With all the school supplies to choose from for students, purchasing everything they need can transform from a seemingly simple task to a much more challenging one. However, a few tips and some common sense will help you make the right choices to become a well-equipped student and be successful in school.
Steps
Method 1 of 3: Deciding How Much to Spend
Step 1. Save some money
School supplies can be quite expensive, so you'll need to estimate how much you're going to spend. Ask your parents to help you if they can.
Step 2. Take a look at your home to see if you already have the material you need before going to the shops
If you already own some of the equipment, use those instead of buying new ones. Save time and money!
Step 3. Buy quality products that last over time
When you go to the shops, check that the goods are of quality. Do you think the satchels run the risk of being damaged once you put them back in your backpack? By buying substandard material that will be ruined before the end of the school year, you risk finding yourself dealing with total disorder and you would have to pull out your wallet again to buy new material and remedy the situation. Buy only durable material. Even if you had to spend a few euros more, you would still ultimately save money, especially if it lasts all year or you can also use it during the next one.
Method 2 of 3: Make a List of School Supplies to Purchase
Step 1. Check the list of school supplies to buy provided by your school
Most of the time, schools provide a detailed list of essential material to have before the start of classes. If this should be the case, make sure you buy everything on the list. The list is also useful because it saves you from buying material that would be useless, saving you money that you can use for other things.
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If your school doesn't provide you with a list, use common sense. You will need a notebook or binder for most subjects, as well as a folder.
Step 2. Decide if you feel you need special materials in addition to common ones
Some courses may require special materials (for example, special software or a lab coat). In these cases, it is always best to ask a teacher or student who has taken the course to make sure you are buying the right materials.
Can you get used items? As for some items, such as expensive textbooks or clothing, taking them second-hand may be the best option. Many schools promote events or set up stalls for this very purpose; ask at the information office
Method 3 of 3: Purchase the Material
Step 1. Buy a suitable backpack or bag
If you don't already have a backpack, shoulder bag or handbag, buy one that will last at least a few years. Choose a dark colored item as it won't get dirty easily. Check that the zips, flaps and tabs are sturdy to prevent your belongings from falling out easily.
If you want to buy a bag, check the balances first. Bags are usually quite expensive, so it would be wise to look for a good deal
Step 2. Choose pens and pencils carefully
If possible, try them out before buying them. This saves you time and avoids problems when it comes to taking notes. Once you find a brand you like, buy a lot so you won't run out of it. Also, don't forget to buy any refills.
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Buy blue and black ink pens for writing. Most teachers correct in another color (e.g. red, green, orange, etc.) and therefore prefer students to use black or blue ink.
Step 3. Buy a large pencil case
Fill it with different pencils, blue, black and red pens, a set of geometry tools (protractor, compass, triangle ruler, 15cm rulers etc), pencil sharpener with compartment to collect shavings, a 30cm ruler, erasers (the ones you put on top of the pencils are perfect), pens, pencils and a calculator.
Step 4. Buy basic school tools
These include, but are not limited to binder clips, a stapler, filing cabinets, rubber bands, scissors, a three-hole punch, an eraser, and some tape.
Buy laminated folders to collect your homework. A4 size is the best option
Step 5. Choose an agenda that you are going to use
Some schools provide students with an agenda that can also be used as a pass in the corridors, but it may not be to your taste. Choose an agenda that is easily transportable and that you can use to write to us.
Step 6. Buy a small wallet to use to hold lunch money, some emergency change, and so on
Step 7. Consider purchasing a phone book to write down any emergency numbers or friends' phone numbers
Advice
- On the first day, some teachers may give you a list of materials needed for their subject (such as a special type of notebook for Italian or a scientific calculator). Usually all schools open around the same date, so after classes start, many shops may have a sale.
- You can choose to use a single large binder for all subjects or several smaller binders for each of them. Both solutions have their advantages and disadvantages.