A FILING CHECKLIST

WITH THIS PROCEDURE, YOU CAN DEVELOP A FILING SYSTEM FROM SCRATCH OR REVISE AN EXISTING ONE THAT ISN'T WORKING WELL.

1. Gather together in one place all items to be filed.
2. Have a wastebasket for trash handy, along with file folders, labels, and pens.
3. Pick up the item on the top of the pile (or the first folder if you're revising an existing file) and decide whether it has any value to you. If it doesn't throw it away. If it does go on to the next step.
4. If its worth retaining, choose a folder heading for it, label the folder, and slip in hte peice of paper. Some sample headings for a home life. finances, household repairs, personal letters, medical records, taxes warranties and guarantees.
5. Pick up the next item in the stack and go through the same procedure, the only variation being that this may fit into an existing foldr, rather one with a new heading. Consolidate whenever possible.
6. Assemble your pile of folders and put them in alphabetical order.
7. Put your alphabetized folders into a file drawer or a carton that you have specially set aside for files.
8. Each time you consult a folder, riffle through it quickly and pick out and discard the deadwood. That way, your files won't become crowded.