Get Organized Debbie Williams is an organizing strategist and founder of OrganizedTimes.com. She is the author of  "Common Sense Organizing" from Champion Press. Folder Organization Question: I usually have 3 to 5 things going on at the same time and have other things pending until I can complete them. I have a real hard time organizing everything. I usually use folders and keep them on top fo my desk. How can I get rid of the clutter but keep track of everything. Thanks. Becky K. Answer:Dear Becky, Using folders is a great way to contain the clutter, and I think you're on the right track to organizing your work. Find a "stairstep" rack to vertically hold your folders -- you can grab what you need easily and will be able to find just what you're looking for. Traditional stacking trays invite us to pile rather than file, and slow down the organizational process; we usually end up sorting through the same stack several times during the course of a work day. Also, try to avoid labeling your folders "miscellaneous" since those folders often create more trouble than they are worth! If you like to use other visual reminders, use colored dot stickers or colored folders, using one color per task or job. Keep the labels short and sweet- make sure they make sense to you so that you won't have to flip through them each time you need to find an important document or file. Or if you have a cubicle, you can make good use of wall space with "wall pockets", those clear acrylic holders that attach to the wall of your office. This frees up quite a bit of valuable real estate on your desk, leaving more space for you to work. Good luck, Debbie Williams Also see: Ask Debbie your questions Recently answered questions Use technology to simplify your life