Digital Organization for a Paperless Study Routine

In today’s digital world, going paperless can be a game-changer for keeping track of class notes, assignments, and study resources. With the right organization tools, your study materials can be neatly stored, easily accessed, and even shared with classmates. Here’s a guide to using Google Drive, Notion, and Evernote to create a well-organized, paperless study routine that makes reviewing and studying easier than ever.

Choosing the Right Digital Tool

Let’s start by looking at some of the best digital organization tools and what they’re especially good for:

• Google Drive: Great for storing and organizing files, Google Drive is perfect for organizing documents, presentations, and images for each subject. It’s easy to share documents with classmates and teachers, and it integrates seamlessly with other Google Workspace apps like Docs, Sheets, and Slides.

• Notion: Known for its versatility, Notion allows you to create a fully customizable workspace. You can build out pages, subpages, checklists, calendars, and more. Notion is ideal if you like having a “one-stop shop” for your notes, assignments, and project plans.

• Evernote: If you’re a fan of traditional note-taking but want to go paperless, Evernote is a strong choice. It allows you to take and organize notes, add images, and save web articles for later. It also has an excellent tagging system for organizing topics.

Now, let’s dive into how to set up your digital study routine in each of these tools.

Setting Up Folders in Google Drive

Google Drive’s folder system is excellent for storing files by subject or unit. Here’s how to set up a straightforward organization structure:

1. Create a Main Folder for Each Subject
   Start by creating a main folder for each of your classes, such as Math, English, Science, etc. This is your digital equivalent of a binder.

2. Add Subfolders for Units or Topics
   Inside each subject folder, create subfolders for different units or topics. For example, your Science folder might have subfolders like “Chemistry,” “Biology,” and “Physics,” or by unit if your course is organized that way.

3. Organize by File Type or Assignments
   You might also want to create folders for specific types of files, such as “Notes,” “Assignments,” “Projects,” and “Tests.” This makes it easy to find exactly what you need at any time.

4. Use Descriptive File Names
   When saving files, use clear, descriptive names that indicate the topic and date. For example, “Chapter 5 - Ecosystems - Notes” or “Unit 2 - Algebra Homework - Due Oct 15.” This makes searching and locating specific files much easier.

Pro Tip: If you work with Google Docs, Sheets, or Slides, consider adding shortcuts to these files in multiple folders if they’re relevant to multiple topics or units.

Building a Customizable Workspace in Notion

Notion’s flexibility makes it a popular choice for students who want more control over their digital organization. Here’s how to set up a powerful, paperless study space in Notion:

1. Create a Master Dashboard
   Start by creating a dashboard where you can view all your subjects and assignments at a glance. This main page can include links to each of your subjects, a calendar, and a to-do list.

2. Set Up a Page for Each Subject
   Inside your dashboard, create individual pages for each class. Each subject page can include tables for assignments, notes, and study resources.

3. Add Tags for Easy Filtering
   Notion lets you add tags to items like notes and assignments. For instance, you might tag notes with “Important,” “To Review,” or “Exam Material.” Use these tags to quickly find what you need without having to scroll through all your notes.

4. Create a Calendar or Weekly Planner
   Notion’s calendar feature is fantastic for tracking due dates and test dates. You can add assignments to your calendar and link them to relevant subject pages so that everything is connected.

Pro Tip: Use the Notion web clipper to save online articles, resources, and PDFs directly to your notes. This is perfect for research projects or adding extra study material.

Using Evernote’s Notebook and Tagging System

Evernote offers a more traditional notebook feel, which is ideal if you’re looking for an intuitive way to organize notes. Here’s how to set up an effective paperless routine:

1. Create Notebooks for Each Subject
   Think of each Evernote notebook as a subject binder. For example, you could have one notebook for English, one for History, and so on.

2. Use Notes to Capture Class-Specific Details
   Within each notebook, create individual notes for class lectures, assignments, or topics. You might title your notes by lecture name or topic, such as “Shakespeare’s Sonnets” or “US Civil War.”

3. Tag Notes for Easy Access
   Evernote’s tagging system is a lifesaver for organizing and retrieving information. Use tags to label notes by topic or importance. For example, you might tag notes with “Key Concepts,” “Homework,” or “Exam Review.” This makes it easy to search for specific types of content when finals roll around.

4. Attach PDFs, Images, and Voice Memos
   Evernote allows you to attach images, PDFs, and even voice recordings to notes. Use this feature to store any class handouts or to capture your own voice memos on important topics.

Pro Tip: Evernote’s search function can even scan text within images and PDFs, making it easy to find information quickly.

Tips for Staying Organized and Consistent

Setting up your digital system is the first step; staying organized over time requires a bit of discipline. Here are some best practices:

• Schedule Weekly Maintenance
  Set aside time each week to update and organize your notes, assignments, and folders. This makes it easier to keep up with new material without feeling overwhelmed.

• Create a Consistent Naming Convention
  Choose a consistent naming style for your files, notes, and tags. This will make finding specific items faster. For example, always use the date format “MM-DD” or label notes with the unit name.

• Back Up Important Files Regularly
  If you’re using multiple tools, make sure you back up critical files to avoid accidental loss. Most apps have an option to export files or save offline copies for added security.

• Use Reminders for Due Dates
  Many of these apps offer reminders, which can help you stay on top of assignments and test prep. Set reminders in Google Calendar, Notion, or Evernote for any upcoming deadlines to ensure you stay on track.

With these strategies in place, you’ll have a well-organized, paperless study routine that makes accessing and reviewing material much easier. Digital organization not only saves space but also enables you to study smarter. Give these tools a try, and watch how much more efficient your study sessions become!

Peak Learning Solutions DTC is your gateway to academic achievement. Whether your child needs support in algebra, calculus, statistics, chemistry, biology, history, or AP courses, we provide personalized teaching designed to ensure success. Our certified teachers excel in enhancing metacognition and executive functioning skills, setting your child on the path to excellence. Contact our local, small business today at 720-737-9221 or visit www.peaklearningsolutions.com to take the first step toward educational success. We proudly serve students from neighboring schools, including Cherry Creek High School, George Washington High School, Our Lady of Loreto, Chatfield High School, Chaparral High School, Arapahoe High School, and Thomas Jefferson High School.