With many schools resuming classes even before the Labor Day holiday, the dog days of August have become the prime time of the back-to-school frenzy. There are appointments to be made, clothes and shoes to purchase, and a long list of supplies to secure.

Before becoming overwhelmed with the growing back-to-school to do list, take a deep breath and take inventory, then prioritize. Spending time evaluating what you have versus what you need can save valuable shopping time and money in the home stretch before school starts. Consider the following: