What are some best-practice methodologies for your work?
Getting the tools is only the first step. In order to make best use of your software and keep track of your files, you will need to figure out an organization method and note-taking system! These resources can help you get an idea for "best practices" when creating, backing up, and annotating your resources. By following these guidelines, you can ensure that you never lose, misplace, or forget important information about your files again.
Use an External Hard Drive
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How to Add an External Hard Drive - WikiHowBacking up your documents and research into an external hard drive is an important step in keeping your work safe. If you can, store your hard drive in a safe location away from your computer, in case of a fire or other emergency. If you are looking to learn the basics about choosing and using an external hard drive, this WikiHow article is an accessible place to look!
Scrivener
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User ManualUse this link to download a user manual for Scrivener, and check out it's many useful and customizable features!
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Jumpstart Your Next Writing Project with Scrivener: The Writing App for Organized, Efficient WritersThis article by Jamie Irish on Zapier gives a good introduction and overview of how the Scrivener application works, and how you can use it to get the most out of your writing process.
You can do a lot to customize the way you visualize information with Scrivener, but one option is to use a "Corkboard" mode, and easily arrange and modify your writing visually.
Image from Jamie Irish's article.
You can also use the customizable "Composition mode" to dim the rest of your screen and escape from distractions. Scrivener gives you the option to add in features that may help you stay organized, without having to leave Composition mode.
Image from Jamie Irish's article.
Keep Your Work Safe!
Have you heard of the "Three Copy Rule"? Make sure to keep your research materials backed up in three places, for example on the Cloud, on an external hard drive, and on Box and Google Drive.
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Check out this "Data Notes" guide!Sandi Caldrone, Research Data Librarian with the University Library, compiled this easy and informative guide to safe data practices. Follow these comprehensive tips to protect your work and personal resources!
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File Naming Convention TemplateLogically and carefully naming your files will ensure that you can always find them easily. Follow this guide to learn more!
Note-Taking Tools
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Notion
Notion is a note-taking and productivity tool that provides a personalized workspace. It offers an array of sample templates that can be reorganized based on individual needs. Recently, it has integrated AI tools which enable users to enhance or translate texts with a single click. -
Obsidian.md
Obsidian is a powerful writing application that operates offline, thus reducing concerns about data syncing associated with cloud-based options. The Graph tool and Canvas plugins are particularly useful for visualizing connections between your notes and creating interactive mind maps. -
Scrivener
Scrivener is designed to help writers manage long writing projects such as novels, theses, or non-fiction books. It provides various templates and editing tools to streamline the writing process. Additionally, it supports export in multiple formats, accommodating necessary citation styles.
Organization Tools
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Evernote
Evernote is a classic favorite app and computer program. It allows you to organize all kinds of information, from to-do lists, projects, notes about research, spreadsheets. Available offline and with a built-in sync feature across your devices, as well as an AI search function to make searching easier, Evernote can be a great option. However, you do pay on a month-by-month subscription basis, and the costs have been increasing. -
DEVONthink
DEVONthink is an extremely powerful tool to use to organize your documents and research! It is a one-time purchase which gets you a lot for your money. It is set up as a database and allows you to collect, edit, annotate, analyze, connect, and file your documents in a customizable organization system. It works with all kinds of documents, so it is a great and affordable catch-all option for scholars! -
Spreadsheets
Never underestimate the power of a good spreadsheet! Excel, Google Sheets, and Pages all have great options for you to use to organize your notes about documents, especially while researching in archives or keeping your information and thoughts organized along specific categories. UIUC provides access to Microsoft 365, so Excel may be a good choice for you. Click on the link to access Excel video training and boost your skills.