Sometimes a certain order can be helpful. I can handle this routine even in the depths of stress.

If you’re dealing with a big mess, go for the garbage first. Anything that can be immediately removed, get rid of it! Don’t worry about cleaning yet. Neatly stack plates and cups to wash later, don’t let it derail you.

Then move on to seating areas. Beds, couches, and chairs can be made neatly very fast. It also helps you see how disorganized the rest of your space is, while giving you a surface to place things temporarily as you go.

Pick up anything off the floor that doesn’t belong there. If it has a spot, put it where it goes. If not, that is part of why it was never put away. Try your best to create a regular location for it.

Now all that is left are the surfaces. Tables, counters, desks, whatever. Organizing papers, tech, and decorations is much easier than everything else you’ve already done. Save it for last, when you’re putting in the finishing touches. Sometimes all it takes is a bit of adjusting to make a messy desk neat and usable.

NOW you can start cleaning. Moving clutter stirs a lot of dust up, yet a lot of people try to do both organizing and cleaning at the same time. It is also easier to dust, wipe down surfaces, and mop/vacuum when everything is tidied.