Notetaking in 2022: Strategies for Digital Writers

Notetaking in 2022: Strategies for Digital Writers

In today's digital age, notetaking has become an essential tool for writers and knowledge workers. The act of jotting down ideas, observations, and insights helps us organize our thoughts and retain valuable information. As a digital writer, I have personally experienced the transformative power of notetaking in my daily routine. This year alone, I have written more than 80 essays, one every day, and it has changed the way I see myself as a writer.

When it comes to notetaking, the action itself is driven by the need for observation. We take notes to capture our observations, whether it's a thought-provoking article, an inspiring podcast, or a stimulating conversation. Notetaking allows us to distill these observations into tangible form, creating a repository of knowledge that we can refer back to whenever needed.

One app that has revolutionized my notetaking journey is Scrintal. It has replaced the combination of Roam Research and Evernote, becoming my go-to app for personal knowledge management (PKM). Scrintal offers a seamless experience for organizing and retrieving notes, allowing me to focus on the creative process rather than getting lost in a cluttered interface. This shift has been the most pivotal moment in my two-year journey as a digital writer.

Another intriguing platform that caught my attention is Glasp. It functions as a social highlighter and community, where writers and knowledge workers can share their highlights with others. This concept of collective knowledge sharing adds a new dimension to notetaking, fostering collaboration and expanding our horizons. Although I have only recently started using Glasp more frequently, I can already feel its potential to grow on me. Perhaps there is even a possibility of integration with Readwise, a popular app that helps organize and revisit book highlights.

While exploring various notetaking tools, it is crucial to invest in apps that save time rather than consume it. The purpose of notetaking is to simplify our lives, not complicate them. Look for features that streamline the process and enhance productivity. This way, you can focus more on writing and less on managing your notes.

In addition to choosing the right tools, it is essential to establish intentional and consistent notetaking habits. Make it a daily practice to write, write, and write. The more you engage with the act of notetaking, the more natural and effective it becomes. Treat your notes as valuable assets, capturing insights that can fuel your creativity and enhance your writing.

As we delve deeper into the world of notetaking, it is worth acknowledging the shortcomings of certain apps. Evernote, once hailed as the Swiss army knife of notetaking apps, has unfortunately lost the trust and confidence of many users, including myself. While the exact reasons for this loss of trust may vary, it is disheartening to witness the decline of a once-mighty tool.

In conclusion, notetaking has become an indispensable part of the digital writer's toolkit. By embracing tools like Scrintal and exploring innovative platforms like Glasp, we can enhance our notetaking experience and foster collaboration within the writing community. Remember to invest in apps that save time, establish intentional habits, and prioritize consistent writing. Notetaking is not just about capturing information; it is a journey of self-discovery and growth. So, grab your digital pen and start writing your way to success in 2022 and beyond.