If you have to bring a lunch tomorrow, prepare it the night before, too. But don’t put that in your backpack – you can keep that in the fridge. If there’s something that has to be left out (say an art project that has to finish drying), make yourself a note and leave it on top of your backpack to remind yourself in the morning that it hasn’t been packed yet.

Everybody needs a different amount of sleep, but most people fall into the 7 to 10-hour category. In fact, the average teen needs a whopping 9 1/4 hours of sleep to feel rested. [2] X Research source Aim for that number as much as possible.

Give yourself 5 or 10 minutes more than what you think you need. This way if you’re running behind, you’re still on time. It’s the worst feeling to be rushed in the morning and feel like you don’t have enough time to do what you need to get done.

Flossing and mouthwash not only kill bacteria, but they keep your breath smelling good for longer, too. If you eat breakfast early, consider gargling with mouthwash afterward to be extra fresh for school.

Experiment with how often you need to wash your face. For some people, two or three times is helpful. For others, once is as often as they can without drying out their faces. Also, only use oil-free skin products. Coconut, olive, and tea tree are the three oils that will help your skin. The rest, like mineral, will clog your pores and cause you to break out.

Try to keep everything to a minimum – natural is always best. This goes for everything from hair gel to eyeliner. Especially for school – save the crazy beauty routines for going out at night.

This could be part of your beauty routine, too, but the later you do it, the longer it’ll last at school. If nothing else, just reapply some lip gloss and you’re good to go.

Alternatively, stick to the either/or rule. You can either wear a necklace or a bracelet, for example. Wearing too many accessories easily becomes overkill. They distract from each other, too. If you’re wearing just a necklace, it’ll pop more than if you’re wearing a necklace, earrings, and a bracelet.

If looking good is a top priority for you, keep a small bag in your backpack full of supplies. A brush, a small bottle of hair gel/spray, and anything else you think you may need.

Remember to match the color of your shoes to the color of your outfit. Blue jeans match everything. If you’re feeling daring, try an eye-catching monochrome look like an all red outfit.

There’s no need to guess. Measure your pant size and remember it. Try on clothes before you buy them. A medium in one brand may be a large in another. If you can, avoid ordering online so you’re certain of the fit.

Don’t overdo it. Too many accessories can make it look like you’re trying too hard. Aim for one or two matching accessories per outfit. Don’t over match your accessories. If you’re wearing a mainly blue outfit, avoid blue accessories. You can match the color of your accessory to one of the understated colors of your outfit. A hint of red on your shirt and red earrings go very well together. Accessories are a good way to express yourself. A crazy scarf or unique hat makes for an intriguing look.

On the other hand, if you just wear a t-shirt and jeans every day your style will get old. Try to find a reasonable middle ground.

Match your necklace to the length of your neckline. Jean shorts and tank tops are a fashionable look for girls. Make sure you comply with your school’s dress code, though. Layer with jackets and undershirts to add more color and depth to your outfit. Sweaters generally look great on girls. Apply a light layer of makeup. Makeup is a good way to bring out the natural beauty in your face. Other than your lipstick, makeup shouldn’t be noticeable.

T-shirts are a basic but perfectly acceptable look. You can experiment more with colors once it’s warmer and you can wear shorts. Colored and patterned shorts are very fashionable, especially if they match your outfit. When it’s colder, layer with a light jacket, overcoat, hat, and scarf. Make sure all those elements are working together. Sweaters are a timeless look for boys too.

Nicer clothes like button-downs and blouses should be ironed before they’re worn. Organize your wardrobe to make putting together an outfit quick and easy.

Use a scented detergent so your clothes naturally smell good. Though if you have eczema or chemical sensitivities, avoid fragrances and scents as they can irritate skin.

Be careful not to wear white shoes in grass or mud. If it’s raining, wear boots or shoes you don’t mind getting dirty.

You have less room to express your style with a uniform, but you can still make differentiate yourself with accessories and unique hair style.

Blow dry your hair if it’s long.

Find a quality hair salon nearby. Ask the stylist’s advice and build a relationship with them. Specific hair cuts are better than generic ones. For girls, hair ties and braids are your friend. You don’t have time to do your hair up every day. Put your hair in a bun or ponytail for an easy hair style. For boys, short buzz cuts are safe. If you grow it out, make sure to comb and part your hair appropriately.

You don’t have to go to the gym to stay in shape. Go for a bike ride. Try yoga. Play basketball with your friends. Don’t stress about your body type. A healthy lifestyle and consistent physical activity will get you the body you want.

If you have longer hair you should condition it too. You can also shower at night before bed.

If you have acne problems, make sure your face wash fights acne and oil too.

It’s a good idea to carry breath mints or gum to freshen up during the school day. Mouthwash helps too.

Don’t put too much on or it will be overpowering. If you have the tendency to sweat, make sure your deodorant is an antiperspirant too.