How to Buy School Supplies for High School
Save up some money., Check to see what you have around your house before you buy any school supplies., Buy quality for long-term durability., Check your school supply list., Consider whether you need special supplies beyond the usual., Buy a...
Step-by-Step Guide
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Step 1: Save up some money.
School supplies can be quite costly, so you will need to have an adequate budget.
Ask your parents to help out if they can. -
Step 2: Check to see what you have around your house before you buy any school supplies.
If you have items already, use them instead of buying a duplicate.
Save money and time! , When you are looking at school supplies, check the quality of the items.
Will the folders rip or tear in your backpack? Is the spiral wire bound to come undone when you are using a notebook? If you buy supplies that don't last you through the year, you will become disorganized and forced to fork out more money.
Check to see that what you are buying will stand up to some wear and tear.
Even if it costs a little more, it may be better savings in the long run, especially if it lasts all year, or even into the following year. , Often, schools will give you a list of needed supplies before you arrive.
If so, make sure to get everything on the list.
The list is useful because it also helps you to avoid buying things you don't need, and you can keep that money for other things.
If your school does not give you a list, use common sense.
You will need a notebook or binder for most subjects, as well as a folder. , Some courses may require special materials (for example, a graphics package or a laboratory coat).
In these cases, it may be best to consult with a teacher or student who has taken the course to ensure you get the right materials.
Is it possible to get used items? For some things, such as expensive textbooks or clothing, hand-me-downs might be the best option.
Many schools run used sales groups or stalls for just such purposes; inquire at the front office. , If you don't already have a backpack, rucksack or satchel, get one that will last a few years at least.
Choose dark colors as these won't mark as easily.
Check for sturdy zippers, flaps, tabs, etc. so that things can't fall out and won't bust easily.
Check for sales on bags.
You can spend a lot of money on bags, so it's wise to see what's on offer for less. , If possible, test them before you buy.
This can save you time and trouble when you go to write.
Once you find one style you like, buy multiples so you don't run out, or have a replacement for a lost utensil.
Buy pens in blue and black for writing.
Most teachers correct in another color (such as red, green, orange, etc.) , and thus prefer for students to use black or blue ink. , Fill it with: different pencils, blue, black and red pens, a geometry set (protractor, compass, triangle rulers, 15cm rulers etc.), sharpener with a top to collect shavings, a 30 centimeter (11.8 in) ruler, erasers (the ones that slot onto the back of your pencils are perfect), colored pens and pencils and a calculator. , These may include but are not limited to: binder clips, a stapler, index cards, rubber bands, scissors, a three hole punch, an eraser, and tape.
Get a few plastic art folders for homework.
A4 size is the best option. , Some schools provide a planner and require students to use it as a hall pass etc. but you may not find it one that you like.
Choose something that is portable, and that you will write things down in. , This is for dinner money, emergency supply money, etc. if relevant. , -
Step 3: Buy quality for long-term durability.
-
Step 4: Check your school supply list.
-
Step 5: Consider whether you need special supplies beyond the usual.
-
Step 6: Buy a suitable bag.
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Step 7: Choose your pens and pencils wisely.
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Step 8: Get a large pencil case.
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Step 9: Purchase basic school tools.
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Step 10: Pick a planner or organizer that you will use.
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Step 11: Get a small wallet.
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Step 12: Consider buying a phone book to write down any emergency numbers or the number of new friends.
Detailed Guide
School supplies can be quite costly, so you will need to have an adequate budget.
Ask your parents to help out if they can.
If you have items already, use them instead of buying a duplicate.
Save money and time! , When you are looking at school supplies, check the quality of the items.
Will the folders rip or tear in your backpack? Is the spiral wire bound to come undone when you are using a notebook? If you buy supplies that don't last you through the year, you will become disorganized and forced to fork out more money.
Check to see that what you are buying will stand up to some wear and tear.
Even if it costs a little more, it may be better savings in the long run, especially if it lasts all year, or even into the following year. , Often, schools will give you a list of needed supplies before you arrive.
If so, make sure to get everything on the list.
The list is useful because it also helps you to avoid buying things you don't need, and you can keep that money for other things.
If your school does not give you a list, use common sense.
You will need a notebook or binder for most subjects, as well as a folder. , Some courses may require special materials (for example, a graphics package or a laboratory coat).
In these cases, it may be best to consult with a teacher or student who has taken the course to ensure you get the right materials.
Is it possible to get used items? For some things, such as expensive textbooks or clothing, hand-me-downs might be the best option.
Many schools run used sales groups or stalls for just such purposes; inquire at the front office. , If you don't already have a backpack, rucksack or satchel, get one that will last a few years at least.
Choose dark colors as these won't mark as easily.
Check for sturdy zippers, flaps, tabs, etc. so that things can't fall out and won't bust easily.
Check for sales on bags.
You can spend a lot of money on bags, so it's wise to see what's on offer for less. , If possible, test them before you buy.
This can save you time and trouble when you go to write.
Once you find one style you like, buy multiples so you don't run out, or have a replacement for a lost utensil.
Buy pens in blue and black for writing.
Most teachers correct in another color (such as red, green, orange, etc.) , and thus prefer for students to use black or blue ink. , Fill it with: different pencils, blue, black and red pens, a geometry set (protractor, compass, triangle rulers, 15cm rulers etc.), sharpener with a top to collect shavings, a 30 centimeter (11.8 in) ruler, erasers (the ones that slot onto the back of your pencils are perfect), colored pens and pencils and a calculator. , These may include but are not limited to: binder clips, a stapler, index cards, rubber bands, scissors, a three hole punch, an eraser, and tape.
Get a few plastic art folders for homework.
A4 size is the best option. , Some schools provide a planner and require students to use it as a hall pass etc. but you may not find it one that you like.
Choose something that is portable, and that you will write things down in. , This is for dinner money, emergency supply money, etc. if relevant. ,
About the Author
Cynthia Gutierrez
Specializes in breaking down complex DIY projects topics into simple steps.
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