Folders, Binders and Organizers

Start with paper size and where the paper will live

Most filing products are cut for letter paper, which is 8.5 by 11 inches, while legal paper is 14 inches long and A4 is slightly longer and narrower than letter. Decide the paper size first, then the home: a drawer or cabinet calls for manila or hanging folders, a shelf for binders or boxes, a desktop for sorters and trays. Everything in the aisle is labeled by size, so check it before pairing pieces. For the drawer, see manila and hanging file folders.

Binders keep pages in order, folders keep sets together

A binder suits reference material that is punched once and read often, with sheet protectors for loose or fragile pages. Folders suit working papers that are added, removed and regrouped, and they take no punching. Planners, card files and brochure holders fill the gaps for schedules, small cards and handouts. Choosing between binding and folders mostly comes down to how often a set changes. Ring sizes and sheet protectors are covered under ring binders and sheet protectors.

Questions about Folders, Binders and Organizers

Should I use folders or binders for papers I add to often?

Folders. They need no punching, so you can drop in new sheets at any time and move whole sets between files. Binders suit finished reference sets that stay in order, such as manuals, policies or procedures.

What is the difference between letter and legal paper?

Both are 8.5 inches wide, but letter is 11 inches long and legal is 14 inches long. Letter folders do not hold legal sheets without the paper sticking out, so match the folder, binder or drawer to the longest page you use.

Are plastic folders better than paper ones?

Plastic resists moisture, tearing and creasing, so it lasts longer in frequent use and in damp places. Paper folders are easier to write on, take labels well and suit cabinets of records that rarely move. Choose by how often the folder is handled.