Using an index card to manage tasks

Using an index card is a simple technique for helping you focus during the day. It is not a replacement for your task application or calendar, but an addition. The point is to help you be less distracted and keep your planned tasks front and center while you work.

Review your task application and calendar every morning (or the night before) to determine what needs to be done that day. Then, write the main things you want to accomplish on your index card.

Use your index card as you work during the day. Jot down things as they come up. You can even take brief notes from meetings or log what happens.

When you shut down for the day, open your task application and check off any completed tasks. Add any new tasks. Open your notes application and add any notes from your index card. This is an opportunity to clarify those notes and make them meaningful. Skip anything that does not provide future value.

You can use standard 3x5 index cards or find vertical To-Do index cards that work great for this.

You can also find a business card holder to hold your cards.

A search on Amazon returns various options, ranging from affordable solutions to more sophisticated, custom solutions.

If you want to go all out, Analog by Ugmonk has a high-quality card system that you can purchase. The Analog kit includes a walnut or maple card box with a magnetic lid to secure your other cards, and it also comes with Task cards for Today, Next, and Someday.