How I use Apple Notes to create a content-generating machine
I have developed a system that allows me to post content on various platforms and social media channels
I have tried several productivity apps and cutting-edge platforms to create a place to capture my ideas on the go; eventually, I have settled on Apple Notes because it's simple, it’s right there, it's free, and it works.
Through the years, I have developed a system that allows me to post content on various platforms and social media channels daily without wasting time chasing shiny objects and messing with complicated systems like Notion and others.
The way I use Apple Notes is pretty simple. I create folders and capture ideas on the go, mostly when walking my dog.
For example, if I think of an idea that would fit for Substack Notes, I immediately jot it down before it disappears, then tag it to assign it to the relevant folder.
Easy peasy!
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The power of smart folders
The introduction of small folders a few years ago made Apple Notes even more powerful. I try to convert most of my folders into “smart folders” where I can use tags.
This is how it works: whenever I get an idea, let's say for Subsatck notes, I immediately jot it down in Apple in the "Quick Notes" folder, and then I use the tag that I have already assigned to the smart folder that I want it to go to.
So, while walking my dog, I would get an idea like: "Tools you need for self-publishing." I would jot that down and then insert the already assigned tag #substacknotes.
This will immediately place it in my Substack Notes folder without me looking for the folder and manually moving it there. This saves me time, reduces any necessary friction, and seamlessly links my notes.
Setting up your smart folder might seem like a lot of work, but it is not. You customize your smart folders once; then voila, you are done.
You capture your ideas on the go and have a content-generation machine you can use daily.
You are no longer staring at the screen every day while wondering what you will post about.
So, what's your content creation routine like?
Do you have a favorite tool or technique for capturing ideas?
Share your experiences in the comments below!
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Love that idea - I tried many tools and always came back to Apple Notes. It only requires a bit of discipline how to write and name the notes - then it‘s easy to find them again.
I use it to note the discussions when meeting fellow professionals for my #42coffees series on LinkedIn before writing that post. Easy!
I love Apple notes but have since switched to OneNote. Both are very handy for jotting down ideas on the go for sure