With the list view, you can see and sort by file type, date created or last edited, or by size.

Now, using the list view to your advantage, sort your files into the folders that make sense. They're out of sight, but I can find them if I need them. Putting files into folders is similar to archiving them. So, I have a 2020 folder and within it are subfolders called 2020 PHOTOS, 2020 TAXES, and so forth. Why do I organize this way? Because I think about my work and personal files based on when they happened. I have one folder for every year, and within those folders, I have whatever subfolders make sense. The method I use to sort files is by year. Or you might have one folder for PDFs, another one for Photos, and so forth. Folders called Work, Personal, Fun, and Old are fine. Instead, make a few folders with names like In Progress and Photos to help you sort what you have.ĭon't think too deeply about the correct classification for each file. You don't have to trash all your files to clean up your desktop. This view can make it easier to see which files you can delete or put away. In other words, open a Finder window in macOS or File Explorer in Windows. The easiest way to clean up the desktop is to start by viewing your files in a list rather than in a graphical representation of the desktop and file icons. How can you see and remember a file among a messy heap of others? View Desktop Files in List View

Before you know it, the principle defeats itself. Then we repeat this action a few more times. Sometimes we place a file on the computer desktop so it'll be in our line of sight and we'll remember it. If you enjoy a good purge and have a messy digital life, here are five places to start:

Unclutter your laptop