by Laurel Neme
Where do you store your ideas so that you can come back to them later? I used to jot mine down on scraps of paper to make sure I wouldn’t forget them. But inevitably they drifted from my pockets to who knows where.
A friend noticed and bought me a beautiful blank book for my birthday. It was the kind that feels good simply to hold. For about a year, it worked. Except that it ended up not being that useful. First, I only filled about 12 of the pages. Probably because I didn’t have the book handy when I got an idea. Those that did make it into the book were often too brief (I tended to write just a sentence or two), so they didn’t always make sense. And without any hint of where the idea came from (maybe an event or an article) or what I was doing, I couldn’t recreate my process and find my way back to it.
Worse was the fact that I couldn’t search it quickly. Rather, I would have to read each page to find an idea I was looking for—and typically gave up before I did. Eventually it sat on my shelf. Unopened.
In 2020, I took an Intensive Picture Book Workshop with Anastasia Suen and came away with what was for me a key takeaway—the idea of writing “zero drafts” on my computer. The basic idea was freewriting a draft before your first draft. With no expectations or editing. It was a way to get ideas out of your head and onto the page.
I loved the concept and soon expanded it into something bigger—a running journal of ideas. In essence, it was me stuffing my pockets with scraps of paper filled with ideas and inspiration. Except it was electronic, in one place, and easily searchable.
It started when my critique group did Storystorm together. We all shared a Google doc, and each day wrote down ideas inspired by that day’s post. We each had different “ink” colors, and would often comment and feed off each other’s responses.
The camaraderie deepened my thinking. But I also found the process itself helpful. Once I started jotting down ideas, the more I’d think of. Because I didn’t feel like I had to actually DO anything with them immediately, and they wouldn’t get lost, I couldn’t stop ideas from flowing. And in other areas my writing was benefiting from that.
When the month ended, I wanted to continue that regular brainstorming. But my critique partners didn’t have the time, and they wanted to develop the ideas they’d had.
So…I did it on my own.
Thankfully, I got a boost from Non-Fiction Fest—a month-long series of blogs about writing nonfiction for children. For me, it was perfect. Not only was it a continuation of blogs I could use for inspiration, but nonfiction is my jam. I write books and articles for kids and adults, and am also a freelance journalist for National Geographic and other media outlets.
I tried to recreate the same conditions and started another Google doc, just for me.
Each day, I got inspired by the NF Fest posts. And when it ended, I kept at it. Maybe not every day. But many of them.
I used the document as a placeholder for ideas.
Not just for picture book ideas, but ideas for articles, too. I’d cut and paste links and snippets from research papers or news items that I wanted to pitch to National Geographic. Or subjects I wanted to explore for a book. Or a topic I wanted to learn more about. Sometimes, it was a starting point for a volcano of ideas. And I let those ideas flow.
Other times, I knew I wouldn’t use it but it caught my attention. Like an article on Charmin updating its toilet paper to have a scalloped edge. It talked about the history of toilet paper and included a little info nugget that TP hadn’t changed much since 1857, except with the introduction of perforated lines to make it tearable in the 1890s, and again in 1930 to make it splinter free. It also said more than 7 billion rolls are sold in the US every year. Now, I don’t think I’ll ever do anything with any of that information. But I wrote it down.
The point is: I don’t edit myself. Who knows where an idea might lead?
Even as I write this post, I’m still intrigued by the history of TP and now I wonder about the history of other objects. Crayons? Remote controls? Shower steamers?
I like having a place where I can let ideas rip. It’s like a junk drawer that you never have to organize but that’s always easy to search and find things.
Here are some tips I’ve found useful for my own running catalogue of ideas—but try whatever works for you.
- Start each entry with the date and highlight it in blue. That helps separate ideas.
- Put key words or ideas IN ALL CAPS. That helps me notice the heart of an idea. It also can get me brainstorming additional related ideas.
- Highlight in yellow items you want to stand out. It might be ideas you want to work on first. Or keywords. Or a useful website.
- Every month or so, download the document and save it on your computer. That process will make you realize how much you’ve done and can do.
- From time to time, scroll through and see what inspires.
Where do YOU store your Storystorm ideas? Take this opportunity to start your own searchable catalogue of ideas. Happy Storming!
