Harnessing OneNote for Enhanced Content Creation and Productivity
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Chapter 1: Introduction to OneNote as a Content Creator
OneNote is a highly effective application that has been available for many years; it was first introduced in 2003! Personally, I've relied on OneNote for a long time, utilizing it for various purposes such as studying for my GCSEs, taking university notes, and managing projects. Currently, I depend on OneNote for a multitude of tasks, including content research, scripting for YouTube, and maintaining a technical knowledge repository. I also consider it a valuable extension of my memory, which I will elaborate on later in this article.
Why I Prefer OneNote Over Other Notetaking Apps
There are numerous notetaking applications available, such as EverNote, Apple Notes, Samsung Notes, and even Google Keep. While each of these has its merits, I find Google Keep to be less of a notetaking tool and more of a quick jotting app—a sort of temporary holding space for thoughts. OneNote, however, has been a long-standing companion in my life, and despite trying other apps, I always return to it for its impressive features, especially on tablets.
Using OneNote on my iPad Pro, combined with my Apple Pencil and a PaperLike screen protector, allows me to have a fantastic writing experience. The ability to take notes, outline my videos, and make annotations during meetings and online courses is incredibly beneficial!
My iPad Pro: The Center of My Digital Life
Computers have evolved dramatically over the years. My childhood memories include using a family desktop, but now I rely on my iPad Pro as my primary computing device.
One of the standout features of OneNote is its cross-platform compatibility. I can access my notes on my iPad, Pixel 6 Pro, desktop, web browser, and even my smartwatch! This flexibility is invaluable for someone like me, who operates in a multi-device ecosystem. Although there are excellent applications available for the iPad, such as GoodNotes and Notability, I find their lack of cross-platform functionality limiting.
Another advantage of OneNote is its well-designed interface, which allows me to easily jot down notes while on the move. For instance, I can write a script on my Pixel 6 Pro without any hassle.
OneNote in Action for Content Creation
One of the primary ways I utilize OneNote is for content creation. It aids me in organizing blog posts and YouTube videos, as well as conducting thorough research on topics to ensure I provide accurate and valuable information.
Here are the specific reasons I rely on OneNote as a content creator:
I Draft My Scripts in OneNote
Creating YouTube videos involves a considerable amount of scripting for me. This practice ensures I include all necessary details and critical information that might slip my mind during filming. I format my scripts by typing spoken content (a-roll) in bold and leaving product closeups or demonstrations (b-roll) in regular text. This approach, inspired by MKBHD, has proven extremely effective. If you’re an aspiring YouTuber, I recommend checking out his Skillshare course for more insights.
I've experimented with various writing tools like Google Docs, EverNote, and Apple Notes, but OneNote consistently offers the best experience. It allows me to draft scripts seamlessly from any device I have on hand.
Currently, I maintain a dedicated notebook specifically for YouTube scripts, organized by product categories such as productivity tools, audio products, and Google Pixel content.
I Rely on OneNote for Research
Research is a fundamental aspect of content creation, enabling me to provide valuable and verified information. OneNote excels in this area, particularly for note-taking and data analysis.
Its multi-platform availability means I can conduct research and take notes from virtually anywhere. For example, during last week’s Apple Event, I found myself on a train returning from my day job. I managed to watch the event on my Pixel 6 Pro, which performed excellently, and thanks to the split-screen feature on Android, I could take notes in OneNote simultaneously.
OneNote also offers a fantastic feature that allows me to import and annotate PDFs using my Apple Pencil, a tool I found invaluable during my university days and still use extensively. I often revisit academic papers to reference expert opinions in my discussions.
Creating Content in OneNote - YouTube
This video explores how to effectively use OneNote for content creation, including tips and tricks to enhance your workflow.
I Use OneNote as My Second Brain
As a content creator, having a 'second brain' is essential for me since I can’t retain every thought that comes to mind. This concept was introduced to me during my first dissertation writing. A fellow graduate advised, "Always carry a small notepad and pen; ideas can strike at the most unexpected moments, such as during a casual outing."
After reading Tiago Forte's book on building a second brain, I began to embrace this concept more seriously. Previously, I used the default Notes app on my phone for spontaneous ideas, but I transitioned to OneNote for its accessibility and better organization.
However, I am currently considering moving my second brain to Google Keep, as it seems more suited for quick notes. Google Keep is faster and simpler than OneNote, which can sometimes lag, causing me to forget my ideas before the app loads.
In Conclusion
OneNote is indeed an underrated application that doesn’t receive as much attention from content creators as it should. I appreciate its cross-platform compatibility and the organized way it allows me to manage my content, akin to a digital ring binder!
My only concerns with OneNote are its occasional slow performance and the dated interface of the Office 360 version for Windows. In contrast, the OneNote app available in the Microsoft Store offers a smoother and more satisfying user experience.
Do you use a notetaking app? Which one do you prefer and why? I look forward to your thoughts!
Microsoft OneNote - How to Make a Template - YouTube
This video provides a step-by-step guide on creating templates in OneNote, perfect for streamlining your note-taking process.
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