Notes From The Third Dynasty

I am working with my notes app this morning. On my phone, I use a Post-it note app to capture references, links, and to-do items. I discovered these notes might as well be from the walls of the Pheros crypt. Either the moment to use them has long since passed, or I have moved on to the next thing already. So, I am building a habit of sorting and acting on my notes better.

Capturing notes is essential for anyone who wants to remember important information, ideas, or insights. But it's not enough to simply jot down your thoughts and ideas. Think of all the phone numbers you have written down and have no idea who or what they go to. So, you also need to be able to use them effectively later on. Here are some of the best ways to capture notes and make the most of them:

Use a note-taking app:

Try a couple and pick one. I have settled on a Post-it style app on my phones, one for work and one for me, and Notion. Some popular options include Evernote, OneNote, and Google Keep. I would not use more than one or two apps. These apps allow you to search and find notes later on quickly, and many also offer features like tags, folders, and reminders to help you stay organized.

Writing by hand:

Studies have shown that writing by hand can help improve memory and retention, so consider using a notebook or planner to capture your notes. Make sure to date your entries and use clear headings or bullet points to help you quickly find information later. Mine, you may have read, has a name, the Mentaculus from a Cohen Brothers Film, The Serious Man.

Use voice memos:

If writing isn't your thing, consider using your phone or another device to record voice memos. This can be an excellent option for capturing ideas on the go or when you're out and about. Then, pull in the AI feature on your TV and phone. For example, I use Google to set reminders for things my husband asks me to do. There is no worse feeling than letting down the one you love.

Review your notes regularly:

To make the most of them, review them regularly. This can help reinforce the information in your memory and make it easier to spot patterns or connections between ideas. Unfortunately, this is where I fall. I am not building the connection habit to pull my thoughts together coherently.

Use your notes to take action:

Finally, don't forget to use your messages! Whether following up on a task or using an idea to inform a project, the real value of note-taking comes from putting your ideas into action.