Staying Organized for Back to School
Staying organized for school is crucial for managing your time effectively and reducing stress. Here are some tips to help you stay organized:
Use a Planner or Digital Calendar
Whether you prefer a physical planner or a digital calendar app, use it to keep track of assignments, exams, project deadlines, and other important dates. I personally use an appointment planner, because it allows me to schedule my entire day in 15-minute intervals. Here is a link to my current planner.
Create a Study Schedule
Plan out your study sessions in advance. Allocate specific times for each subject and stick to your schedule as closely as possible. I use my appointment planner to physically block out time periods to complete specific tasks.
Set Goals
Break down larger goals, like completing a project or studying for an exam, into smaller, manageable tasks. This makes it easier to track your progress and stay motivated. I like to set monthly goals, weekly goals and daily goals.
Prioritize Tasks
Identify the most important and time-sensitive tasks each day. Focus on completing these tasks first before moving on to less urgent ones. In the morning, I make my daily list of things I need, or would like, to get done. Then, I number my top three to five tasks in order of their importance. I focus on my number one task before moving to my number two task.
Use To-Do Lists
Not only should you have a daily to-do list, it is also helpful to make a weekly and a monthly to-do list. This helps you visually see what needs to be done and provides a sense of accomplishment as you check off tasks. Side note: If I complete a task that isn’t on my list, I write it down so I get the satisfaction of crossing something off my list.
Keep a Clean Workspace
Organize your study area by decluttering and keeping only the essentials on your desk. A clean workspace can improve your focus and productivity. I know how distracted I get when I can see other things out.
Use Folders and Binders
Keep your class notes, assignments and materials organized by using separate folders or binders for each subject. Label each one, and, of course, use fun colors!!
Digital Organization
Organize your digital files by creating folders on your computer or cloud storage for each subject. Rename files with clear and descriptive names. With photography, and the thousands of photos I have, this is a huge priority of mine. I have several external hard drives all organized and labeled.
Eliminate Distractions
Minimize distractions while studying by turning off notifications, putting your phone on silent, and using website blockers if needed. DO NOT DISTURB is my favorite setting on my phone!
Review Regularly
Spend a few minutes each day reviewing your calendar, to-do list, and upcoming assignments to ensure you're on track.
Utilize Reminders
Set reminders for important tasks, deadlines, and study sessions to ensure you don't forget anything.
Take Breaks
Incorporate short breaks into your study sessions to recharge and prevent burnout. Use techniques like the Pomodoro technique (25 minutes of focused work followed by a 5-minute break). Write it down in your calendar so it is scheduled.
Color Coding
Use different colors for subjects, tasks, and priorities in your planner or notes. This visual organization can make information easier to process. I swear my life is color coded. These are some of my favorite pens, folders and binders.
Sync Devices
If you use multiple devices, ensure that your calendar and other organization tools are synced across all devices for seamless access.
Reflect and Adjust
Regularly assess your organization strategies and adjust them if needed. What works best for you might evolve over time.
Remember that staying organized is a skill that takes practice. Experiment with different techniques and find what suits your learning style and preferences. Consistency is key, so make staying organized a daily habit to achieve academic success while reducing stress. high school senior portrait session is a great opportunity to capture special moments and memories that you can cherish for years to come. Figuring out what to wear can be really exciting and a bit stressful.
To schedule a high school senior photography session, or any other session, click below to book a pre-booking consult! There’s no commitment, pressure or obligation.