LIFE

Everyone seems to have everything planned at the beginning of the school year. It’s easy to keep a journal, turn everything in on time and keep up with due dates. But, when the semester starts to come to an end, deadlines start to pile up and you might not be as organized as you were a few months ago. The end of the semester means submitting projects and taking exams, so staying organized is key. Here are some tips on how to stay organized and up to date on deadlines for the end of the semester.

1. Break out the planner

So you haven't *actually* written anything in your planner for weeks, but that's OK. Flip past all those blank pages and have a fresh start. It's good to write down the due dates of assignments so you don't forget. Also, you can write down specific times to study so you don't have to cram last minute for that biology exam that's worth half your grade.

2. Study, study, study

We cannot stress the importance of studying enough! It's critical to consistently study material so that you can retain it better and totally ace any upcoming tests or pop quizzes. By studying little by little every day (or at least a few times a week), you can get a good understanding of what you know and what you want to work on more. This will allow you to focus more on areas that you need to brush up on and give you the time to get help from a teacher or friend if you need it. 

3. Sleep...earlier

We know that you want to stay up and binge-watch TikToks or rewatch a show you haven't watched in years, but sleep is *crucial* for ensuring sure you function correctly. Getting enough sleep can help enhance your focus, give you more energy and prepare you for the day ahead. Also, the blue light from your phone can mess up your sleep schedule, so opt for a book instead. Turn off your phone or laptop and catch some zzz's before your big day of school.

4. Hang with friends

If you're worried about missing out on time with your besties because you'll be studying, don't. You're entire friend group def needs a study sesh, so ask them to hit the library with you or go to a local coffee shop to review notes. You can take breaks and chat a little *and* get your work done as a team.

5. Keep a to-do list

Waking up and writing out a to-do list of tasks you want to complete throughout the day is a great thing to do. Not only will it keep you on track—crossing off each item when you're done will give you the motivation to complete your list. Refer back to your planner or calendar for due dates and write assignments that are due soon on the list. 

6. Check your backpack

When it comes to the end of the semester, your organized notes, pencils and once carefully color-coded folders turn into a mess. Suddenly you have loose papers, only one notebook and can't find a pencil to save your life. Simply reorganizing your backpack can make you feel inspired to end the semester on a good note.

With the semester coming to an end, don't feel bad that you're not as organized as you once were. Trust us, it happens to *everyone.* Try out these tips to improve your organizational skills!

Let us know if you tried any of these tips @girlslifemag!

More study inspo this way...
✏️ 7 study YouTubers to help you up your school game
✏️ How to deal with the Sunday scaries
✏️ 4 ways to stay motivated for the entire school year

Header and slider image via Unsplash | All GIFs via Giphy

by Alyssa Barnes | 11/16/2022