Get Your Files Under Control

A clearer way to build a file system designed so you can find and trust what you need.

The problem. You can't find the file you need, your Downloads folder has become a graveyard, and old versions and duplicates are scattered everywhere.

The promise. This guide helps you build a simple file system designed for retrieval — so you can find and trust your files without endless searching.

What you'll be able to do

After working through the guide, you'll be able to:

1. 01Make retrieval the goal instead of a tidy hierarchy
2. 02Map every place your files collect
3. 03Build one shallow folder structure you can keep
4. 04Use filenames that carry context and sort reliably
5. 05Turn Downloads into a transit area, not a graveyard
6. 06Resolve duplicates and versions without losing work

Look inside

What is inside

1. Start here: make retrieval the goal
2. Map every place files collect
3. Protect files before you move them
4. Create one file inbox
5. Build a shallow folder structure
6. Use filenames that carry context
7. Turn Downloads into a transit area
8. Clear the desktop without losing work
9. Resolve duplicates and versions
10. File scans, attachments and records
11. Separate active, reference and archive
12. Use search and metadata deliberately
13. Build backup and recovery into the system
14. Migrate without creating another mess
15. Maintain the system in fifteen minutes