Take Notes That Actually Help

Mindset & ProductivityBeginnerHome

90 minutes

5 steps

·Beginner

After 90 min: A personal note-taking system that drives learning, retention, and actionable insights

What you need

notebook-or-apppenpaperhighlighter

The 90-Minute Plan

Choose a System0–15 min

Learn Cornell Notes, Zettelkasten, or Outline method. Pick one and commit. The best system is one you'll actually use

Capture Active Concepts15–35 min

Don't transcribe. Listen for key ideas, definitions, and examples. Write in your own words to force understanding

Mark and Organize35–55 min

Use symbols (*, !, ?), color-coding, or indentation. Create headers and subheaders. Leave white space for review additions

Add Retrieval Cues55–75 min

Write questions on note margins or a separate page. Create summary statements. Link to previous notes. Build a personal knowledge web

Review and Refine75–90 min

Review notes within 24 hours. Highlight or rewrite key points. Create a summary at the end. Identify gaps in understanding

Pro Tip

The act of handwriting notes boosts memory better than typing. Review notes often rather than taking endless new notes

90 min·5 steps

After 90 min: You'll retain more from reading and create a personal knowledge base you actually use.

8,600

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90 min·5 steps

After 90 min: You'll sleep more soundly, need less time in bed, and wake with natural energy.

9,700

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90 min·5 steps

After 90 min: A crystallized action plan to build any habit with 90%+ success rate in the first 30 days

13,450

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90 min·5 steps

After 90 min: A personalized morning routine that energizes you and sets up your day for success

12,800

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