First we should probably start with the basic abbreviations that you will see frequently.
SS= Smart Source ( Sunday paper insert)
RP= Red Plum " "
PG= P&G (This usually comes out once a month but is also another insert in the Sunday paper)
GM= General Mills (Sunday paper insert)
OOP= Out of Pocket (What you will actually pay there at the register)
MC or MQ= manufacturers coupon
IP= Internet Printable
B1G1= Buy one get one
ECB= Extra Care Bucks
RR= Register Rewards
This is a list of the most commonly used at the moment.
Organization of Coupons:
Different people prefer different organizational types. I have tried 2 at this point and both had pros and cons.
The first is the file folder technique:
As you get your coupons out of your paper write the date across the front and file those coupons in a folder for that week. They say to save about 12 weeks of coupons. As you make your list there will be a date such as SS 3/10, so you will go to the 3/10 folder and pull out your Smart Source.
The next is the Baseball card system:
You get a binder, I currently use a 3 in. but you can start smaller if you like. Then fill it with baseball card holders. You can use dividers to seperate into catergories and can make as many catergories and sub-categories as you like. You cut out your coupons and file them accordingly.
*Tip that one of my fellow couponers had was she cuts out only what she knows she will use and files the others.
Pros and Cons of both:
File Folders:
Pros: no clipping until you need the coupons
Less time
Easy to find the week you need
Can be put in a filing cabinet out of the way.
You can find q-pins by dates given on the sites
*I bought a small box so that I could still carry them with me if need be
Cons:
If you are out without your coupons and find clearance or sales you don't have your coupons with you
If you do happen to have the q-pins w/ you there may be no way for you to find out where the q-pin is located
Baseball Card Holders:
Pros:
Easy to find the actual coupon not just the week
Your coupons are on hand if you happen to find a sale.
Are contained in a binder so it can be put wherever or kept in the car
Cons:
It does take time to cut the coupons out
Might not know what week your coupons are from if someone asks
Either are a great way to organize, just depends on what style you like better.
*This is a work in Progress so more info will be added and/ or possibly updated as I continue. I am going ahead and making the info available though so it can be used for those with questions.
