Although digital documents are quickly replacing
their paper counterparts, the former are still very common. Keep reading to find out what tools and supplies can help
you get - and stay - organized.
Although digital documents are quickly
replacing their paper counterparts, the former are still very common. It
can be difficult to keep paper documents organized, so having the right
tools is essential. Keep reading to find out what tools and supplies
can help you get - and stay - organized.
A hole punch. One of the most important
things to have around when organizing your documents is a good hole
punch. Depending on the supplies you're using (i.e. three-ring binders),
you'll want either a two- or three-hole punch. (Or both.) A manual
punch is helpful although you may want an electric one if you have a lot
of paper to deal with. An electric device can really help speed things
up.
File folders. A good supply of
file folders is essential for proper document organization. There are
many styles and sizes available so you'll be able to find ones that are
perfect for both letter- and legal-sized documents. There are even files
that have prongs in them so you can can secure your items. It also
doesn't hurt to have labels on-hand. You can use your computer to type
up the labels and then print them. They'll make your files look great.
When you're done creating the files, you can either store them in a box,
filing cabinet, or bookcase.
Three-ring binders.
When you're organizing your documents, you'll probably find that
three-ring binders are some of the most helpful supplies available. You
can use individual books for different topics. For example, you can use
one for tax information, another for veterinary records, and so on. Or
you could also just use one big book so all of your information is in
the same place. Think about what would be best for your needs and get as
many binders as you need for your organization project.
Index tabs and sheet protectors.
When you divide your documents up as necessary, it can be helpful to
use index tabs. They can be used with binders so it's easy to access a
particular type of information. (You can also use index tabs with
folders, although it's helpful to use ones that have tabs on the short
side of the sheet.) You should also think about using sheet protectors
so certain documents (i.e. marriage or birth certificates) will stay in
good shape.
A paper shredder.
Finally, there are going to be some items that you just don't need to
hang on to. Instead of recycling or tossing them, they should be run
through a paper shredder. That's because the documents likely contain
information that an identity thief could pilfer including your name,
Social Security number, and so on. Identity theft is devastating on many
levels. Luckily, shredding items before getting rid of them can prevent
you from becoming a victim of this crime.
Organizing your documents can be time-consuming and challenging,
but the results will be worth it. You'll be able to find things more
easily, keep track of your budget, and more. The supplies discussed
above can help make things easier, so think about getting some of them
for your organizational needs. Good luck!
Jeff McRitchie is the Vice-President of Marketing for MyBinding.com.
He regularly writes articles, reviews, and blog posts on topics related
to bookbinding, laminating, paper shredding, and office equipment. More
than 2,500 of his articles have been published in thousands of
locations on the Internet. If you're looking for information about three-ring binders his articles are a great place to start.
