*Special thanks to Target for sponsoring today’s post! As always, all opinions are my own*
Organization is KEY in college. Seriously, if there’s one thing I learned during my four years of college it’s that college is all about punctuality. From homework, to making sure you make it to your advisor meeting to getting to class on time, college is all about setting a schedule and following it. Now that’s not to say that there aren’t any spur of the moment moments in college, but it’s always better to plan things out. Besides, an effective school, studying and work schedule leads to more free time! Here are five easy tips for staying organized in college:

1. Stay On Schedule With a Calendar or White Board.
Seven classes, five reading assignments AND two group projects all in one week? It can definitely get stressful having to remember everything you need to get done during the week, so why not make it easier on yourself? By simply writing out your weekly schedule on a white board (I love the ones that stick right on the wall) or your monthly schedule on a desk calendar, you can easily see what tasks need to be done and than plan your course of action! I’ve been playing around with the MadeForU College Styler tool and since I LOVE bright colors and florals, it matched me with this adorable Day Designer floral desk calendar (I can’t wait to start using it next month!)  

2.  Always Carry a USB. 
This one is HUGE! You never know when you’re going to make a random trip to the library or computer lab so it’s better to be safe than sorry. Admittedly, during my freshman year of college, I was one of those people who just thought “I don’t need a USB, I’ll just email it to myself.” Email is great, but what’s not great is having a computer randomly shutdown 10 minutes before class and before you’ve emailed that five page paper to yourself! Trust me, a USB just makes things easier.

3. Color Code Your Folders and Notebooks.
Having different colored folders or notebooks for each class is an easy way to get organized. Having a color code system is also a great way to shave time off your morning routine. If you’re ever running late, it’s easier to spot and remember to grab your blue Biology folder and your green Physics notebook in that huge pile of stuff on your desk.

4. Keep Your Work Space Tidy.
Speaking of desks, it’s also better to try and keep your workspace as tidy as possible. A great way to easily organize your desk is by having everything in its own special place. Having bins for your pens, pencils, papers and other school supplies make it easier to find everything once you need it. Trust me, nothing’s worse than wasting 30 minutes looking for a pair of scissors when you’re already on a tight deadline.