Removing clutter is a time-consuming task, but a cluttered work space significantly impairs your ability to find things, and you will get the time back that you invest – and more! To retrieve materials quickly, you’ll need an effective filing system that includes three basic kinds of files:

Working files

Materials used frequently and needed close at hand.

Reference files

Information needed only occasionally.

Archival files

Materials seldom retrieved but that must be kept. For ease of retrieval, organize files in the simplest way possible. For example, you could label files with a one or two word tag and arrange the files alphabetically.

Once clutter has been eliminated and other materials have been filed, the effective work space includes only what is essential: a set of three trays to control the workflow on your desk, standard office supplies, a computer, and a telephone. Everything else, except for what you are working on at the moment, can and should be filed where it can be retrieved as needed.