Organizing Computer Files Efficiently: 6 Useful Ideas
Organizing Computer Files by Name Files Properly, Use Folders for Directories, Get Rid of Unnecessary Data, Back-Up Data and Protect It.
Introduction to Organizing Computer Files:
Using a computer comes with certain problems that a few inexperienced people are likely to encounter. It helps when you are tech-savvy with the necessary knowledge, but this knowledge comes with time.
One of the examples of potential problems is a poor file management strategy, or rather lacking such strategy in the first place.
On the surface, using various files on a computer might appear simple. However, as soon as the number of files starts to grow, the issue becomes more apparent and difficult to overcome.
Unless you create a proper routine that you can stick to and manage computer files properly, do not expect the potential issues to solve themselves. If anything, the number of files will only grow and make it harder for you. To circumvent potential problems, here are 6 tips that you should find useful.
Make Desktop the Default Download Location
One of the most common problems for new computer users is struggling to deal with files they download. The default downloads folder is often hidden behind multiple directories, and unless you use the search feature or memorize the location, you will struggle to find it or not bother at all.
Instead, you should change the default download location. By saving downloaded files on the desktop, you will have an easier time noticing them and removing those downloads you no longer need.
Desktop clutter is not a pretty sight. In addition, it hinders the overall computer performance, so you want to keep as few documents and shortcuts on the computer’s desktop as you can, which will further incentivize you to delete files from it.
Name Files Properly
After you download files from the internet or transfer them from another device, such as a smartphone or tablet, the file names are usually a combination of random letters and numbers or something like IMG_01 and IMG_02.
It is easy to get lost among files named like that, so you should get in the habit of naming your files properly so that you do not have to struggle with the search feature on the computer while looking for files.
Use Folders for Directories
Do not keep files scattered around randomly. Instead, sort them so that you have an easier time distinguishing what is where and so on. Take advantage of folders and create multiple directories if you have to.
It might take a few more clicks to get to the file you need, but at least you will have a better system that gives less of a frantic feeling when you are going through the files on your computer.
Get Rid of Unnecessary Data
Managing data is easier when you have fewer files to deal with, right? Well, when you have a file that becomes obsolete, you should get rid of it permanently by using a relevant keyboard shortcut or dragging the file in the trash and emptying the bin.
There are reasons other than just better file management. Clearing the computer’s drive and freeing up storage helps with the device’s performance. You will find that various tech reviewers recommend having at least 15 percent of the total drive space free. As soon as the unoccupied disk space drops below the threshold; you are bound to run into noticeable computer performance issues.
In case you cannot be bothered with deleting files manually, get a cleanup utility tool and stick to that; particularly when you wish to get rid of temporary system storage, Organizing Computer Files and other junk.
Transfer Files to External Storage
Cleaning the drive by deleting files is not the only option. You also have external storage that you can utilize to your advantage while managing data on the computer.
An external hard drive or a USB flash stick is relatively cheap for Organizing Computer Files as far as computer accessories go; so you should not worry too much about overspending on them.
Of course, having physical accessories can be a bit annoying if you want to manage files better. Accessing and transferring data to an HDD or a USB stick means mounting the accessory; doing so multiple times throughout the day is not efficient.
Cloud services make more sense as they offer a digital approach to more efficient file management. You can move files back and forth between the cloud and your computer with relative ease so long as there is an internet connection.
Unfortunately, though, cloud services offer limited storage for those who do not pay a monthly fee; but it is not necessarily something you really need if you do not have that many files on the computer you want to keep on cloud storage.
Back Up Data and Protect It
The last bit of advice is about backups. Backing up your data should be one of the priorities even if you are relatively confident in the safety of your computer and are aware of potential cybersecurity threats.
Nevertheless, it is not just the odds of a virus or malware that could wipe data. You may accidentally delete one yourself with no option to restore, or the computer’s hard drive might malfunction. Keep that in mind and get in the habit of backing up computer files regularly.
As far as the options to back up computer data go; there are two popular methods that most users stick to regardless of their computer’s operating system. The first is cloud storage, and the second is external hard drives and USB flash sticks.
That is correct, both clouds and storage accessories you can use to free up the computer’s drive can also work as a means to back up important files.
Last words on Organizing Computer Files:
So there you have it—six valuable tips that should come in handy; if you want to be more efficient about managing your computer files. Follow the information in this article and create a proper strategy; that will make it easier to find, utilize, and protect files on a computer. Having a good strategy will ultimately lead to better efficiency and a sense of security; so it would be wasteful not to make the most out of the tips we shared.
