How To: Clear up office clutter

It's easy to find yourself drowning in a pile of papers and nick-nacks if you're not armed with a good organization system. By taking the time to set up a system where everything is condensed and has a place you'll find it much easier to keep it that way.

If that clutter-clogged office or cubicle has you frazzled, these tips will give you peace of mind and a more organized space.

You Will Need

  * Wire paper trays
  * 3-ring binders
  * File folders
  * Shredder
  * Recycle bin
  * Closet or dress screen
  * Multi-surface cleaner
  * Paper towels

Step 1: Make a plan

Make a plan to best use the wire paper trays, three-ring notebooks, and file folders and decide what documents should go where.

Documents that you reference daily should be easily accessible while everything else should be filed away for longer-term storage.

Step 2: Take your time

Take your time clearing the clutter and don't try to tackle everything at once. Break up your office or cubicle into small sections.

Step 3: Transfer loose notes

Transfer loose notes, such as contact information or dates and times of meetings, to one document on your computer or bulletin board.

Step 4: Remove personal items

Remove personal items, such as food containers, knick knacks, magazines, books, and electronic devices, that are not work-related.

Step 5: Shred or recycle documents

Shred or recycle paper documents that you no longer need or that are out-of-date. File everything else in a notebook, folder, or in a tray.

Open and file the day's mail as soon as you receive it so it doesn't get lost or create more desk clutter.

Step 6: Hide everything else

Use a closet or dress screen to hide messy bookshelves, file cabinets, and reference materials that are used only occasionally.

Step 7: Wipe away dust

Clean and wipe away dust and crumbs with a simple multi-surface cleaner and paper towels.

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