Maximizing Productivity with a Nobo Board for Writers
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Chapter 1: The Basics of Writing Organization
In a world filled with advanced apps and software designed for writers, sometimes it’s wise to revert to simpler methods. To manage my various writing endeavors effectively, I recently swapped out all digital tools for a straightforward T-card system.
If you’re unfamiliar with T-cards, take a moment to familiarize yourself. I’ll wait…
Now that you’re acquainted, let’s delve into how I utilize my Nobo board.
Section 1.1: Understanding the Nobo Board Layout
On the left side of my Nobo board, you'll find index cards arranged into categories: SHORT STORIES, NOVELLAS, NOVELS, NON-FICTION, and ARTICLES. The ARTICLES section is a recent addition, with each category accommodating up to five cards, except for ARTICLES, which holds four cards plus extra space at the bottom.
Each writing project is assigned a color-coded T-card. The title is placed along the 'T,' while essential details like market, deadlines, target word count, and fees are recorded on the hidden portion. As I progress through the various stages of my writing, I move the cards across the board. If I ever have more than five cards in a single category, it’s a clear sign I’m overwhelmed.
Section 1.2: Tracking Progress with the Production Schedule
The top of the board features stages of the writing process, arranged as follows: PERCOLATING, PLANNING (previously BRAINSTORMING and OUTLINING), WRITING, REVISING, COOLING, PROOFREADING, and PUBLISHING. Notably, I merged TYPING into WRITING, as both actions now fall under that category.
The first yellow card in the upper row is currently untitled but contains crucial details like target market, prompt, word count, and due date. Once I finalize a title for this project, it will be added to the top of the card.
The solitary blue card in the ARTICLES section represents my most recent article idea, which may also include additional filler content.
Chapter 2: Transitioning to Digital Tracking
The video "Master Your WHITEBOARD. Master Your PRODUCTIVITY." discusses strategies for maximizing productivity using a whiteboard setup, similar to my Nobo board approach.
After a piece has successfully moved from one side of the board to the other and is ready for PUBLISHING, I transfer it to a digital spreadsheet on my computer. This allows me to monitor where each completed piece has been submitted and where it will be published next.
Section 2.1: Visualizing Workflow and Bottlenecks
The layout appears organized and visually appealing, even if I say so myself. I might invest in some fine-tipped markers to enhance clarity further. However, I can easily view all details and quickly identify any workflow bottlenecks needing attention.
Currently, I find myself wishing for more tasks in the COOLING and PROOFREADING stages, but having this visual aid at my side is incredibly beneficial.
The second video, "How to Use a Whiteboard to Accomplish Your Goals," provides additional insights into leveraging a whiteboard effectively for goal-setting and productivity, mirroring my own experiences with the Nobo board.
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