One of my favorite products to handle papers are paperwork arrangers. I have been using them daily since before I was an organizer and couldn’t imagine not using them. Paperwork arrangers are basically 2 pieces of plastic sealed on 2 sides that allow you to hold papers in them and see the top page. It is a simple concept that makes a big difference. I use them for everything from client files to current projects to manage things like “Bills to Pay” and “To Do’s”. They don’t replace file folders in my file cabinet, but rather are the way I manage my active papers and the things that I need to carry around a lot. Any papers on my desk are in paperwork arrangers with a handy post it note to specify what it is from “Calls To Make” to “Review Insurance Policy”. Having no loose papers makes things easier. And paperwork arrangers simply feel organized!

Paperwork arrangers come in many different styles, colors, weights and prices. You can get them at any office supply store. Here are a few of my favorite ones and why:

1. Century-Safe Paperwork Arrangers from Century Business Solution– These are my main paperwork arrangers because they are very strong and last for years. I use both the 1/3 cut version and the regular straight edge. I like the clear ones and the colored ones- especially when I can get a whole pack of purple ones. These are on the expensive side, but they will last you a very long time.

2. The Pendaflex PileSmart QuickView Jackets with Write-On Tabs– What is unique about these paperwork arrangers is that they have a long colored edge along the bottom to write on and make these folders stand out when piled up. If you are a piler not a filer- these may be for you.

3. Avery Plastic Sleeves– These are very thin and not good to carry around papers, but they are perfect to be used inside file folders as a way to separate a small subgroup within a folder that does not warrant an entire folder to itself. They fit easily into file folders and make separating and grabbing small sections very simple.

If you already use paperwork arrangers then I am preaching to the choir here. What is your favorite kind? If you have never used them, it is time to give them a try. You will wonder how you lived without them!