How to Organize Papers with the FAST Method

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By Julie Mayfield
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Get control of your paperwork!

Are you desperate to organize the papers overtaking your desk? Read on to learn how to organize using the FAST method.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Step 1

Gather all of your papers in one place. As you begin going through your papers you are going to do one of four things with each of them:

F - File
A - Act
S - Shred
T - Toss
Step 2

Some papers simply need to be filed away.

Start a pile for papers that need to be filed. Once the sorting is completed, file this pile of papers away. Create new files if necessary.
Step 3

Some paperwork will need your attention - put it in an 'Act' file.

Start a pile for papers that need some kind of action. These might be bills, insurance claims, registrations, etc. Anything that needs further action from you goes into one file labeled 'Act'.
Step 4

Shred paperwork with personal or financial information.

Any papers that need to be thrown away but have personal or financial info on them should go into the shredder.
Step 5

Toss the paper clutter!

Outdated reading material - newspapers, magazines, catalogs, junk mail, etc. - and papers without sensitive information on them can be tossed.
Step 6

By now you should have a clean, uncluttered desk or office and you can begin to address those things that need your attention. They're all organized neatly in the 'Act' file. Enjoy your newfound productivity!