Keep a useful observation
A useful observation begins with a small question. Decide which result would help answer it before choosing what to collect.
The complete index
Notes
Seven self-contained readings, connected by the habit of keeping a question clear.
Start with a title that matches the question in front of you. Each note has a contents list and links back to the index; the sequence is a suggested route rather than a requirement.
Finish a small piece of work
An action finishing is useful evidence. The result that another person will use deserves its own check and a short route back.
Use a checklist for the parts worth remembering
A short checklist can protect an easily missed step. It works best when each item points to an observable result and a meaningful decision.
Revise a note without losing its context
A living note should become clearer as evidence changes. Preserve the reason for a decision without keeping every intermediate draft in the reader's path.
Choose a question before a source
A reading is easier to judge when you can say what you hope it will help you understand.
Give each annotation a job
A few specific marks can be more useful than a page covered in highlights.
Leave a clear place to return
A short closing note can make the next session easier to begin.