How to Organize School Binders and Notebooks
Using School Supplies to Promote Academic Success
Sep 4, 2009
In September, most students start off with neat, well organized binders. Many may even make a valiant effort during the first few weeks of school to keep their binders in good shape, only to find that gradually, papers are falling out and assignments are getting misplaced.
Unfortunately, those students who are chronically disorganized are often the same students that find it difficult to keep up with their academic assignments. Why? Because they are unsure of their assignments, can't find what they need to do their work, and lose assignments after they are completed. Their self-esteem suffers, and soon they may start to feel that they are helpless to improve their situation.
Developing a system to keep binders organized, and finding a way to maintain that system, can help students keep track of their materials and ensure that things are handed in on time. The following basic steps will help students get it together and keep it together.
Purchase Quality School Supplies
A binder that will fall apart after a month is a waste of time and money. Skip the economy version and invest in quality office supplies that will last through the year. Looseleaf paper, dividers, and any other items the teacher recommends should also be purchased.
Follow the Teacher’s Instructions
Many teachers will suggest a binder system for their classroom. For example, they may suggest that students have separate sections in their binders for homework, tests, handouts, homework, and classwork. There’s a reason they recommend what they do; the smart student will arrange their materials according to this system.
Use Filing Systems
The key to keeping binders organized is filing papers in the proper sections immediately. Students who don’t follow this rule, who shove papers in randomly or use the front pocket as a catch-all, will find it extremely difficult to keep their binders organized. Make sure all papers are hole-punched to make it easier to file quickly. Care should also be taken to make sure clips are opened and closed carefully so they don’t separate. If that happens, the papers won’t be held securely, and could easily fall out.
Frequent Clean Out
Binders should be cleaned out on a regular basis so they don’t become filled beyond capacity and risk breaking. Once each term or marking period, go through and remove unneeded papers, add new dividers where necessary, and use reinforcements to secure any important papers that have ripped out.
Taking a few extra minutes each day to keep binders and notebooks organized will pay off in the long run. Students will find they are less stressed, more confident, and have more academic success.
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