Check out our separate Canvas course on 'Creating your study space' for some advice on how to make your work space contribute to your organisation and time management.

Here are some quick tips:

Folders & files!

Set these up at the start of the year when you know what all your modules will be. Stick key deadlines, e.g. the module assignment/assessment, on the front of the file. If you know what your assessment is going to entail, keep the details somewhere prominent. Each week, file your lecture and seminar notes in the relevant folders, and try writing a short summary of key things you've learned, including important theories, concepts or readings. Getting into these routines will help you enormously when it comes to revision time, as well as with writing your assignments.

Lists and calendars

An essential for any study space. Stick key deadlines, plans or lists to the wall so you can review them every day. If they make you feel stressed, try breaking tasks into smaller chunks, ticking them off as you achieve them. Looking at a list on which several tasks have been completed can be satisfying, and it helps to be able to visualise your own progress. Find out more about how to use lists and plans in our Canvas course 'Managing your Time Effectively.'

Archiving

Rather than letting everything build up on your desk, keep current materials close by and regularly 'archive' (file away!) older material that you may not need again for a few weeks or months. Use labels to make sure you can find anything in your archives quickly and easily.