My daughter needed something to aid her with her constantly changing university work deadlines.
So I went old school, with a chalk board.

Step 1: The Size

The size was determined by the amount of Dado rail I had as a frame for the board.

Step 2: The Board

The board was bought from a recycle yard, as I didn't have anything suitable.
It's 1/4 thick
I cut it to 17" wide and 34" long.

The Dado boarder covers the top and both sides,
the bottom edge has a shelf for chalk.
the board was hung with hooks and wire.

The board was given an undercoat, then painted black with the dado painted white.
Works well and helps organize the Uni work.