Having trouble with organization? Senior Staff Writer James Perry offers the latest and greatest in desk layout technology for this semester.

The Basic Desk Set-Up

Let’s take it back to the basics: what do you really need on your desk? If you have drawers, use those to put often-used items out of harm’s way to streamline your attention during class. Things you won’t have to reach for often should go in bottom drawers or at the back of drawers, while items you use every class should be within arm’s reach in the top drawers.

The most you’ll need to keep handy should be notebooks (or other note-taking devices), pens, and textbooks. Keep your space unclogged by putting items away after they’re used!

The Gamer Desk Set-Up

So, okay, you’re at home and you might have access to your ULTRA FAST PROCESSING SELF-ASSEMBLED GAMING COMPUTER. No need to panic if the basic desk set-up doesn’t work for you. Put that double-monitor set up to use watching your Zoom feed on one and taking notes on the other! With upped screen intake, don’t forget the 20/20/20 rule: every 20 minutes, look 20 feet away for 20 seconds to keep your eyes healthy!

A must-have for this set-up: a wire management system. Nobody wants to deal with the hassle of tangled wires. Grab some mini zip ties, a lot of patience, and all your nasty tangled wires and make them into a beautiful clean creation.

The Analog Desk Set-Up

OK, so you can’t really go analog this semester. If you prefer writing notes by hand (which is recommended by most for memory retention!), all you have to do is put your laptop to the side to make some room for your notebook. Set up on a slight diagonal and prop your laptop up to reduce the amount of neck twisting you have to do. Make sure there’s enough light on your notes and you’re all set!

The Maximalist Desk Set-Up

So, maybe you don’t get distracted by having extra items on your desk. In that case: go for it! There’s nothing like a cute and cozy desk to sit at. Got a Millie the Bear or Roar-ee plushy? Set ’em up so they’re taking class with you! Cute knick-knacks and decorations are fantastic and can give you a bit of serotonin for motivation.

Pro tip: string lights can turn a cozy-ish space into a very cozy space, so use that to your advantage. Don’t neglect the importance of a desk that makes you comfortable; you’re going to be spending most of this semester at it. The maximalist desk set-up can often go awry, so make sure that every item there has a place to go and clean often!

The Minimalist Desk Set-Up

If none of these options sound appealing to you, you can always go minimalist for this semester.

desk illustrations via bwogger