Organization Skills for College

Weekly planners keep important dates and assignments in one place.

Clutter and forgetfulness increase stress and have damaging effects on student grades. Getting organized increases grades and time management skills. It also provides life long organizational skills. There are multiple easy ways to get organized. Being organized is as simple as writing down due dates and homework assignments.

Reduce Clutter

Organizing work spaces increases time management.

Reducing clutter helps you stay organized by having everything in one place. Put pens and pencils in a pencil holder. Try keeping loose paper in a separate drawer. Keep a labeled folder for handouts and notes from each class. On the computer, keep everything in separate folders. For example, instead of having one homework folder, have one for each class.

Write it Down

Create a to-do list to keep track of daily goals.

Keep a pocket calendar full of important due dates. Your calendar should include a section for notes that can explain important dates that do not fit in each day box. To keep homework assignments in one place, write them in a notepad specifically for homework assignments. Try keeping a to-do list, as well. Create a list each morning of things to be completed.

Color Coding

Color coding is a good way to stay organized.

Color code notes and assignment by class; if economics is coded blue, have a blue folder or binder just for economics. Get a desktop organizer or expanding file and label the tabs by color to keep handouts that may be needed later. Color code notes by topic with highlighters to help keep them organized.

Three Ring Binders

Three ring binders keep important papers in one place.

Three ring binders are essential to organization. Use a different binder for each class each semester. Binders can be color coded or labeled by class. Divide the binder into different sections for notes, handouts and homework. Using pocket folders will also help keep the binders organized. Keep a hole punch handy so printed notes can be added with ease.

References

• College Organization - Organizing Academia
• KU Counseling and Psychological Services: 10 Steps to Organization at College
• Muskingum College - Center for Advancement and Learning