Laurel Neme will be giving away two prizes: one 30-minute virtual school visit and one 30-minute “Ask Me Anything” Zoom call to two separate winners.
You’re eligible to win if you’re a registered Storystorm 2024 participant and you have commented only once on today’s blog post.
Prizes will be distributed at the conclusion of Storystorm.
Laurel Neme writes about nature and wildlife for kids and adults. She’s a regular contributor to to National Geographic and is the author of THE ELEPHANT’S NEW SHOE, about the rescue of a baby elephant who needs a prosthetic foot, ORANGUTAN HOUDINI, and ANIMAL INVESTIGATORS: How the World’s First Wildlife Forensics Lab is Solving Crimes and Saving Endangered Species. She’s also writes for New York Times for Kids magazine and other outlets. Visit her online at LaurelNeme.com. Stay in touch via social media: Bluesky @laurelneme.bsky.social and Instagram @laurelneme.
513 comments
Comments feed for this article
January 13, 2024 at 8:41 am
Debbie Tullos
Thank you for the tips!
January 13, 2024 at 8:41 am
thecrowsmap
Laurel, organization is always on the top of my New Year’s resolutions. I keep ideas on a spread sheet on my phone, but it’s only a snippet, and I often forget what it means. I’m going to try your idea:)
Gail Hartman
January 13, 2024 at 8:41 am
ccspizzirri
Thank you, Laurel! I love the suggestion of creating a searchable catalogue of ideas! I’m definitely going to do this.
January 13, 2024 at 8:43 am
bevbaird
Thanks so much for this amazing way to keep ideas organized. I am at the journal stage – and have several. Will definitely turn to expanding what I write about an idea.
January 13, 2024 at 8:43 am
amyhouts
What practical ideas! I’m going to implement them right away! Thank you!
January 13, 2024 at 8:45 am
Mark Bentz
Thank you, Laurel for posting these tips.
Congratulations on your books, and articles.
January 13, 2024 at 8:46 am
rosecappelli
Thank you, Laurel. I keep a running list in a notebook but it’s not searchable, so maybe the computer will help. Appreciate your tips.
January 13, 2024 at 8:51 am
Sayurikuri
Love!! I put all of my storystorm ideas in a Note on my phone so that I can stop at any time and type an idea in (biking, walking, between classes during the school day, in the playground with my kids), but this is a good reminder to catalogue and store them on my computer!! Loved this post! Thank you!
January 13, 2024 at 8:52 am
robincurrie1
Yes – I have several random files of “things I might want to write about” but getting them organized would be wonderful. (And I can’t wait for NF fest!) (Where did crayons come from?)
January 13, 2024 at 8:54 am
Rebecca Colby
Mine all go into my official Storystorm Journal of Ideas. Long after Storystorm is over, I’m still adding to it and dipping into it to develop the better ideas. So while I might write the idea on a scrap of paper, it’s very quickly written down in the journal for safe keeping all in one place. Thanks for sharing your own process!
January 13, 2024 at 8:58 am
Jean Martin
I’m going to try this! Thank you!
January 13, 2024 at 8:59 am
kelliearted
Great ideas. I have tidbits of paper all over the place… Ideas that I’ve texted myself… and ideas in the Notes App in my phone. One searchable place for them would be so beneficial! Thanks!
January 13, 2024 at 8:59 am
Jany Campana
Thanks Laurel for giving me permission not to edit myself!
January 13, 2024 at 9:05 am
Susie
Love your tips !
organizing is always on my writing to do list. 😉
I like to write ideas in a journal on paper. I use colored pencils to highlight key points. I doodle. I summarize once in a while so I can see in one shot the creative nuggets of my recent efforts.
thank you for sharing !
January 13, 2024 at 9:08 am
lynnpesicka
Thanks for the ideas on how to organize my ideas and make then easier to look through.
January 13, 2024 at 9:16 am
Darla Christie
Loved your post! A real inspiration to organize ideas. I have an ‘ideas’ folder on my computer and a physical notebook, but I’m going to give your recommendations a try. Thanks for sharing!
January 13, 2024 at 9:16 am
Rachelle Burk
Very cool idea, great organization! My database is messier. When I get an idea I send myself an email with the idea keywords in the subject line and details in the body. I send it to myself and add it to a file labeled “story ideas”. When I come up with more details I reply to the original email with the additional information. Now and then I searched through my “story ideas” file and search through the notes in the particular email threads.
