1. Use a daily planner

This is the easiest tip out there for staying organized. Using a planner, one that you physically have to write in, will allow you to jot down every detail of your day. You’ll be able to write down each assignment as you find out about them, so you’ll never miss another due date again.

It'll also help you keep track of any events/plans with friends you might have coming up so you can plan accordingly for working on homework in your free time.

2. Keep a specified notebook and folder for each course

Although it might seem easier to take notes on your laptop, handwriting notes in class have been shown to improve memory during studying for the tests. If you neatly handwrite your notes and keep a folder with all the information you could possibly need, you will be much more likely to succeed.

3. Color-code your notes

Another easy way to organize your school work to make it easier for you, in the end, is to color-code your notes while you write them. Choose a certain color for terms, dates, people, etc. This way you automatically know what color to look for when you’re studying.

4. Actually read/use/keep the syllabus

It’s easy to just glance at the syllabus on the first day of class and shove it in the back of your backpack for the rest of the semester, but actually using it will help tremendously. Keep the syllabus for each class in their specific folders and make sure to write down the important dates in your planner. It won’t take long and it will help you throughout the next 16 weeks.

5. Work ahead if possible

This is pretty obvious, but the best way to stay on top of your school work is to work ahead. You might not want to, but waiting until the last minute to do things is never a good idea. If you wait to start an assignment, paper, etc. until the night before it is due, then your work might be sloppy and rushed. Give yourself enough time to work ahead on assignments so you get things done in a timely manner.