SAA Dictionary: tickler file (2024)

FAQs

What is a tickler file? ›

: a file that serves as a reminder and is arranged to bring matters to timely attention.

n. A group of documents filed chronologically under some future date when they require further attention or action.

A tickler file or 43 Folders System is a collection of date-labeled file folders organized in a way that allows time-sensitive documents to be filed according to the future date on which each document needs action.

The tickler file is still useful, however, these many seasons later! Although when I first learned about this kind of file, it was pre-all-things-digital, but I still use one because there are some items — even in 2022 — that are NOT digital and for those and other situations, physical items serve as the prompt.

A tickler file is a paper or digital reminder system. It organizes a list of current or future tasks that need completed or tracked—either once or on a recurring basis.

The Tickler File is an organizational tool which can be used to simplify the tracking of date-related items and to manage work flow. It works well as an adjunct to personal planners and calendars, allowing them to be used for streamlined focus on items that require on-going review and access.

The physical way to create a Tickler File is through a kind of three-dimensional calendar with 43 folders: 31 numbered from 1 to 31 for each day of the month, and 12 more labeled with the name of each month. The daily folders go before the monthly ones, so that the first folder corresponds to today.

To put the tickler file into action, put tasks or items (on paper) that need to be done by particular days into the corresponding days' folders for the current month. For example, if you process invoices on the 15th of the month, place all invoices that come across your desk into folder No. 15.