The Novakian Notebook

The name is mine. That’s about it. Everything else is simple, straight-forward organizational skills with a little twist.

Equipment Needed:

• One 2-inch, three-ringed binder

• One two-pocket folder for each class

• Looseleaf paper

• One box for paper storage

A piece of paper can be in one of four locations:

1. The Do Side (Right-hand side of each folder): Every class has a two-pocket folder. The right-hand side of each folder is for anything that needs to be done, including assignments to be completed or notes that require study for a class the next day. This side allows students to quickly see what needs their attention.

2. The Done Side (Left-hand side of each folder): This pocket is for items that are already completed and not 3-hole punched, such as notes, graded assignments, packets, or labs. Anything that doesn't need further action or will be addressed in during class goes here.

3. The Space (Between the folders): This area serves as a space for all papers related to that specific class. It may also contain some loose-leaf paper for taking notes during class. Any completed and 3-hole punched materials should be stored in this section.

4. The Box: The Box is a designated storage space, which could be an empty dresser drawer, a large Rubbermaid container, or a cardboard box, typically located in the student's bedroom. All papers from the entire semester are placed in The Box and should not be thrown away during the semester. At the end of the semester, before final exams, the contents of The Box are sorted. Anything helpful for final exams is separated from other papers, while the rest can be discarded.

It’s simple and for many students it works.