Computer Tips [Flagstaff Central]

Keep Your Computer Files Clean

Okay, where did I put that file? I know I saved it...?? It's in here somewhere...????

We hear these statements over and over again from our clients. In general, most people don't realize how important it is to keep their file folder structure in an organized fashion. Most of the time people simply dump stuff into My Documents or My Files, not taking into consideration that they are going to be using this for years and years. Eventually these main folders become a huge list of files that are very disorganized.

So, our Tech Tip of the Month is geared around helping you clean all this up.

~	Open Explorer (file folder manager) Right click on [START] Choose [Explore]

~	What Does Explorer Show? The left window shows your computer and drives The right window shows the files/folders in each

~	View Folders: Click on the [+] symbol next to [Local Disk C]. This will show all of the folders and files on your hardrive.

~	Find the Folder you want to work with (like "My Files" or "My Documents"). Double click on this folder to show all of the files within it in the right window.

~	Create File Folders by Topic: Go to [File] [New] to create new folders Name the new folder (as clearly as possible) Repeat as often as you want (for every topic)

~	Clean Up Files: Click once on each file and drag it into the new folders you created (Example: move "Ice-Cream-Recipe.doc" into the "Recipes" file folder). Repeat this until everything is in the correct folder.

~	Save Correctly From Now On: Every time you work on a new document or file, make sure to save it in the appropriate folder.

Hints:
     Name each file/folder clearly
     Make as many folders as you want
     Use dates to separate files
     Avoid punctuation when naming files
     Use "-" or "_" instead of spaces

The cleaner you keep you computer the better. Years from now you will be able to go back and find exactly what you want if you follow these basic steps. File folder structure can go a long way toward keeping your computer clean and functional. We hope this helps!!!

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Flagstaff Central is not liable for any damages or repairs due to our tech tip. Things do happen whenever you work on a computer. We recommend you be as careful as possible. If you prefer to not handle repairs or clean up, we recommend you contact a professional. Click here for a list of local computer repair companies.