Speech-language pathologists are notoriously Type-A, and super organized. Well, many are. For me it took a bit of trial and error to figure out the system that works for me. I know we all have different ways of organization, but I want to share mine incase it helps you figure out your own system. Mine is not very sophisticated, but I think its the best I can do on my budget.
For School-Work: Each semester I begin a new white binder. I use dividers to separate classes, and hole punch all my papers. I still enjoy having paper copies of everything, so I can't help much if you want to do everything electronically. (Sorry!) Once I fill up the binder during the semester I begin to put older notes/papers into a separate one. At the end of the semester I combine the binder and separate the classes into the different binders.
For the cover I use a Word Template then change it for what I need. I usually put a picture of my school's mascot and then list the classes for that semester. Had I not already begun my system of labeling I would use cuter cover pages that can be found online. (I still may change my mind and change out my system)
For Clinic/Practicum: I use black binders to keep them separate from my school binders. Once again I use dividers, but to separate between clients not classes. To keep and personal client information protected I color code everything instead of using names. Since I have begun my practicum I divide between groups not individual clients.
For each group I print sheets with goals. The goals are then color coded to find any goals in a group that may be related. This makes it easier to plan. If you know you are working on antonyms you may see other related goals that would be easier to target simultaneously. I plan my sessions weekly, and at the end of the week I put finished worksheets and data sheets in the binder.
As I said before, my system is not the most sophisticated. I also have something I affectionately call my "junk folder". This contains all the random papers I collect that I need to keep, but am too busy to put somewhere else, or just have no place for them. This folder is my bit of organized chaos.
I hope this gives you some inspiration to find your own organizational system.
Lisa
Drink of the Day: Since it finally got chilly here in the South I wanted something warm. I thought warm spiced apple cider was just the thing.
