Organize Your Data
Name files and folders
Name files and folders using short, meaningful names with no spaces. Intentionally naming files and folders helps you find and use your data and can help you manage different versions of files. Some software and operating systems will not work with file and folder names that do not adhere to certain requirements. KU Libraries have created a series of three brief videos about naming files and folders.
Structure folders
Create folders whenever you have more than three related files. Use levels and sub-levels of folders and arrange them by project, theme, date, or format. Be consistent and use a system that makes sense for your work. Clean up occasionally by sorting through files and folders to rename, move, or delete as needed. KU Libraries have created a series of three brief videos about organizing folders, also called directories.
Rescue your desktop
Your computer's desktop is an easy location to save files for quick access. But too many files and folders on your desktop turn "quick access" into confusion and wasted time. Rescue your desktop from overcrowding and save yourself time and frustration by regularly deleting desktop files or saving them to permanent locations. KU Libraries have created a brief video about organizing your computer's desktop.