How to Manage Your Paperwork

Paperwork…the bane of an SLP’s existence?! The good news is that it doesn’t have to be. We can put systems into place that make managing paperwork a less painful process.

Here’s a peek at how I manage my paperwork!

Step 1: Make a Checklist

The best way to overcome the overwhelm and get things done more efficiently is to break a project (like writing an IEP) into smaller steps. It makes it easier to get started, and you’re less likely to miss important steps.

You can use a digital calendar/task management system! I love using Asana to keep track of my steps.

If you prefer paper and pencil, you can also use these printable checklists.

Step 2: Keep Track of Due Dates

Whether you’re using your online IEP system, SLP Now, or a yearly calendar, make sure to write down all of your due dates! This is super important for Step 3… (:

Step 3: Work Backwards

It’s inevitable that some months are heavier than others. If I have 60 IEPs to write this year, then I’ll try my best to split the workload evenly (i.e., about 7 IEPs a month). If I have three IEPs due in September, then I might get a head start on a few so I don’t end up having to write 10 reports in October. I might not always be able to move up the meeting, but I do have the “power” to plan ahead for those super crazy months. It doesn’t always work out perfectly, but it’s a system that has worked pretty well for me!

Step 4: Set Up a Folder System

In order to keep track of all the moving pieces, I use a hanging organizer to keep track of the IEPs that are still being written. The organizer only has six pockets, so that means I can work on up to six IEPs at a time. I know I need to spend some extra time on paperwork if I fill up all of those slots! I move the folders to my filing cabinet once the IEP is written and ready to go for the meeting.

This system keeps my desk (mostly) clutter-free and makes it super easy to figure out what I need to work on next.

Here are some of my favorite paperwork organizers:

Step 5: Create a Routine

I build paperwork time into my schedule. I also schedule time once a month to plan out the next batch of IEPs.

I use Asana to keep track of these dates, but you could also add reminders to your Google Calendar or write in a paper planner.

Looking for more paperwork tips? Here are some of my favorite hacks!

marisha-mets-about-mobile

Hi there! I'm Marisha. I am a school-based SLP who is all about working smarter, not harder. I created the SLP Now Membership and love sharing tips and tricks to help you save time so you can focus on what matters most--your students AND yourself.

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