Organizing tips - we can all benefit from learning a few more. In order to excel academically you need to be organized. When it comes right down to it organizational skills may be just as important as reading, writing and arithmetic in becoming a well rounded, self-sufficient individual. What follows is a tried and true collection of organizing tips as well as some helpful time management ideas. Rise and shine at the same time every morning. Having a consistent bedtime will help you feel refreshed when it’s time to rise in the morning. It’s wise to set your alarm with extra time to spare. If you’re having trouble getting up move your alarm clock across the room so you’ll have no choice but to get out of bed to turn it off. Lay out your clothes in advance. Listening to a weather forecast and taking a few minutes to prepare your wardrobe for the following day will save you a ton of time in the morning. Include accessories and footwear in your preparations. Use an organizer. If you’ve got a student planner or agenda use it. Organizers that come complete with pocket folders, dividers and planning calendars are ideal. Jot things down as soon as you think of them. One calendar schedules it all. Plan all your school and personal activities using one calendar and one calendar only. That said if your family uses a ‘master calendar’ for scheduling everyone’s activities you should share your activity dates and times on a need to know basis. Compile a ‘to do’ list. It’s amazing the difference a list can make when it comes to accomplishing things. Chances are you’ll find yourself more productive and more in control of your time. Create a study zone. When it comes to when and where is best to do homework each teen is different. As long as you have a quiet, well-lit homework space you should have no problem studying. Don’t make your study area too comfortable. Many a student studying on their bed or laying in a comfy chair has fallen asleep. Keep a balanced schedule. While you may be tempted to sign up for every extra curricular activity that sparks your interest, think twice. Taking on too much can really affect your grades and your social life. Look at your course load and how much studying is involved. Then prioritize your recreational interests. Only sign up for as many activities as you honestly feel you can manage. Create a study plan. Homework can easy get away from you if you don’t have a plan. Realistically determine how many study hours you’ll need to invest in each course. The way to good grades is through consistency. Create a daily homework routine and stick too it. Last minute cramming is unnecessary when you have a study plan in place. For major tests that require hours of preparation you may need to schedule in blocks of study time over several days. If you need help, ask for it. Don’t stress over a lesson or assignment you don’t understand. Seek help before you end up totally confused and frustrated. If your teacher is unavailable seek the help of a peer or parent.
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