Top Study Tip 3: Getting Organized for the School Year!
photo via istockphoto & KatarzynaBialasiewicz
School organization can begin at any point in the academic year—it's never too late or too early to implement an effective organizational system. A structured binder system combined with a dedicated study space dramatically improves academic performance and reduces stress.
Three-Ring Binder Organization Method:
Use 5-section dividers per subject: (1) Notes, (2) Homework, (3) Handouts, (4) Quizzes, (5) Tests
Dual binder system: Carry 1 large binder to school with current materials; maintain separate subject binders at home for archived work
Home storage: Keep individual subject binders organized on a designated shelf for easy access during study sessions
Always carry a pencil case: Despite laptop use, handwriting notes improves memory retention—keep pencils, pens, and highlighters accessible
Essential Study Space Setup:
Dedicated desk area: Establish a consistent homework and study location
Minimal clutter: Keep only current materials on desk surface
Distraction-free zone: Remove unnecessary items that compete for attention
Organized storage: Use shelves, drawers, or containers for binders and supplies
Why this system works: Physical organization creates mental clarity. The 5-section divider system ensures nothing gets lost, the dual-binder approach prevents backpack overload, and a clutter-free desk reduces cognitive overwhelm during studying.
USE A THREE-RING BINDER
We recommend using a 3 ring binder for your subjects. You can label the dividers and keep each class organized. We recommend dividing according to 1) Notes, 2) Homework, 3) Handouts, 4) Quizzes, 5) Tests.
ORGANIZE YOUR BINDERS BY SUBJECT
We recommend using 1 large binder to take to school. Then coming home and organize individual binders that you can keep at home for each subject.
CREATE A SHELF FOR YOUR NOTEBOOKS
You can keep your binders at home on a shelf.
PENCIL CASES
Keep a pencil case handy with you at all times. Although most of our schools have us use laptops, there is no substitute for handwriting our notes. It is essential to bring a pencil case with pencils and pens!
SET UP A DESK AREA
It’s critical to set up an organized desk with very little clutter and very few distractions.
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