Keep useful notes

Notes are a place for the thought that is bigger than a highlight. Use them for a question, a summary in your own words, or a connection to something else you are working on.

Keep notes close to their source

A short note is easier to trust when you can still see the page that inspired it. Add enough context that it makes sense when you return weeks later.

Use a simple pattern

Try one of these prompts:

• “This matters because…”
• “I want to check…”
• “This connects to…”

The goal is not to write a second book. It is to leave yourself a useful trail.

When a note is ready to leave

If a thought becomes part of a project, share or export it when you are ready. Until then, it can stay in the warm, unfinished space beside your reading.