by Reiko Yukawa

Created on: March 19, 2007   Last Updated: May 08, 2007

Even the average computer these days has the hard drive space to contain hundreds of mp3 files. After months of downloading or ripping using various programs, it can be quite a chore to collect and organize all those files. Here are some tips to accomplish this task.

The first thing to do is to choose a filename format, a folder structure, and a tagging style. A set filename format will allow your filenames to be searchable as well as providing an aesthetic look to the list of mp3s in each folder. Some people are not bothered by underscores in random places, but really, having all your files titled consistently is one of the most important things you can do to have your files appear more organized.

A set folder structure allows your files to be browseable by genre, artist, or album. It is usually best to work from the broadest division down. Creating separate folders for genre or language first, then subfolders for artists is one method that works well for a library consisting of a few artists from various countries or genres. Another method for a primarily ripped library with many artists is to have a separate folder for each album. Whatever method you choose, make sure that your folders are titled as carefully and consistently as your filenames.

Finally, a set tagging style will ensure that all of the relevant information about the file is embedded within it in case the filename is accidentally changed. It will also make the files appear organized within your media player, similar to the way a set filename structure makes your files appear organized within your folders. Make sure the title and the artist at minimum are present in the tag. If the artist/performer is unknown, use the most relevant source for the track instead, such as TV series title, composer, or even album title. Optional components include album title, release year, track number, genre, composer, etc.

One very useful tool for organizing mp3s is a good media player such as Winamp or Windows Media Player because they have library functions. They can search for all the media files on your computer (although it is best to restrict the search to the folder where you have gathered all your files), sort by any variable, and display lists and sublists. Using a media library, it is easy to tag your files, see if any files are mislabeled, and search for particular subsets of your files.

Before using a library, take the first two steps above: title your files and place them in the folders where they should go. The media library can handle existing files, but whenever a file is retitled, moved, or added, it will have to update its database. Both Winamp and Windows Media Player can periodically check a given list of folders to search for any changes, however.

Above all, be consistent! Whatever you do, stick to your organization. It will be much easier to find and access your files if you do. If you make any changes, carry them through completely to all the relevant files. It is much harder to carry through a change than it is to implement it in the first place though. Once you have your library set up with all your files, it is easy to add more files in the same style, so maintaining your setup is much easier than creating it in the first place.

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