Things You'll Need:
- Index cards
- Post-It notes
- Coloring pencils
- Bulletin board
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Step 1
Use index cards to write down ideas that require several steps. This will allow you to break down the idea into manageable chunks of information and then move them around to see which order fits your schedule or lifestyle best. Make sure you number or mark the cards so they stay together, rather than mixing them up with steps for a different project or idea.
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Step 2
Take advantage of free online systems like ManageMyIdeas, where you can use virtual index cards to set up your ideas. Entries can also be tagged or labeled with keywords to make them easy to find or to group those that belong together. You can keep ideas private or share the password-protected page with associates and friends.
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Step 3
Prepare an outline or diagram where you can link thoughts into coherent ideas and plans. For example, you can write the word Rome (if you're thinking about traveling there) in big letters and then draw arrows in different directions for such subtopics as money concerns, organizing accommodations and places to visit. This will not only help you organize your ideas into a single place, but also will make it easier to see what's getting done and what still needs attention.
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Step 4
Create a list outlining your main ideas and skipping over details. Instead of writing pages of information about a topic, summarize the main idea into a single sentence. Keep it short and to the point. For example, "I have an idea for a book about traveling on a budget" or "I want my book to target college students." Resist the temptation of using single words (college, budget), as this may turn out to be confusing when you return to the list later.
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Step 5
Use Post-It notes in different tones or use colored pencils if you need something more visual. Use red or pink for ideas that need to be explored or are more urgent, and choose green for those that are on their way to being completed. Keep the notes together on a bulletin board or use a large poster to write on with the pencils.
