get (something) in order

1. To clean or tidy something. Help me get the house in order before Mom and Dad get back! I have to get my classroom in order before the students return to school next week. We need to get the guest room in order before Grandma gets here.

2. To put something into the proper sequence. I've spent all morning getting these books in order, so don't go messing them up! Please get each group of students in order for picture day. Can you please get these files in order? I can't find a darn thing in here!

3. To arrange or resolve something so that it is in the most proper, efficient state possible. They brought in a consultant to help get the project in order. I'm trying to get my affairs in order before the illness gets too debilitating. If you don't want to be in this office all morning, get your documents in order for the notary now.

get in order

To arrange into the desired sequence, as of a group of people. Students, please get in alphabetical order along the wall before we make our way to the assembly. They asked everyone to get in order from shortest to tallest. Can you kids get in order from youngest to oldest?