How to Unclutter a Computer Desk

A cluttered desk may give others the message that you are disorganized.

A cluttered work space may be a sign to others that you are unorganized and perhaps unproductive. The easiest way to keep your computer desk uncluttered and clean is to clear the desk at the end of every work session.

Difficulty:

Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need

• File folders
• Wireless printer
• Wireless mouse
• Wireless keyboard
• Digital photo frame

1. File all paperwork in clearly labled folders. file folders image by Kathy Burns from Fotolia.com

   Clear the computer desk of paper. File most of the paperwork out of sight in clearly labeled folders.

   Post a cheat sheet on a nearby wall or under a keyboard for information that must be quickly accessed, such as phone numbers and non-confidential account numbers; this will reduce the amount of paper on the desk.

2. A wireless printer will clear the clutter of cables. Printer cable image by rasita from Fotolia.com

   Tuck wireless printers away and off the desk, to create more open desktop space.

3. Choose a wireless keyboard and mouse to keep your desk clutter free. keyboard image by Fyerne from Fotolia.com

   Wireless keyboard and mouse sets are available in every price range. The wireless keyboard and mouse can be moved freely on the desk without the tether of wires, and keep the space under and behind the desk clutter free. These wireless computer accessories may be stored in a desk drawer when you are not using them. A wireless optical mouse eliminates the need for a mouse pad.

4. Fill the pencil cup with only a few items. a pen holder image by Gary from Fotolia.com

   Limit pens and pencils on the desk surface to the few you use regularly. Put most pens and pencils neatly away in a drawer.

5. Keep all digital storage media filed away neatly. dvd image by dinostock from Fotolia.com

   File DVDs, CDs and other media storage items neatly into a notebook organizer for easy access.

6. Consolidate the photos on your desk for a clutter-free appearance. photo frame image by Jane September from Fotolia.com

   Consolidate the photos on your desk. Rather than having several photo frames on the desk, put photos into a photo cube or a collage frame.

   A digital photo frame is another alternative to traditional photo frames. Digital photo frames can hold and display many photos, which makes this option appealing to those who keep several photos on their desks. According to realsimple.com, the picture on some of these digital photo frames is as good as the picture you would have on your high-definition television.

Tips & Warnings

• Before you buy any wireless devices, check with the manufacturer to be sure that there will be no signal interference from cordless phones, wireless doorbells, baby monitors and microwave ovens.

References

• Real Simple: Organzing Your Digital Photos

Resources

• CNET Reviews: Reduce Interference on your Wireless Network
• Case Logic: CD/DVD Pages