Since we are fresh into the new year, that means a new semester with new classes! While you are finalizing your resolutions for the new year, try adding "to have an organized and headache free semester" to the list. To some of you, this will seem like second nature, but to others it will seem like a chore. Lucky for you ladies (and guys-- no judgement here), I have a few fool-proof organization tools to help you ace this semester!
1. Create a system for organizing your classes
For me, organizing my classes by color makes a world of a difference. Everything that has anything to do with a specific class, is coded with a certain color. For example, my Advertising class is orange in my agenda, so I will use orange to color code EVERYTHING. Whatever type of notebook I choose to hold all of my stuff for the class (binder, folder, spiral, etc.) will of course be orange and make it super easy to pick out of a pile of all of my school supplies. I will also use orange highlighters, page flags, sticky notes, and whatever else comes my way. The bottom line: stick to a color and I promise it will change your life (kinda..).
2. Input all of your assignments into your agenda ASAP
The moment you get your syllabus, write down every single due date, reading, and assignment that is listed into your agenda (in the corresponding color to the class, of course). By doing this, you are
1. writing it down, which is proven to help aid in memory
2. making life easier by already having it written down for when you make plans, schedule stuff, etc.
3. Make an assignment spreadsheet
Okay y'all, this one takes a while, but it's worth it in the end. Spreadsheets are my life, so obviously I had to make one for my school assignments (duh). You can customize the spreadsheet as much or as little as you like. For mine, I color coded all of my class titles and highlighted major assignments like tests, oral exams, or writing assignments. The perk to making an assignment spreadsheet is that you have all of your class assignments on one sheet of paper so you can easily see conflicts with your schedule or when your tests all fall on the same week, or day (it happens, and it sucks).
4. Start homework as soon as you get it
Trust me, I am the queen of procrastination. I used to not do my homework until the last possible second. That is all changing in 2016 ladies and gentleman. Start your chapter outlines and online assignments early so you don't have to worry about them at midnight the day before class.
5. Make a study schedule that works for you
It's been proven that setting out a certain time every day in your normal routine to study gets your brain into study mode, which is the most effective way to study/do homework. Find a time and spot to go to everyday between your classes and get as much done as possible!
By implementing these organization strategies into the new semester, I promise that it will be a breeze.
What are some of your favorite organization strategies for school? Let me know in the comments or send me an email!
