How I organize my work desk

As I describe the setup or layout of my work desk today, I’d like to introduce some ways to talk about locations in English.

First of all, I have a laptop in the middle of my desk. On either side of my laptop, I have LED lights. Rightbehind my laptop, there is a Bluetooth speaker.

(The word “right” can be used as a synonym for “directly” when referring to locations, such as “right beside,” “right behind,” or “right in front of.”)

When I’m working, I place my (paper) notebook right in front of me, so that I can take notes. When I’m not using my notebook, I place it off to the side on a pile of books (Japanese grammar textbooks for my own language studies, English grammar and pronunciation textbooks, and an exercise/workout book!).

(As you might guess, "off to the side" generally means “in a direction away from the main area or center, or to the side of something.” We often place things “off to the side” when we are not using them.)

In one corner of my desk, I have a desk organizer, which holds all of my pens, pencils, markers, etc. There is even an old watercolour paintbrush that I now use to dust my laptop! Around the organizer, I have some tape, a lighthouse souvenir from PEI (Prince Edward Island), and a LEGO calendar.

In another corner of my desk, I have a coaster (for my coffee cup) from Banff National Park and a small collection of random items, such as my wallet, my keys, my sunglasses, sticky notes, and some old photographs. I also like to keep my schedule book within (easy) reach / close at hand.

(“Within (easy) reach” and “close at hand” are alternative ways to say “nearby” or “near me.” “Close at hand” can refer to time as well as to physical distance!)

In the background / behind me, there are some plants, a tanuki statue from Shiga, some old photos of my parents and previous pets, and a small collection of cute frog and cat figures.

(When referring to someone’s “background,” avoid using the word “backside,” which can mean “butt” in English. Some people have told me “I can see plants in your backside,” which would imply that plants are growing out of my bum - how embarrassing!)

And that’s it! That’s how I organize my work desk!