Section 2 · Working Practice

File Naming Conventions

Definition

A consistent, predictable system for naming files so anyone (including future you) can identify content, version, and status at a glance.

Why it matters

Inconsistent naming is the single biggest cause of lost work and wasted time in a creative workflow — files get overwritten, versions get mixed up, and collaborators can’t find what they need.

Example

“orara_posterA_draft01_2026-09-12.ai” tells you the creator, project, version, and date without opening the file.

Note

This only really sinks in once naming has a consequence. The first time your file collides with a classmate’s in a shared folder teaches it in one sitting; hearing it stated as a rule in week one rarely does.