January 13, 2024 at 9:17 am
lsheroan
This was very helpful. Thanks!
January 13, 2024 at 9:20 am
1marth1
Thank you for your organizational ideas. It’s never been one of my strengths. I’ve enjoyed both fictional and non-fictional animal stories since I was a kid. I love watching nature shows. Thanks for keeping them coming.
January 13, 2024 at 9:21 am
asiqueira1307
I have a google doc for ideas for each time I participate on Storystorm. But I like the idea of doing that after Storystorm too.
January 13, 2024 at 9:26 am
kellybirdsong2019
This was great to read—beneficial information. Thanks for sharing.
January 13, 2024 at 9:29 am
Jennifer
What a great idea and system. I have my ideas in a lot of places–journals mostly–except my Storystorm ideas, which I’ve written on the computer. I don’t revisit them enough. Maybe this is the year to do that more!
January 13, 2024 at 9:33 am
srkckass
Thank you so much for your suggestions of a zero draft and a catalogue of ideas. I have tons of ideas but can never seem to nudge them into the next phase. I think these could really help. Thanks and congratulations!
January 13, 2024 at 9:34 am
Lucretia Schafroth
I, too, have a combination of journal notebooks dedicated to Storystorm, folders in my Notes app…and definitely some scraps of paper stuffed into an envelope or journal pocket (yikes!). Your point about making these idea nuggets searchable is an excellent one that I’ve considered intermittently but never took the required time and initiative to address!
Thanks for sharing your approach to organizing story ideas, info, etc., for writing inspiration, Laurel. They’re all great suggestions that I will certainly use.
January 13, 2024 at 9:37 am
Jessica Coupé
Thanks for the organization ideas! I never thought of using colours to separate/highlight the. I’m going to try it.
January 13, 2024 at 9:38 am
Andi Chitty
Great tips for organizing our ideas, thank you!
January 13, 2024 at 9:41 am
Jessica Iwanski
Fantastic organizational tips! I’ll be going back through my mess of a Google doc with these ideas to bring some order to the chaos. 😂 I love nonfiction for children too, and I’m always jotting down little things that inspire or interest me. Like you said, you never know where an idea might lead. Thank you, Laurel!
January 13, 2024 at 9:44 am
pathaap
What great information, Laurel. And I love the highlighting idea. Thanks for sharing!
January 13, 2024 at 9:44 am
Cheryl Keely
Good ideas. I always misplace my paper or notebook of ideas and I’m not always at the computer to add my ideas to a list started there. I’ve tried emailing myself ideas for when i do get to the computer but those emails often get buried under the have to handle emails. A google docs could be just the thing to finally— hopefully, possibly, wishful thinking — make logging and finding ideas user friendly.
January 13, 2024 at 9:47 am
sallymcclure
I write my ideas in the notes app on my phone and the copy them over to my computer later.
January 13, 2024 at 9:48 am
anchance
I use this method on my computer for my pitches. For my Storystorm ideas, I always use a little notebook. Luckily, I have kept it organized since day one, but I do wonder what I’ll do when I fill the notebook. Thanks for the tips!
January 13, 2024 at 9:48 am
debjohnson21
Thank you! I appreciate the organization ideas…I always have a specific sketch book for SS ideas and the sketches I make for them by year. It would be wonderful to have them all stored in the cloud and searchable, too. Looks like a rainy afternoon activity!
January 13, 2024 at 9:50 am
Becky Goodman
Draft 0, here I come! Thank you!
January 13, 2024 at 9:51 am
Daryl Gottier
Thanks Laurel, it always helps to hear what strategies work for others. I have little notebooks everywhere just in case inspiration strikes. The google doc idea would be so much more organized. Giving it a try!
January 13, 2024 at 9:58 am
SandraL
Thanks for sharing your idea evolution!
January 13, 2024 at 9:59 am
Alicia Meyers
These ideas are fantastic. Thanks for giving us some new & fresh ideas!
