This week, we've been discussing how to read effectively and how to take notes to hone in our skills as authors. How can we do this in practice? How can we take these skills and implement them in our own process? One author to study, who does this really well, is my friend Ryan Holiday. Holiday, renowned for his books on philosophy and media strategy, utilizes a unique system known as a "commonplace book". Let's delve into how this system works and how it can aid your writing journey.
1. The Power of Physical Books
Holiday expresses a preference for physical books over digital copies. The tangible interaction with the text allows him to underline, highlight, and annotate directly onto the pages. This first step in note-taking is an active process, engaging with the text as he reads.
2. Transcribing to Index Cards
After finishing a book, Holiday takes the time to transcribe his in-book notes onto 4x6 index cards. Each card contains a single idea or insight, creating individual snapshots of knowledge. Importantly, he also includes a citation for the source of the idea on each card.
3. Categorization for Easy Access
These index cards are then organized into categories based on theme or topic. Rather than being rigid, these categories can evolve and shift over time. The cards are stored in physical boxes, creating a personal library of insights and ideas.
4. Regular Review and Application
Holiday regularly reviews his commonplace book, using it for both personal reflection and as a resource for his writing. This process allows him to easily access and incorporate ideas from his extensive reading into his work.
While this system works incredibly well for Ryan Holiday, it's crucial to remember that note-taking is a personal process. What works for one may not work for another. This system is a tool, and like any tool, its effectiveness depends on how you use it. Feel free to experiment and adapt it to better suit your writing habits and needs.
I hope this insight into Ryan Holiday's note-taking strategy inspires you to experiment with your own note-taking methods. Remember, the goal is to create a system that helps you capture, organize, and utilize your insights from reading.
-Andrew
The Indie Author Method
Comments