The key to maintaining control over your environment and being an effective manager is to be prepared. Planning is the thinking part of preparation. This is where you consider what you want to accomplish, how you want to do it, and what you will do in all types of situations. When you plan you think about how you will handle the normal day-to-day operation of your class as well as what you will do when unusual circumstances arise. Preparation involves all the steps you take to accomplish your plans. While there are any number of plans you can implement to make your job run smoothly, some of the basics should include: Plans for setting up your classroom Lesson plans for every day use Lesson plans for when you are absent Plans for handling disciplinary issues or disruptions Time management plans for how you will handle the class period As well as these major types of planning, every teacher has his or her own special planning to do, which might include planning for field trips, meeting with parents, working with special populations students, using technology, and many more.