Starting a new semester can be pretty stressful and hectic. It is so easy to feel completely overwhelmed with all of your new classes, assignments, and commitments. I have found that the key to staying on top of things and minimizing stress is organization! Here are some organizational tips that I have found to be very useful in my four years in college.

1. Buy a planner and actually use it!

Call me old fashioned, but I find it to be best to actually write down my schedule on physical pages. There is something about visualizing my schedule that makes me feel less stressed, and like what I am trying to do is actually possible.

2. Use a binder and add dividers to it.

For note taking and gathering class handouts and the miscellaneous things you accumulate over the semester, a binder is great! It keeps everything in one spot. If you add dividers, you can neatly label each section, and have space to organize notes and papers for each individual class.

3. Print off some fun, organizational pages to add to your binder.

I decided to try this for the first time this semester! Here is a cute page for organizing projects: http://www.theprojectgirl.com/2009/09/09/project-planner-free-download/. Here, you can find an awesome page for organizing assignments for all your courses: https://studyreadwrite.com/2015/01/26/college-binder-organisation/.

4. Keep your syllabus in the pocket of the corresponding class.

This way, you can always keep an eye on upcoming projects and important dates.

5. Write down assignments and important dates as soon as you learn about them.

That way, you won't have any chance of losing track of your homework and projects.

6. Plan ahead and stop procrastinating!

Umm, this is for me, just as much as it is for everyone else. I'm pretty decent with planning ahead, but the procrastinating part....let's just say I need some help.

7. Make lists.

To-do lists, idea lists, reminder lists...lists are essential.

8. Use sticky notes.

They're great for ideas or reminders, and can be used just about anywhere to make sure you see them.

9. Try different organizational techniques.

Find what works best for you, and stick to it even when things get crazy.

10. Don't forget to breathe.

Because breathing is essential.