Plain Text

Plain text note-taking is presented as a durable habit because the notes stay readable across devices, apps and operating systems. The post favors a simple workflow where content comes first and tools stay secondary, with files kept as separate documents instead of in a database.

It also says plain text supports quick notes, team writing and easy migration between apps, while Markdown is the only extra formatting the author accepts. The limits are that the experience depends on supporting tools and that it can be harder to maintain discipline without built-in rules.

Reading notes

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• Argues that taking notes in plain text is a habit that pays off over time.
• Describes the change from several note tools to a simpler workflow based on plain text.
• The central idea is to treat content as data first and use tools on top of that.
• The author prefers separate files instead of notes locked into a database and export formats.
• Direct manipulation of files allows different apps to coexist, change, or be replaced without locking the notes to a platform.
• For team writing, the criterion is to use whatever best facilitates the group’s work.
• Plain text is described as universal, lightweight, searchable, portable and easy to manipulate.
• The text highlights that this format works even without web servers or Internet.
• The only additional formatting accepted is Markdown, because it remains readable to humans.
• Among the disadvantages, the text points to dependence on tools and greater difficulty in maintaining discipline.
• The references gathered include articles, collectives and tools related to plain text, workflows, markdown and knowledge organization.