Once you’ve got your filing system down pat, create a master list (ML) of contents of your file cabinet or open file cart.  Why?

• Make it easy to find what you’re looking for when you’re short on time.
  

• Know what files you have already created so that you don’t create duplicates.

• Make it easy for someone who’s unfamiliar (e.g., a temp, your spouse, etc.) with your filing system to find a document.
  

List the files on your ML exactly as they are positioned in the file drawer. Be sure to update the ML each time you add or remove a file, and keep it inside the file drawer in front of all the files…or post it directly on the front of the file cabinet.