How To Organize Apps Into Folders

If your iPhone's home screen feels cluttered and overwhelming, creating folders to organize your apps can help. Folders not only make it easier to locate your favorite apps but also give your device a neat and streamlined appearance. This guide will walk you through the process of organizing apps into folders, along with tips for keeping them efficient and accessible.

Why Organize Apps Into Folders?

Organizing apps into folders offers numerous benefits:

a. Easy Navigation

Folders help you quickly find the apps you need without endless scrolling.

b. Aesthetically Pleasing

A well-organized home screen looks cleaner and is easier to use.

c. Saves Time

With related apps grouped together, you’ll spend less time searching for them.

d. Productivity Boost

Having categorized folders (e.g., Work, Social, Entertainment) allows you to focus on specific tasks.

e. Maximizes Screen Space

Folders let you store multiple apps in a single space, reducing the number of home screens.

Steps to Create Folders on Your iPhone

Organizing apps into folders is simple and intuitive.

Here’s how to do it:

Step 1: Access the Home Screen

1. Unlock your iPhone and go to the home screen where your apps are displayed.

Step 2: Enter Jiggle Mode

1. Tap and hold an app icon until all the apps start to wiggle.

2. Alternatively, press and hold on a blank area of the screen and select Edit Home Screen.

Step 3: Drag and Drop to Create a Folder

1. Drag one app icon and drop it on top of another app.

2. This automatically creates a folder containing both apps.

Step 4: Name the Folder

1. A default name, based on the app category, is assigned to the folder.

2. Tap the folder name to rename it (e.g., “Social Media,” “Games,” “Work Apps”).

3. Tap anywhere outside the folder to save the name.

Step 5: Add More Apps to the Folder

1. Drag additional apps into the folder.

2. You can repeat this process for other apps you want to group together.

Step 6: Exit Jiggle Mode

1. Press the Home button (on devices with a Home button) or tap Done in the top-right corner (on devices with Face ID).

Customizing Folders

Once you’ve created folders, you can customize them for better organization and usability.

Rename Folders

1. Tap the folder to open it.

2. Tap and hold the folder name to edit it.

3. Enter a new name and tap Done.

Rearrange Apps Inside Folders

1. Open the folder.

2. Drag and drop apps to rearrange their order.

Remove Apps From a Folder

1. Open the folder.

2. Drag the app outside the folder onto the home screen.

Move Folders

1. Tap and hold the folder icon on the home screen.

2. Drag it to a new location, including a different page or the dock.

Tips for Effective Folder Organization

To maximize the benefits of folders, follow these best practices:

Categorize Logically

Group apps based on their purpose or function, such as:

1. Social Media: Instagram, Twitter, Facebook.

2. Entertainment: Netflix, YouTube, Spotify.

3. Utilities: Calculator, Notes, Compass.

Prioritize Frequently Used Apps

Place your most-used apps on the first page of a folder or outside folders for quick access.

Use Emojis for Folder Names

Add emojis to folder names for a fun and visually distinct look (e.g., 🎮 for games or 📚 for education apps).

Keep It Simple

Avoid overloading folders. Aim for a manageable number of apps in each folder (e.g., 8–12 apps).

Limit the Number of Folders

Keep the number of folders reasonable to maintain a clean and organized home screen.

Advanced Organization Techniques

Take your app organization to the next level with these advanced tips:

Use App Library for Overflow

1. Introduced in iOS 14, the App Library automatically organizes your apps into categories.

2. Access the App Library by swiping to the last page of your home screen.

Create Themed Pages

Dedicate entire home screen pages to specific categories, such as:

Page 1: Work and productivity apps.

Page 2: Entertainment and gaming apps.

Page 3: Fitness and health apps.

Pair with Widgets

Use widgets alongside folders for quick access to essential functions (e.g., weather, calendar, or reminders).

Alphabetical Organization

For a structured approach, organize apps alphabetically within folders.

Managing Folders for Multiple Devices

If you own multiple Apple devices, such as an iPad or another iPhone, your app organization can sync across devices.

Enable App Organization Sync:

1. Go to Settings > [Your Name] > iCloud.

2. Turn on Home Screen & App Sync.

Benefits of Organized Apps

A well-organized iPhone offers several advantages:

a. Saves Time

Quickly locate apps without wasting time searching through pages.

b. Boosts Productivity

Focus on important tasks by grouping similar apps together.

c. Reduces Clutter

Keeps your home screen visually appealing and clutter-free.

d. Improves User Experience

Enhances your overall experience with a streamlined layout.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Issue 1: Unable to Create a Folder

Solution: Ensure you’re dragging one app directly over another.

Issue 2: Can’t Rename Folder

Solution: Tap and hold the folder name to edit it.

Issue 3: Folder Disappeared

Soution: Check all home screen pages or search for the folder in the App Library.

Issue 4: Apps Not Staying in Folders

Solution: Restart your iPhone and ensure iCloud syncing is enabled.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: How many apps can I add to a folder?

Folders can hold multiple pages of apps, with each page accommodating up to 9 apps.

Q2: Can I organize apps automatically?

The App Library in iOS 14 and later automatically organizes apps into categories.

Q3: Can I hide folders?

Folders can’t be hidden, but you can move them to the App Library or a less prominent home screen page.

Q4: What happens to folders when I reset my home screen layout?

Resetting the home screen layout removes folders and arranges apps in their default order.

Conclusion

Organizing apps into folders is a simple yet powerful way to declutter your iPhone and enhance usability. By grouping similar apps, renaming folders effectively, and leveraging additional features like widgets and the App Library, you can create a home screen layout that’s both functional and visually appealing.

Whether you’re prioritizing productivity, minimizing distractions, or simply looking for a cleaner interface, folders are a must-have organizational tool. Take the time to arrange your apps today and enjoy the benefits of a well-organized iPhone!