43 Folders

43 Folders feed subscription icon - Shiny!Time, Attention, and Creative Work. After 4 years and a lot of productivity pr0n, we’re shifting gears. Re-learn how to use 43 Folders. Then back to work. [»]

”What’s 43 Folders?”
43Folders.com is Merlin Mann’s website about finding the time and attention to do your best creative work.

Hipster PDA for writers, others

A writer’s “Hipster” | D_I_Y Planner

Over on DIYPlanner.com, SusanBeth outlines how she’s created a writer’s version of the Hipster PDA.

The patterns here might actually be quite useful for many index card fans—she’s put together a handy, lo-fi system that reminds me a bit of a homemade Trapper Keeper, or—here’s where my age starts to show—its precursor, the Mead Data Center. I also like the tabs and “envelope” ideas, and of course, there’s the key pattern: reviewing at the end of day and shunting anything new back into the “home base” system.

“Pockets” — Take two index cards and tape them together along both long sides and the ‘bottom’. Try to use tape that is less tearable than scotch tape. I was able to “borrow” some cloth based ‘bookbinders’ tape for mine. Adhesive tape (like for bandages) might work well. For these I did use colored index cards, but I could have simply colored them.

My green pocket holds a folded blank check & a $20.

My blue pocket holds a half-dozen postage stamps and self-adhesive address labels.

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DouglasJohnston's picture

Apparently, SusanBeth heard the clamouring...

Apparently, SusanBeth heard the clamouring for a picture of her little Hipster PDA. She’s posted one to the Kit Images Gallery with a bit more description for those interested.

all my best, dj

About Merlin Mann

Merlin Mann's picture

Bio

Merlin Mann is an independent writer, speaker, and broadcaster. He’s best known for being the guy who started the website you’re reading right now. He lives in San Francisco, does lots of public speaking, and helps make cool things like You Look Nice Today. Also? He looks like this, answers questions, and has something like a life.

Merlin’s favorite thing he’s written recently is a short essay called, “Better.”

 
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The Podcast Feed

Inbox Zero

The original 43 Folders series looking at the skills, tools, and attitude needed to empty your email inbox — and then keep it that way. Don’t miss the free video of Merlin’s Inbox Zero presentation.

Making Time

3-part series on attention management for artists and makers. Read Bad Correspondence, The Job You Think You Have, and One Clear Line.