Rotate food staples out of your pantry and create menus to use up dated canned goods.

Organize the kitchen so that it works with the flow of activity. Examples: place drinking glasses in cupboards near the sink or the refrigerator and bakeware and roasters near the oven.

HOME OFFICE

Tame your desktop by keeping on it only supplies used on a daily basis.

Create a paper flow system for incoming documents.

Use the in box only for items not yet reviewed.

Follow the "handle once" rule: Do not handle a document then put it back on top of the desk. Take action, then file it or toss it when done.

FILES

Create a filing system for electronic documents that is similar to the one you have for paper. Sort, file and purge electronic information routinely.

Keep a file index (a master list of file names). Check the index before creating a new file to avoid making duplicates. Use it when deciding where to put new documents.

Trying to figure out how long to keep bank records, income tax returns, utility bills, appliance warranties or mortgage statements? Go to www.lifeorganizers.com, look for the office/home-office link, then look for the topic on records retention. It lists general guidelines on how long one should keep specific records.

When maintaining files, keep the most recent papers in the front so whenever it's opened, current information is on top.

MAIL

Open mail near the trash can or recycling bin.

Invest in a shredder to prevent paper from piling up and to protect against identity theft.

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© The Modesto Bee