6 Tips For Keeping Your Desk Tidy

Does your desk look like a hurricane just blew through it, or is there actually space for working? Some people think clutter is a sign of hard work or genius. I’ve never been able to focus properly when things are helter skelter, and prefer a neat desk. Here are some tips for keeping your desk tidy.

photo credit: Laure Wayaffe

1. Have a wastebasket next to the desk

Use this as much as you can. Work or correspondence that has been dealt with should go either into a file for long-term storage or the wastebasket. Any mail that is not personally addressed to you can go straight into the wastebasket. If they don’t know who you are, they won’t miss your reply.

2. Store everything in drawers

Choose a desk with many drawers. These can store stationery, calculators, note pads and anything small enough to fit into a drawer. Ideally the only things that don’t go into a drawer are your computer and plants. These get to stay on the desk.

3. Create additional storage spaces

If the built-in drawers don’t offer enough storage space, you can get separate drawer sets or cupboards. Things that you don’t use on a daily basis can go into these additional spaces, leaving your desk clear for the things you have to do everyday, like work.

4. Allow only one pile

If you must leave documents visibly on your desk in case you forget to deal with them, leave them all in one pile. Some people like stacked trays which allow you three little piles, one on top of another, for “In”, “Pending” and “Out”. Basically there should be only one vertical stack of items you need to deal with on a daily basis. Everything else can be stored away.

5. Work on one thing at a time

Once an item is done, all the associated documents should be stored or discarded before pulling out the next item and its related documents to work on. This not only keeps your desk clear, but gives a wonderful sense of accomplishment and a strong sense of moving through your day quickly and effectively.

6. Tidy up before leaving

The last task of the day should also be put away even if not yet completed. Store everything in a “to do” drawer or tray, and take it out again the next morning. Tidying up before leaving gives a nice sense of ‘going home’ and allows you to start the next day fresh and feeling in control when you see your neat desk.

A tidy desk is one of those little things that make a big difference. You’ll not only concentrate better when you work, your career may get a boost because you project the impression of being in control. Go look at the desks of a few highly successful people, and decide for yourself if keeping a tidy desk is worth the effort!