Personal Organization

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Study Skill 4.2 Personal Organization

 

Introduction

“Organization is what you do before you do something, so that
when you do it, it’s not all mixed up.” — A. A. Milne

For some of us, organizing our folders, our locker, our desk, and our room comes easily. But — and answer honestly here — are you the type of person who lives in constant clutter? If you've experienced any of the following events, you may have to admit that you, my friend, are disorganized:

  1. Does your backpack contain papers and notes from last year's classes?
  2. Is your backpack like a black hole: whatever goes in it may never be seen again?
  3. Do you ever forget your homework or assignments at home?

If you answered yes to any of these questions, then there's a good chance you are disorganized. There's no shame in it. After all, the first step to fixing this problem is admitting that you even have a problem.

Watch

Key Ideas

  • Build a system that means you can always find files immediately, and never be without homework and projects.
  • The video sets out some tips:
    • Use a cloud storage system;
    • Create a tree structure for folders and files;
    • Be vigilant about your system;
    • Try an online note-taking system;
    • Divide up your notebook by topic and use folders to archive old notes.

Apply

  • Get tidying: Choose one of the categories listed above and take some time right now to organize it. Choose from the locker, backpack, notebook or folder.
  • Research: Look into both Dropbox and Google Drive and decide which you prefer. Create an account and set up an organizational system.
  • Create: Set up an integrated system that works between your written/online notes and online files. Start out thinking about what subjects you study, how many lessons/units there are and then plan ahead. Use the tips from the video.