What Every Desk At Home Should Have

Writing Implements

• When you are working at a desk, you need something to write with and maybe even something to write on. Every desk in your home should feature a stock of pens or pencils and a pad of paper; however, keep the writing instruments to a minimum to keep your desk from getting cluttered. This allows you to make notes for yourself if you need to and provides something to write on at a moment's notice. Small sticky notes are also helpful if you need to make a note of something you need to do at a later time. File folders can also help keep the area organized.

Lighting

• Even if the room in which your desk is located is lit from an overhead lighting fixture, keeping a small desk lamp on your desk gives you additional lighting. Depending on the layout of your desk, an overhead light fixture may cast shadows on your desk, especially if you sit between the light and your desk. A desk lamp lights those shadows and gives you the proper lighting to complete your desk activities.

Resources

• Especially if you use your desk for homework or similar work, you should keep a small set of resource books on your desk. While these desktop sets do not always contain all of the information of their full-sized counterparts, they typically hold enough information to help you when necessary. Important resources include a dictionary, thesaurus, atlas and spelling dictionary. Keeping a calculator on your desk helps with balancing your checkbook and any other math problems you may encounter.

Computer Equipment

• Computers play a big role in the home office, as well as helping with school work. Whether you own a desktop computer, a laptop or a tablet, using it at your desk gives you a stable surface and a consistent place to work. A consistent place to work is important for students, especially. If you need to print documents, keep the printer close by, as well as extra ink and paper so you don't have to leave your desk if you run out.

Telephone

• Some of the work you do at your desk may require you to make phone calls. You may need to call a creditor to make arrangements for payments or you might need to call your study partner for help with a problem. If you use a landline phone, keep an extension at your desk for easy use. If you only use a cellphone, place it on the desk before you begin working; however, if you are doing sensitive work that requires complete concentration, turn the ringer off to avoid being disturbed by a call. Turning the ringer off allows you to still use the phone if you require.