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The following is a short list of ideas that you can put to work to make sure you organize your files effectively. Remember, virtual work can disappear! It is not like you are carving out stone and automatically what you do today is there waiting for you tomorrow. Quite the contrary. As the world becomes more and more digital and virtual, you need to work harder to ensure that all of your files are effectively managed. Here are some good ideas, that have proven valuable over the years:

1. Separate images and text files.
Create unique folders for each type of file.

2. Do not mix project files.
Create independent folders for all projects.

3. Use a good zip program to e-mail your large files.
Files can get lost or corrupted with e-mail transmissions. Zip ‘em up!

4. Name your files with meaningful names.
That way you can find them!

5. Delete of all temporary files that Windows creates.
This will speed up your drive again.

6. Run a good defrag program every two months or so.
This will also speed up your system.

7. Create a meaningful directory structure.
As you do more and more work on your computer, this will help you to locate files.

8. If you’re on a network, copy your files to a network drive.
If your computer gets a virus or crashes, your files are safe if they are duplicated.

9. If you’re computing alone, copy your files onto a flash drive.
Again, you want to make sure all files are duplicated in case of some technological crisis.

10. Know your file extensions!
Sometimes the best way to locate a file when you search is by file type.

All The Best, Keith

Tags: Writing //