Organizational Skills for Students

Here are some top organizational skills for students:

Time Management: Prioritize tasks based on deadlines and importance. Use tools like planners, calendars, or apps to schedule study sessions, classes, and other commitments. Break down larger tasks into smaller, more manageable steps.

Effective Note-Taking: Develop a note-taking system that works for you, whether it's traditional note-taking, digital notes, or a combination. Review and organize your notes regularly to reinforce your understanding of the material.

Task Prioritization: Identify and focus on high-priority tasks to ensure you're working on what matters most. Avoid procrastination by tackling important tasks first.

Goal Setting: Set short-term and long-term goals for your academic and personal development. Break down goals into actionable steps and track your progress.

Study Skills: Develop effective study habits, such as creating a designated study space, minimizing distractions, and using active learning techniques. Schedule regular study sessions to stay on top of coursework.

Organization Systems: Keep your physical and digital spaces organized. This includes your study area, computer files, and any materials related to your classes. Use folders, binders, or online tools to organize class materials and assignments.

Communication Skills: Stay in regular communication with professors, classmates, and group project members. Respond promptly to emails and messages to stay informed about any changes or updates.

Task Tracking: Use to-do lists or task management apps to keep track of assignments, deadlines, and other responsibilities. Cross off tasks as you complete them to stay motivated.

Adaptability: Be flexible and adaptable to changes in your schedule or unexpected events. Learn to adjust your plans and priorities as needed.

Self-Care: Schedule time for self-care activities, such as exercise, relaxation, and socializing. Recognize when you need a break and listen to your body and mind.

Memory Techniques: Use mnemonic devices, visualization, or other memory-enhancing techniques to remember information. Create flashcards or summary sheets for quick review.

References: 

• Beck, J. S. (2021). Cognitive behavior therapy: Basics and beyond. The Guilford Press.

• Bocci, G. S. (2019). The Social Media Workbook for Teens. New Harbinger Publications Inc.

• Cooper, B. & Widdows, N. (2008). The Social Success Workbook for Teens. New Harbinger Publications Inc.

• CROWDER, A. (2020). CBT Toolbox for Children & Adolescents: Over 200 worksheets & exercises for trauma, ADHD. PESI PUBLISHING.

• Eich, J. (2015). Dialectical Behavior Therapy Skills Training with Adolescents. PESI.

• Griff, K. (2020). Social Skills Curriculum for Teens. Trixie Lulah Publishing.

• Gruzewski, K. (2020). Therapy Games for Teens. Callisto Publishing.

• Hansen, S. A. (2013).  The Executive Functioning Workbook for Teens. New Harbinger Publications Inc.

• Linehan, M.M. (1993). Skills training manual for treating borderline personality disorder. Guilford Press: New York.

• McLaughlin, L. (2002). Oppositional Defiant Disorder Activities. Rockridge Press.

• Phifer, L.W. (2022). The CBT Toolbox for Young Adults. PESI.

• Pratt, D.M. (2019). CBT Toolbox for Depressed, Anxious & Suicidal Children and Adolescents. PESI.

• Shannon, J. (2022). The Shyness & Social Anxiety Workbook for Teens. New Harbinger Publications Inc.

• Sokol, L., & Fox, M. G. (2020). The Comprehensive Clinician’s Guide to Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. PESI.

• Spensley, S. (2021). Positive Behavior Activities for Kids. Rockridge Press.

• Stallard, P. (2019). Thinking good, feeling better: A cognitive behavioural therapy workbook for adolescents and young adults. Wiley.

• Wilson, T. (2023). Therapy Games for Kids. Vox Publishing House.