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How to Make File Separators

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Organization is a critical component to success in any endeavor. Professionals and hobbyists alike use written organizational systems to keep projects on track. This results in the accumulation of lots of paper. A common method of keeping materials and data organized is by separating different paperwork into different areas using file separators. Create your own file separators to save money. Homemade file heading separators can be used to organize any type of paper files.

Count the number of sections that are needed to organize the paperwork. Write down a descriptive name for each section on scratch paper.

Open Microsoft Word and bring the cursor to the toolbar. Select “Tools," then “Labels." Select “Options."

Scroll through the product numbers until “5266 File Folder” is reached. Click “5266 File Folder." Click “OK.”

Click on “Save As” and name the document “File Separator Template."

Type each one-word description you have created into each section of the labels.

Print the list on heavyweight paper.

Use scissors to cut each word out. Each word will serve as a file separator heading.

Place one file heading on the vertical edge of a sheet of heavyweight paper. Attach the label to the paper using clear tape. Place clear tape over the front and the back of the file heading so that the tape laminates the file heading.

Repeat for each of the separate sections.

Tip

If heavyweight paper isn’t available, use standard weight paper. The drawback of lighter weight paper is that the file separators may not hold up as well to prolonged use. If Microsoft Word software isn’t available, the title of each heading may be typed in a double-spaced, list format.
If a word processor isn’t available, the titles of the headings may be handwritten. Experiment with different font styles and colors to achieve the desired look. Use colored paper to make the file separators stand out.

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Writer

Sarah Scott has been writing for a variety of publications since 1994. Scott majored in English at California State University in Sacramento. She has worked as a teacher and tutor and enjoys teaching others. Her experience includes news copy, online articles, technical manuals as well as printed business advertisements.