"De-Automating My Reading Notes: A New and Better Way For Capturing My Reading Notes in Obsidian"

"De-Automating My Reading Notes: A New and Better Way For Capturing My Reading Notes in Obsidian"

Automation has become a crucial aspect of our daily lives, allowing us to perform tasks efficiently and effortlessly. From automated emails to smart home devices, technology has made our lives easier in many ways. However, when it comes to certain activities, such as capturing reading notes, automation may not always be the best approach.

I have always been an avid reader, constantly seeking knowledge and insights from various books. In the past, I relied on automated tools to capture my reading notes. I would highlight passages on my e-reader or use sticky notes to mark important sections. The automation was nice and efficient, but it was also detached and remote. The notes felt distant, and I frequently never even reviewed them.

Realizing the limitations of automation, I decided to take a different approach to capturing my reading notes. Instead of relying solely on automated tools, I started taking notes manually. This allowed me to actively engage with the text, understand and filter what really mattered to me. It was a way to connect with the author's ideas and grasp the concepts on a deeper level.

Here is my new and improved process for capturing reading notes:

1. Marking up the book: First, I read the book and mark it up along the way. I underline important passages, write notes in the margins, and make connections between different sections. This active reading process helps me internalize the information and identify key points.

2. Creating a source note: Second, I create a source note for the book. This acts as a kind of map of content (MOC) for that particular book. In this source note, I outline the main themes, summarize key concepts, and jot down any initial thoughts or questions that arise while reading. This source note serves as a guide for further exploration and note-taking.

3. Reviewing and curating the notes: Third, I review the notes I took and decide which ones are worth capturing as separate linked notes. Some passages may be worth noting in the source MOC, while others may be safe to ignore. This process of culling and curating ensures that only the most valuable and relevant notes are captured.

4. Updating and organizing: When I finish reading a book, I do a couple of things. I update my Goodreads account to keep track of my reading progress and share recommendations with others. I also update my list of books I've read since 1996, a personal record of my reading journey. Lastly, I go back to the book and review the flags or bookmarks I've left. If I don't think a note is worth keeping or recording, I'll remove the flag. This helps me prioritize and identify the notes that I want to capture.

5. Manual note-taking in Obsidian: Instead of creating my notes in Obsidian right away, I take the time to reflect and assess the value of each note. Experimentation has taught me that if I wait until I finish the book, some of the passages I marked may not be as significant as I initially thought. By manually typing my notes into Obsidian, I am actively engaging with the content and ensuring that the notes resonate with me on a deeper level.

By following this new approach, I have found that my reading notes have become more meaningful and impactful. The process of culling, curating, and manually typing in my notes allows me to truly absorb and internalize the information. It helps me understand and connect the dots between different concepts and ideas.

Additionally, instead of using Post-It flags or sticky notes, I now use Kindle bookmarks to mark the notes that I want to keep. This has been a more effective method for me, as I can easily access and review my marked passages without the need for physical markers.

One of the challenges I have encountered in capturing reading notes is with audiobooks. As someone who enjoys consuming information through different mediums, I often listen to audiobooks. However, gathering notes for audio books can be challenging. Unlike e-books or physical books, there is no easy way to highlight or mark passages. One solution I have found is to listen to the audiobook while having a physical notebook or a note-taking app open. This allows me to jot down key points or quotes as I listen, ensuring that I capture the most important information.

In conclusion, while automation has its benefits in terms of efficiency, it may not always be the best approach when it comes to capturing reading notes. Taking notes manually allows for a deeper understanding and connection with the text. By following a process of active reading, culling, curating, and manually typing notes into a platform like Obsidian, we can ensure that our reading notes are meaningful, insightful, and truly resonate with us.

Actionable advice:

1. Embrace active reading: Instead of passively highlighting or underlining passages, actively engage with the text. Take the time to reflect on the content, make connections, and jot down your thoughts and questions.

2. Curate your notes: Don't feel the need to capture every single passage or note. Take the time to review and curate your notes, selecting only the most valuable and relevant ones to record.

3. Experiment and find what works for you: Everyone's note-taking process is unique. Experiment with different methods and tools to find what works best for you. Whether it's using physical markers, digital tools, or a combination of both, find a process that helps you truly understand and connect with the material.

By adopting these practices, you can enhance your reading experience, deepen your understanding, and create a more meaningful collection of reading notes.