The way I research (academic or otherwise) is increasingly incompatible with the tools I have. Reams of handwritten notebooks, and hundreds of word docs vs a highly tagged website only add to my self-created confusion. I'm drawn to Tinderbox software as a possible solution, but as an adamant PC user I'm locked out. How do you order your research? / How to write-up my PhD now my brain is fried? [more inside]
posted by 0bvious on Mar 16, 2012 - 10 answers

For those that keep a journal/diary/sketch book: When you start a new book, how do you continue to track and use the good ideas and projects in your old books that you'd like to pursue? [more inside]
posted by ooklah on Jan 16, 2012 - 8 answers

How do you digitize your research notebook? I've got a small notebook that I carry around with me with about 2 years' worth of notes, ideas, references for papers or books, and scribbles from various meetings, conversations, etc. I had a heart attack moment today when I thought I'd lost it. What's the best way to organize all this stuff digitally? I'm on a Mac, if it makes a difference, but general advice is appreciated. [more inside]
posted by one_bean on May 19, 2010 - 15 answers

One thing: Why is it I come up with all these ideas in the shower. What about the shower make it easier to focus? How can I replicate the shower without having to take a shower? If I can't replicate the shower: Is there a good (water proof?) erasable marker for making notes on the shower wall? Or is that all just crazy?
posted by metajc on Jun 4, 2009 - 34 answers

I want software which will allow me to capture text thoughts at work, to a remote web location - quickly, discreetly and privately. [more inside]
posted by therubettes on Apr 24, 2008 - 41 answers

I've been noting down ideas for a potential novel for over a year. Problem is, I now have so many that it's tough to keep track of it all. How can I organise and consolidate them into something workable? [more inside]
posted by Acey on Dec 30, 2006 - 27 answers

Please teach me how to use a notebook. Yes, the paper kind. I've tried to go paperless, but I find that there are too many constraints to taking notes on a computer. I like the advantages of using a notebook: freedom, doodling, portable, easy to page-through and review. Ideas just flow when I use paper and a pen. I find that I don't review notes kept on my computer. With a notebook, I can page through a find ideas and thoughts from last month. With that said, I have a hard time sticking with using the notebook. [more inside]
posted by jpep on Apr 19, 2006 - 20 answers