Get at least one binder, depending on the number of classes you'll be taking and the volume of notes you'll have for each. Look for a 2" to 3" binder with clear view pockets on the outside covers, and storage pockets on the inside. Slip a copy of your timetable into the front view cover so you'll know where you should be at a glance. Use the back for a workout schedule or a motivational quote. Label your binder with your contact information so it can be returned if you happen to misplace it.
How do I love pocket binders? Let me count the ways... An obvious use is to separate notes from different classes within the same binder. You can keep a couple of pockets at the front of your binder for homework and assignments you need to do. When you're ready to do the work, pull out the pockets for the work you need to do and leave the rest of your binder at school. Keep completed work you're ready to submit in a designated pocket, and marked tests and assignments in another.
A lot of students use spiral ruled notebooks but to be honest, I've never liked them. For one, paper torn from the notebooks has an unsightly frayed edge. Another reason is that they tend to accumulate lots of unsorted, loose papers. In my opinion, a better way to prepare for note-taking is to keep your binder stocked with ruled filler paper. When you take notes, write the date and class or topic at the top of your page, and file it chronologically with the other class content.
In a perfect world, every handout would have three holes punched in it. Students would simply slip the handout into their binder, and every page would be neatly filed. Alas, students frequently receive handouts with (gasp!) no holes. Unable to slip the pages readily into binders, the papers are shoved into pockets, packpacks, and textbooks where they are forgotten, or lost. A notebook 3 hole punch can be stored in your binder, forever on call to address unpunched handout issues.
Keep your writing and office supplies handy in a sturdy pencil case. Personally, I like the three hole punched cases you can store in a binder, but they aren't suitable for bulky items. In my opinion, it's better to use occasional use items like glue sticks and scissors at home in a pencil box.
Your pencil case should include ballpoint pens in a variety of colours, which you can use to highlight, categorize and clarify points in your notes. Keep one or two highlighters ready for this purppose, too. Some quick dry whiteout fluid is handy for revisions on assignments and tests. You'll also need a few pencils, a sharpener and an eraser. If you MUST write in texts or library books, be courteous and use erasable pencil. Your books will maintain higher resale values, too.
Students frequently submit multi-page assignments as loose papers. The trouble is, when several students do this, it's easy to get their work all mixed up, or even lost. Keep your papers tidy and together; staple them. Look for a flat, compact stapler you can carry to class every day.
Post-it notes are indispensable for students. Small post-its work well as subject dividers in binders; and as markers for assigned readings, homework, and pages you want to ask questions about. Larger post-its are handy for writing notes to teachers, classmates, and even yourself. Post to-do lists by the front door as a reminder before you leave home. You can then move the note to the dashboard of your car, or the front of your binder, depending on what you need to get done.
If you don't already use a portable planner / calendar, now is the time to start. You don't have to spend a lot to get an effective system. For years, I carried a slim, light planner that fit easily into a pocket or purse. It contained an address book, monthly planner pages, and a week on a page. Recently, I switched over to a PDA (Personal Digital Assistant). It is also very portable but stores much more information and I can back up the data on my work and home computers.
Keep all of your student basics in a portable office: a carefully chosen school bag. If you think you'll be taking a laptop to school, get a computer bag. If you expect to be carrying a lot of heavy texts or materials, choose a sturdy bag on wheels. If you're going to be walking or using public transit to get to school, a traditional backpack works well.
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