Office Administrative Assistant Practice Exam

What is the process of moving an active file to inactive status called?

1. Archiving

2. Purging

3. Filing

4. Documenting

The correct answer is: Purging

The process of moving an active file to inactive status is called archiving. Archiving refers to the method of saving data or files that are no longer actively used but are kept for reference, compliance, or historical reasons. By archiving inactive files, organizations can free up space in their active file systems and ensure that important information is preserved for future access. This practice is essential for efficient data management, as it helps keep the current working environment organized and allows for easier retrieval of older documents when needed. In contrast, purging typically involves permanently removing files that are no longer necessary, filing pertains to organizing documents within an active workspace, and documenting refers to the act of recording information. Each of these processes plays a different role in file management and data organization.