When an idea appears during a busy task, it is tempting to record only the possible answer. Later, the note may be difficult to interpret because the original problem and its constraints are missing.
Write the question beside the idea. Include the situation that prompted it and the smallest detail that would help you resume the thought. This makes the note easier to evaluate when the first impression has faded.
Return to one unfinished note and ask whether the question still matters. You may discover that the answer has changed, or that the question now has a clearer shape. Capturing uncertainty can be more useful than collecting confident fragments.
Picture this situation.
Consider writing Why does this step take so long before collecting possible tools. The original question helps you judge whether a suggestion addresses the task.
A second way to look.
A habit is easier to maintain when its ending is obvious. Decide what done looks like before adding another step to the routine.
- Write the question beside the idea.
- Include the situation that prompted it.
- Revisit the question before committing to an answer.
Follow a related question
Name the question the prototype should answer.
A prototype for the uncertain partCheck the actual interactive area.
Touch targets with room to moveKeep learning
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