells you there's a test coming up), mark all of your upcoming exams, dances, practices, games, etc. on the calendar. This not only helps you plan your schoolwork, it will actually let you organize your social life!

Helpful Hints

After a couple of weeks, you'll find that planning your time will become a habit and you will be setting yourself up for success in school. In the meantime, here are some additional tips for managing your time:

Make time to study and mark this time on your calendar! Doing so helps you avoid procrastination and stops you from double-booking yourself. But, when you're studying for any length of time, remember to reward yourself with five-minute breaks and small treats. Also, set reasonable goals for yourself. If you have four chapters to review for a test, aim to be done with two chapters in time to join friends for a walk or a snack.

Prioritize by always working on the most important assignments with the closest deadlines and setting aside time to work on longer-term projects.

Plan ahead by breaking down a large project into small tasks. Divide the project into several smaller steps so it doesn't appear so overwhelming. Be sure to jot down when you will work on these pieces in your calendar.

Use Weekly To-Do List in order to track smaller tasks. You can cross off finished items as the week progresses. Seeing all the crossed-out items is a visible reminder of your progress.

Use a Monthly To-Do List in order to track larger responsibilities, like research papers and finals. As with the weekly lists, crossing off items as you accomplish them is incredibly satisfying (and a great excuse to reward yourself with a small treat).

Remember, practice makes perfect! Don't forget, everyone needs a little organizational refresher every now and then. Have confidence you can reach your organization goal! Take pride in your accomplishments and pat yourself on the back. Before you know it, your teachers, parents and friends will notice and be impressed with the newly-organized you.