Taking smart notes is a structured method to enhance learning, creativity, and writing by processing information actively through a system like the Zettelkasten (slip-box) method. The steps are:
- Make fleeting notes: Quickly jot down informal, temporary ideas or highlights while reading or learning, mainly as memory aids. These are short and can be discarded after processing.
- Make literature notes: As you read, write down key points or insights in your own words with bibliographic details. These notes summarize what you learned, are selective, concise, and stored separately.
- Make permanent notes: Convert literature notes into clear, self-standing notes with your own interpretation and full sentences, relevant to your interests or projects. Each note captures one idea and can be linked to other notes.
- Organize notes in a slip-box (digital or physical): File permanent notes under related topics and link them together to enable connections among ideas.
- Develop topics and write from notes: Use the interconnected notes system to explore ideas, generate drafts, and write scholarly or creative work.
Smart notes improve retention, understanding, and idea generation compared to simple highlighting or copy-pasting. Writing notes in your own words and linking ideas actively builds knowledge over time.
