Do you need to be more productive or find more time in your day? Whether you are using the computer at home or at work, you can be more productive with a few simple and easy strategies. In fact, some of these strategies have nothing to do with your computer, and everything to do with organization!

Discover precious minutes in your day in these five ways:

1. De-clutter. One of the simplest time saving strategies is having a clean and simply organized workspace. When we think of our computer, we think of the monitor and CPU, but did you know that the space around your computer, especially your desk, is as important as the computer itself?

• When you keep your office space as tidy as possible, you can get more done because you won't be distracted by stopping to "clear a path" as you work. Furthermore, you will not have to waste your time searching through piles of paper to find an item.

• De-cluttering also means removing old software and files that are taking up too much space on the computer itself. You'll be surprised how much faster the machine will run when you've cleared all the junk off your computer!

• Another way to de-clutter is to delete items in the recycle bin and run the defragmentation task at least once a week.

2. Run anti-virus software every day. Viruses can slow down your computer or bring them to a complete stop. Obviously if your computer is unresponsive, you will lose precious time during your workday.

• Running anti-virus software and anti-spyware will help you make sure your computer is running at its very best so you don't lose momentum by waiting for a document to open.

• Viruses can cause you to lose data. Imagine losing all the business contacts, reports, and projects! Seriously consider implementing a back up schedule.

3. Organize. A little observed, but very effective, computer strategy is to organize your files and folders in such a way that everything you need is within reach. This way, you can move seamlessly from one task to another without wasting time searching for files.

• Place commonly used files or current projects in one folder on your desktop. Also, use full file names so you can easily find what you're looking for.

• Use a search tool like Google Desktop on the PC or Spotlight on the Mac to easily find other files not within reach.

4. Sweep the desktop on your computer. Many people don't give much thought to their desktop and they may have dozens of unused icons and downloads just taking up space. Keep only the files, folders, and programs you frequently use on your desktop. Another way to handle these extra icons is to create a new folder on the desktop for each type of program.

5. Learn the shortcuts. Set a goal to learn something new about the software tools you use the most. There are plenty of options hidden in menus and keyboard shortcuts that can save you lots of time and make you look like a genius to your boss or colleagues.

• Print out a list of common shortcuts and keep it beside your computer for easy reference. When you challenge yourself to learn these new tricks, you'll get faster and more productive over time.

These are all very simple computer strategies that will help you become more efficient and productive. When you incorporate even one of these strategies into your daily routine, you'll find that you truly can get more done in less time. Your boss and your bank account will thank you!