Think Deeper: Upgrade your HQ&A Notes with Up, Down, and Across (Pt 3)

Think Deeper: Upgrade your HQ&A Notes with Up, Down, and Across (Pt 3)

The value of the Highlight, Question, and Answer (HQ&A) technique comes down to the quality of the questions you ask, so being able to prime a state of mind that surfaces better questions will deepen your understanding of the text and make you a more original thinker.

To enhance this technique, I have discovered an incredible tool called Glasp that revolutionizes the way I highlight and take notes on the internet. Before Glasp, I would have two windows open in my browser, one with an article and the other with Roam taking notes. It was cumbersome but it worked. However, with Glasp, I can now seamlessly highlight and take notes in the browser window itself using the Glasp extension.

Glasp is more than just a read-it-later app; it is a read-it-now app. Instead of saving things for later, I can engage with the content in the present moment. If something stands out while reading an article, I can simply select it, highlight it, and take notes, all within the browser. This allows me to be fully present and engaged, rather than squirreling away a multitude of articles that I may or may not revisit in the future.

What sets Glasp apart is that every highlight and note I make is public on my Glasp profile. This means that anyone who follows me can see what I'm reading, what resonates with me, and my thoughts on it. Sharing your ideas in public not only helps you gain valuable feedback but also fosters original thinking. It eliminates the need to create a separate digital garden for die-hard fans of my thinking; I can simply direct them to Glasp.

Being part of the Glasp community exposes me to a diverse range of articles that I wouldn't typically come across in my algorithmic circles. This exposure broadens my horizons and allows me to discover unique and insightful content. Learning becomes more enjoyable when done alongside like-minded individuals, as we can share and explore interesting ideas together.

Moreover, Glasp makes it incredibly easy to curate and share the articles I'm reading. Instead of manually updating my website every week with the latest and most interesting articles, the Glasp widget embedded into Notion (where I host my website) automatically keeps it updated. This way, my audience not only appreciates my writing but also pays attention to what I'm reading and consuming. Curating content remains a significant part of my role as a creator, both in my weekly newsletter and on my website.

One of the most significant benefits of using Glasp is that it encourages me to read and take notes on a more extensive range of articles. Previously, I would save articles for later, only to find myself never getting around to reading them. With Glasp, I seize the moment to read, take notes, and have those notes readily available for future writing. It allows me to stay on top of my reading and ensures that I make the most of the knowledge I acquire.

To make the most of the HQ&A technique and enhance your note-taking process, here are three actionable pieces of advice:

1. Explore Glasp: Consider incorporating Glasp into your browsing routine. It provides a seamless and efficient way to highlight and take notes while reading articles on the internet. By being present in the moment and engaging with the content, you'll enhance your understanding and retain information better.

2. Embrace Public Sharing: Sharing your highlights and notes publicly on Glasp can have numerous benefits. It not only helps you receive feedback and insights from others but also promotes original thinking. Embrace the opportunity to learn and grow alongside a community of like-minded individuals.

3. Curate and Share: Utilize Glasp's features to curate and share the articles you read. Whether it's through a newsletter, blog, or social media, sharing your reading list and thoughts can provide value to your audience. It showcases your interests, expertise, and establishes you as a valuable resource in your domain.

In conclusion, upgrading your note-taking process with tools like Glasp can significantly enhance your understanding and engagement with the content you consume. By combining the power of HQ&A technique and Glasp's features, you can deepen your knowledge, foster original thinking, and actively contribute to a community of learners. So, take the leap, explore Glasp, and elevate your note-taking experience to new heights.