Why organize?
In order to be successful at school, you MUST organize – so pull out your best Marie Kondo and get to work. Everyone will have a different preference and need when it comes to organization. Here are some tips and systems that can help you get and stay organized:
At the beginning of a semester, you need to decide on a calendar system to place all the assignment due dates and to know when quizzes and exams are coming up. These will come either as an online system or a physical system.
Online organizers
Many universities offer some type of calendar software or system that can be used as a calendar system. Many times it is linked to your email – explore this option and see if it works for you. Some other common systems that allow you to put in assignments and create due dates, reminders, etc. into a virtual space:
Google Calendar: Google Calendar syncs with a Gmail account. It allows you to create and edit events, set reminders, and share your calendar with others.
Apple Calendar (iOS): Apple Calendar is a built-in calendar app for Apple that syncs with your iCloud account. It allows you to create and edit events, set reminders, and view your calendar in different formats (day, week, month).
Outlook Calendar (Windows): Outlook Calendar is a calendar app that is included with the Microsoft Office Suite, available for Windows and other platforms. It allows you to create and edit events, set reminders, schedule appointments, and share your calendar with others.
Physical organizers
Sometimes it is nice to have something to carry with you (besides your phone or laptop) that you can refer to when needed.
Monthly calendar book: you can buy these in-person at an office supply store or online. They usually have full page calendars ang pages for more detailed information by week.
Bullet Journaling: This is a method of organization that involves using a blank notebook to create a custom calendar and to-do list. Bullet journaling allows for a lot of flexibility and customization, as you can create pages for whatever you need – and some people get really creative (check out Bullet Journaling ideas on Pinterest and you will get the idea!)
Planner Stickers: This system involves using stickers to decorate and organize a planner. You can use stickers to mark important dates and deadlines, create a color-coded system for different types of tasks, or even create custom stickers for specific tasks or projects.
Whiteboard or Dry Erase Calendar: This system uses a whiteboard or dry erase board to create a calendar that can be easily updated and changed as needed. This can be useful for tracking long-term projects, as you can easily see the progress of each task. This is a cost-effective option that can be re-used as long as you are in school. A con is that you cannot carry the calendar with you.
Wall Calendar: This is a traditional system that uses a large calendar that is displayed on a wall. You can use different colored pens or markers to indicate different types of events or tasks. Wall calendars are especially useful for people who like to see the whole month or year at a glance. Another one that cannot be transported with you.
Still wondering what system to use – here is a place to find ideas about how to use a physical planner—monthly, weekly, and daily. https://myclasstracker.com/blogs/news/5-easy-steps-to-master-your-planner
Experiment with different systems and find the one that works best for you and helps you stay organized and on top of your tasks and deadlines.