#school basics

A group of kids are taught camping basics. Riccarton Primary School

Christchurch, New Zealand

1. Hydrate

Drink WATER. Don't like water? Drink fruit juice, vegetable juice, milk, etc. Healthy drinks, just not sodas.

 2. Sleep

I don't care if that exam is tomorrow and you've barely studied. SLEEP. At least 8 hours, your brain will thank you later.

 3. Thick bag straps

Thicker straps will help distribute the weight of your bag more evenly and will also help keep the straps form digging into your shoulders. Bonus points for padded straps.

 4. Get a backpack

I know those shoulder bags are cute n' all but your back and shoulders will benefit from a good sturdy backpack.

 I personally use this bag which I bought here. I love it since it lessens the weight of my bag by 20%. This is the only backpack that I can wear without my injured shoulder flaring up.

Still want a shoulder bag? Fine. Get one with thick straps.

 5. Get a sturdy bag

Whether you chose a backpack or a shoulder bag, please make sure it's sturdy. Your going to school, not to the mall. You need a bag that can take a beating and that will last you more than one semester.

 6. Use a multi-subject notebook

Do you really need 1 notebook per subject? If not think about using multi-subject notebooks. They will save you space at the very least. You can group the subjects into one multi-subject notebook by their topic similarity or the days that you have the classes.

 7. It's not all about expensive school supplies

You don't NEED those expensive highlighters/ pens/ bags/ notebooks/ etc., you want them. And guess what? You can succeed without them. Also you can always find dupes. Want pastel highlighters? Stabilo Boss highlighters got your back.

If you really just can't seem to let go, prioritize / save up. Are those pretty school supplies too expensive / not a necessity? Save up for it or buy the necessities first and the wants last.

 8. Get a planner

No you don't need a perfect artsy, prim and proper Bullet Journal, but a planner will save your ass. Get a simple planner and USE it, having your deadlines written down where you can see them will be a huge help.

Grab your syllabi and write down all your assignments, essays, exams, etc. Check this out. 

 9. Study in advance

That planner is meant to be used to help you with this. Study at least 1 week in advance. It will help. I promise.

10. Exercise

I know, I know, but even just a little bit of exercise will help you. Not only is it good for your health but it'll help your brain too. Don't like sports or yoga? No problem, clean your room or walk around the mall, or walk to your favorite shop. That's still better than nothing. Get into the habit of simple exercise.

 TL;DR

1. Water. Or healthy drinks. Drink.

2. Sleep. 8 hours. Don't whine.

3. Thick bag straps=happy shoulders

4. Backpacks. Just get one. If not, see above.

5. Bag must be able to take a beating. No weak ass bags.

6. Multi-subject notebooks are your friends.

7. You don't need the expensive school supply shizz. You want it? Save up / Priorities first

8. Planner to save your ass. Plan, follow, succeed, repeat.

9. Study in advance. It help.