Transform scattered notes into lasting insights with the art of writing permanent notes.
Hi ,
Have you ever looked back at your notes and thought, “These are great… but now what?”
It’s a common problem. We jot down ideas, highlights, and takeaways, only to let them gather digital dust, unused and forgotten. That’s where permanent notes come in—they’re the secret to turning fleeting thoughts into lasting knowledge.
What Are Permanent Notes?
Permanent notes are the cornerstone of systems like Zettelkasten. They go beyond summaries or reminders; they’re concise, evergreen reflections on a single idea, written in your own words. Think of them as seeds for deeper thinking and future projects.
Unlike raw notes or summaries, permanent notes:
- Capture original ideas. They’re not just regurgitations of what you’ve read—they reflect your understanding and insights.
- Encourage connections. Each note is linked to others, creating a web of knowledge that grows richer over time.
- Stand the test of time. Because they focus on core ideas, they remain relevant long after you’ve forgotten the original source.
Why Do They Matter?
Permanent notes are where the magic happens. They’re how you bridge the gap between passive consumption and active creation.
When you write permanent notes:
- You’re learning actively. Writing forces you to engage deeply with the material.
- You’re building knowledge. Over time, your notes become a personal library of ideas, ready to inspire essays, blog posts, presentations, or even books.
- You’re thinking better. The act of linking notes helps you see patterns and make connections you wouldn’t notice otherwise.
How to Create a Permanent Note
Whether you’re using a Zettelkasten-inspired system, Notion, or just a notebook, the process is simple but powerful:
- Start with a fleeting note. These are quick ideas or highlights from what you’re reading, watching, or experiencing.
- Reflect on it. Ask yourself: Why does this matter? How does it connect to what I already know?
- Write in your own words. Summarize the key idea in a way that makes sense to you.
- Make it specific and atomic. Each note should focus on one idea, so it’s easy to link and reference later.
- Connect it. Link the note to related ideas in your system. For example, a note about “habit loops” might connect to notes on productivity or behavioral psychology.
A Simple Example
Let’s say you’re reading Atomic Habits by James Clear, and you come across this insight:
“Habits are easier to build when they fit into your existing routine.”
Here’s how a permanent note might look:
- Title: Habits Fit Existing Routines
- Note: Habits stick better when they’re anchored to a routine you already have. For example, pairing “brushing teeth” with “flossing.” This principle aligns with the idea of habit stacking in behavioral psychology.
- Links: [Habit Stacking], [Behavioral Triggers], [Building Daily Routines].
By creating and linking this note, you’re not just storing an idea—you’re building a foundation for future exploration.
Take the First Step
If you’re new to permanent notes, start small. Take one highlight from a book or article today and turn it into a permanent note. Over time, you’ll find that your notes don’t just sit there—they start working for you.
Do you already use permanent notes? Or maybe you’re considering starting? Hit reply—I’d love to hear about your approach!
Until next time,
Gav
P.S. If you’re curious about diving deeper into Zettelkasten or refining your note-taking system, keep an eye out—I’m working on something special to share with you soon. 😊
