6 tips to clean up your computer folders

For projects to move forward, it’s better to have a clear mind and impeccable organization. For your well-being—and that of your hard drive—it’s time to have a clean-up. The objective is to rank your files in priority order and give them names that make them easy to find. Here are 6 tips to help you out.

• Clear your desktop

• Keep the first level of priority very simple

• Create a system for naming your documents

• Prioratize your files with titles

• Choose a tool that organizes automatically

• Work online as much as possible

1. Clear your desktop

Albert Einstein once said, “If a cluttered desk is a sign of a cluttered mind, of what, then, is an empty desk a sign?” Clearly he had no problem cleaning up his computer desktop. So here’s our first tip: adopt the Desktop Zero method.

The concept here is to install desktop shortcuts for the essentials, AND THAT’S IT. Create a folder called “Desktop Archives” for storing all your files and keep only the trash bin. Put only the documents you’re working on that day on your computer desktop. Once you’re done, archive them in said folder. You should get used to archiving as you go along instead of littering your wallpaper with a million files that you never look at. You’ll then be able to once again admire your beautiful background photo (and if it’s a photo of a cat, even better).

2. Keep the first level of priority very simple

To avoid having to rummage through fifteen folders subdivided into thirty others to find a document, be careful not to increase the importance levels in the “Desktop Archive” icon. If you use your computer both personally and professionally, set up only two folders: one with your company name and the second with yours. Store your files in these two high-priority folders, without creating any more. This way you keep the first level of storage very simple and you won’t get discouraged when you have to file new documents in your folders.

3. Create a system for naming your documents

Your goal is to be able to find all your documents easily by using the computer search bar. To do this, give them names with elements that allow them to be easily identified: the date, project or supplier name, document type, and so on. You need a system. For example, for a quote from the Alpha company received on February 4, 2020, your document name could be “04 02 2020 Alpha Quote”. It’s up to you to develop a personal system that you can stick to!

4. Prioritize your files with titles

In your pro folder, use shortcodes so the files that appear first are the ones you are likely to open most often. Here’s how to do it:

• The files with names that start with “_” are displayed first in your folders: these are the ones you will be able to access the fastest. So you can decide to name the documents you often use this way: “File name”.

• Files with names that begin with “@” are displayed second. Those that you use less can be labeled “@File name”.

• Follow the same procedure for lower priority files: name them starting with a number: “1. filename”, for example.

If you want to make a file easily recognizable, assign it a colored icon or use the “pin” function.

5. Choose a tool that organizes automatically

You can also automate file storage by using the following tools. If you have a Mac, Hazel is useful to store documents based on your own system. You can also use the Smart Folder native feature. According to Apple, “Smart folders automatically gather files by type and subject matter and are instantly updated as you change, add and remove files on your Mac.” This feature acts as a filter and lets you find folders even more easily. Create smart folders such as “In Progress”, “Pending” and “Archive”, and put each new file in there, for example.

For those with a PC, you could try Fences, a paid software utility that allows you to create giant Post-It notes on your desktop with the main categories you want to see there. By default, the tool allows for a very clear distinction between applications, folders, and documents. Again, you can set up and customize your organization, and then the software will automatically sort your documents for you.

6. Work online as much as possible

Ideally, you’ll apply the previously mentioned tips by storing all your professional documents on the company network or a drive. You’ll then be able to check your folders anytime, anywhere. This also lets you automatically save your work and share it with others.

With these tips, you should be able to clean the messy web of files and folders on your computer, in no time.

Translated by Kalin Linsberg

Photo: Welcome to the Jungle

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