• American Writers & Artists Inc.

How to Get the Most out of Your Word Processor: An Efficient System for Naming Your Files

Give your files descriptive names that mean something to you AND your client. Include a version number and your name as part of the file name. Your client will appreciate your professionalism – and it will help you be much more efficient.

Let's say your name is Joan Smith. You're selling a product called ProstaWow, and this is your third submission to your client. Your file name could be ProstaWow JSmith03.doc.

Don't use a generic file name like HealthProduct.doc. Your client might have 17 health products, so this name will mean nothing to them.

Save every file you submit to your client. If you're currently submitting ProstaWow JSmith03.doc, you should still have ProstaWow JSmith01.doc and ProstaWow JSmith02.doc on your computer. When your client says, "I really like how you described pumpkin extract in your first version …," you'll have that description at hand, ready to cut and paste.

If you write multiple drafts before submitting one to your client, track those changes using letters (File01a.doc, File01b.doc). Use the same type of system when sending assignments to AWAI or to your coach for review.

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Published: July 12, 2004

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