Find your next big topic by scanning your own notes
When I first tried this, I spread my digital cards across the screen and scrolled aimlessly—until I saw three notes about ‘decision fatigue’ linked to eight cards on routine building. That little cluster glowed like a neon sign.
I jotted down, “How can routine minimize decision fatigue?” and realized I already had the research and reflections to write a blog post. No brainstorming, no blank page. It felt like the slip-box whispered, “Here’s your topic.”
Within a day I had a rough outline and half a draft. The next morning I woke up excited to write, knowing the material was solidly backed by my own notes. It made me wonder why I ever started from scratch.
This method turns fingers-crossed deadlines into gentle nudges: the work you did all along surfaces naturally into the next project, making every note investment pay off.
Pick a quiet block this week to scroll through your slip-box, following links without hunting for anything in particular. Notice the clusters of ideas you’ve built up and jot down the questions they suggest. Then gather those related notes into an outline and start drafting—you’ll find the words flow because your notes have already done the heavy lifting.
What You'll Achieve
You’ll replace guesswork with evidence-backed topics, boosting confidence and motivation, while starting every paper with a rich pool of pre-written material.
Discover topics by scanning clusters
Block weekly scan time
Set aside 30 minutes each week to browse your slip-box without agenda. Just follow the chains of linked notes that catch your eye.
Spot growing clusters
Look for groups of notes tied together by multiple links. These clusters reveal questions and ideas you’ve returned to most.
Record emerging questions
For each cluster, write down one or two clear research questions or angles that seem both interesting and supported by your notes.
Select and draft outline
Pick the most promising question and gather its notes into an outline. Flesh out a rough structure before diving deep into drafting.
Reflection Questions
- What clusters in your slip-box have you ignored recently?
- Which repeat themes in your notes resonate most with you?
- How does starting from your own notes change your motivation?
Personalization Tips
- An entrepreneur reviews idea clusters in their slip-box to find the next startup angle.
- A parent scans behavior notes to develop a guide on effective routines.
- A creative writer flicks through story fragments to see which theme keeps resurfacing.
How to Take Smart Notes: One Simple Technique to Boost Writing, Learning and Thinking
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