3 Tips for Staying Organized
Organization isn’t always a skill that comes naturally. Being organized can be pretty difficult, especially when there’s so many other things to worry about, like homework, tests and extracurriculars, but organization is crucial to success in an academic environment, and anyone can do it with a little focus and determination.
Keep a Detailed Planner
If you typically just throw your school planner away after the first week of school because you know you’ll never use it, it’s time to find a new one. Even if you say it’s never worked for you in the past or you don’t think you can keep up with it, give it another shot! If a paper planner isn’t your thing, you can use your smartphone as an alternative to do the same thing. At the beginning of each week or month, write down all of your classes and the requirements of each (test dates, homework due dates, etc.). Then, mark any other obligations you have (field trips, soccer practice, rehearsal, mom’s birthday, etc.) Third, with the rest of the open space you have, figure out when would be the best time for studying and homework, and block out time to exclusively work on stuff for school. In these blocks of time, jot down what you should be working on in order to meet deadlines and stay ahead. That way, you know exactly when you should be studying and exactly what you should be working on. Once you get used to using the planner and following your own schedule, it’ll feel like second nature. This will prevent you from forgetting about assignments, turning in late work or letting tomorrow's math test slip your mind. With a detailed planner and a schedule you’re committed to following, you’ll see how fast your grades can improve.
Use Binders or Folders
Many students shove important papers and books into their backpack with reckless abandon, usually with the notion that they’ll fix it later. Unfortunately, later never seems to come. To avoid this mess, decide if binders or folders will work best for you, and get one for each class you’re taking. Have a place to put graded tests, upcoming assignments, completed assignments and handouts. It will be so easy to find everything and you’ll never have to scramble looking for that one piece of homework you swear you did last night. With your binders (or folders) you won’t run into any issues with keeping track of your stuff.
Clean Up Your Study Space
If you don’t already have one at home, find a nice, comfortable place to turn into a dedicated study and homework area. Keep it clean and stocked with pens, pencils, paper, etc., along with any necessary textbooks. Have some snacks nearby and get settled in. If you struggle with cleanliness as well, set aside time before you start working to tidy up a bit. A clean, organized space will allow you to stay calm while you’re studying. This will help you stay focused and avoid unwelcome distractions.
Organized, but still looking for ways to do better in school? Contact Revolution Tutors today for more information about our services.