Multi-tasking is a necessary skill in today’s busy world. So when it comes to choosing office supplies the more tasks one item can accomplish the better. This is what makes a desk pad calendar such a beneficial addition to any office.

Traditionally, a desk pad, also called a desk mat, is used to protect the surface of fine desk tops. It can provide a smooth surface to write on which prevents pens, pencils, coffee cups, and any other office materials from marring the finish of a desk top. A desk pad calendar fulfills this need, but provides more than just a smooth writing surface.

Desk pad calendars on average are 22”x17”, but sizes can vary. Each date square is therefore several inches wide and high, providing space in which to note appointments, phone numbers or other vital information. One month is shown per page, often with the previous and following months shown on the edges for reference. The basic calendar will also have margins where extra notations may be made. Many styles are simply a pad with a calendar that is refilled year to year.

Other features are available to further increase the functionality of the calendar. Some options are alternating page colors, so each month stands out, or ruled date squares, so notes are kept organized. In other calendars a separate section may be set aside for notes, or they may be undated, to be filled in as needed by the user. Color can be used to highlight holidays or to set apart the weekends from the weekdays.

Going past the basic style of calendar, a wide variety of choices are available to show personal style or even for advertising. Though the color scheme is often simple, some calendars are available with artistic backgrounds, different for each month. Certain companies provide customized calendars featuring company names and logos to use as promotional materials.

The basic desk pad calendar covers a typical twelve month year, from January to December. However, specialized calendars, called academic calendars, are available that cover up to a 17 month span. These are geared towards teachers and students, covering an average school year. Different types cater to different school years: 12 months, July to June; 13 months, August to August; 14 months, July to August; 17 months August to December.

When desk space is limited, hangers are available on some styles of desk pad calendars. This way the large calendar format is preserved, but it can be hung out of the way on the wall. For the environmentally concerned, many desk pad calendars can be found that are made from recycled fibers and printed with soy inks.

Any of these styles of calendars are easily found at affordable prices. Prices range from around five dollars to over twenty. An online search for desk pad calendars provides ample choices within various price ranges. However, a good calendar should be available at any office supply store