File coding is a shorthand identification of the major and minor group and folder number to identify where records are located and simplify routine filing and retrieval. File codes on folder labels and in File Plans should mean something to users and help identify the contents of the file.

For example, a folder label has 3.CON 2 entered in the upper left corner. This file code represents the second file folder in the minor group Contracts (CON), in major group number 3, which may be business or project records that include contracts as a minor group. The label may also contain the contractor's name, the contract number or other identifying information.

The following table lists acronyms used in file codes of minor groups found in many offices. Create other codes as needed.