Expert-Approved Paper Management Solutions (especially for those with ADHD)

If you’re overwhelmed by paper piles, scattered notes, or stacks of Post-it notes, welcome to the club! Especially if you have ADHD, you can feel overwhelmed by what to keep and how long to keep it. Having a system and routines makes all the difference. As a Certified Professional Organizer, I love using simple, affordable tools to bring clarity and calm to your desk, office, or command center. Here are a few of my favorite paper-organizing solutions.

📚 Magazine Sorters

These upright bins are perfect for sorting by category—think: “To Read,” “Projects,” “Clients,” or “Bills.” Label the front so you can grab what you need at a glance.

🗂️ Desktop Sorter

This is a great way to keep active files or folders handy. Label each slot for quick access—such as “Today,” “Pending,” or “Reference.”

🛒 File Cart

Roll it under your desk or into a closet! Use hanging files and file tabs to separate categories like “Finance,” “Family,” or “Meetings.”

📎 Hanging File Organizer also known as a Desktop Sorter

Perfect for vertical storage on a wall or behind a door. Label each section so incoming papers or forms land exactly where they belong.

📦 One Single Box

If you’re looking for the simplest paper system ever, try using one single file box for the entire year. Label it “2025 Papers” (or whatever the current year is), and drop in everything you need to keep—receipts, statements, school papers, or important documents—as the year goes on. You can use labeled folders inside if you’d like, or just group items loosely by month or category. At the end of the year, seal it, label it, and store it. Done! It’s a low-maintenance way to stay organized without overthinking your filing system.

✏️ A Few Extra Supplies

• Label maker

  • Clear labels help you find what you need right away. A visual reminder confirms your system.

• Letter-size hanging files

  • Stick with one color or use a color-coding system

• File folders

  • Optional, but great for extra separation and sub-categories inside hanging files

Creating a simple paper management routine also does not have to be complicated. Set up your paper management system with an inbox to gather all the papers in one place. That can be a large box or basket. Drop all papers in there all week. Once a week, sort into your paper management system and toss what is not needed. Now everything has a place,e and you know where to find what you need; you save time, reduce stress, and feel more in control of your day. Start small with just 15 minutes a day. Keep your paper management day consistent, like every Sunday. Have your organized system support you, not overwhelm you. Now with the right tools, a great system, and an improved routine, you can feel less overwhelmed and more productive with your papers.

Want a tutorial on organizing your papers? Check here!