January 13, 2024 at 10:01 am
Laura Purdie Salas
I love process posts (and Anastasia’s courses are fabulous!). I have a Picture Book Ideas .docx that works for me (it’s currently 106 pages long), and I incorporate some of these tips, like dating my ideas and putting where the inspiration came from. I like the idea of using highlights and all caps for things. I’m going to try that! After I write or try to write a ms from an idea in a different document, I strike through the idea entry. Then I note things like, “[This turned into Clover Kitty!]” and “WROTE AND SOLD THIS AS A PASSAGE.” I also paste in images that spark ideas for me. Thanks for this–my brain’s a-whirring!
January 13, 2024 at 10:02 am
lindakaychavezbooks
Thanks for this clever organizational idea. Your experience with storing ideas really resonates with me. I’m going to try this. Thanks for sharing!
January 13, 2024 at 10:05 am
Prairie Garden Girl
Thank you, Laurel, for writing an excellent post on how to better catalogue writing ideas.
Suzy Leopold
January 13, 2024 at 10:06 am
ptnozell
I like your organizational style, Laurel! Thank you for sharing! I love how you made your ideas list more searchable. I keep all of my ideas in a word doc, that I store in a StoryStorm folder. I’ve also started keeping articles of interest in that StoryStorm folder, and I have a Biography folder of ideas, too. Much easier for me than a paper notebook.
January 13, 2024 at 10:07 am
yangmommy
My mind keeps drifting back to your fact about toilet paper having splinters– really, LOL?!?!? And OW!!
January 13, 2024 at 10:08 am
jessicafgwrites
I’m a diehard notebook girl, but you’ve got me seriously considering the value of moving my ideas over to a digital form…thanks for an inspiring post.
January 13, 2024 at 10:12 am
kathalsey
Ty, Laurel, for the tips on running catalogue of idea! I really like the idea of doing this next year w/ my CPs to get a nice mojo going for 2024 or any new year!
January 13, 2024 at 10:12 am
https://katiewalsh.blog/
Excellent idea, Laurel! Thank you!
January 13, 2024 at 10:13 am
writerdi2020
Great discussion! I am a google doc person. I just keep adding–everything from Storystorm idea to photos to link to interesting articles.
January 13, 2024 at 10:14 am
katecarroll
Love the organization, Laurel. I recently visited someone with the scalloped toilet paper and was so curious about it. who knew it was a pb idea for someone! Thanks for the inspiration!
January 13, 2024 at 10:16 am
jenfierjasinski
Great post, Laurel! Especially the origin and your extension.
January 13, 2024 at 10:25 am
Joyce P. Uglow
Thank you, Laurel. I have books handmade by @je.suis.remy.u.press for my very special journaling. But I start jotting ideas in folders in Google Drive. I love your website, by the way.
January 13, 2024 at 10:27 am
Karen Gebbia
Always great to have more tips on keeping all the random ideas, bits of research, and links organized! Thank you and congrats on your fun books!
January 13, 2024 at 10:28 am
Robin Brett Wechsler
Thanks for sharing your process, Laurel! I appreciate how detailed and organized you are. And I’m a fan of your books!
January 13, 2024 at 6:26 pm
laurelneme
Thanks so much!!!
January 13, 2024 at 10:29 am
leslieevatayloe
I’m a composition book woman. One book for ideas and one when I start a story, and then I label with tabs each story so I can find them easy. My composition books are quite full with lots of tabs! 🙂 It can be frustrating at times! When I get tired of it, I’ll try your idea. Thanks.
January 13, 2024 at 10:30 am
Deborah Agranat Sullivan
Oooh…great ideas, Laurel! Love color coding and refreshing a system that’s not working optimally is a perfect way to kick off 2024. Thanks for sharing (and offering such generous prizes!)
January 13, 2024 at 10:32 am
ralucasirbu
Hi Laurel, that’s what a researcher would do: document, classify, organize. The advice comes from the source. Thank you for sharing your experience and for the advice.
January 13, 2024 at 10:32 am
jennifermaryg
Omg I love this idea so much!! Thank you for sharing! 📚♥️📚♥️
January 13, 2024 at 10:34 am
bookclubhbhs
I have been thinking a lot lately about needing to find a good way to organize ideas and drafts both written and digital! Thanks for these ideas! Is there a link for Non-Fiction Fest? I’ve never heard of that before and would love to check it out! When does it run? Working for National Geographic was a dream of mine as a kid! You must have some amazing stories; I can’t wait to check out your website and books!
January 13, 2024 at 6:25 pm
laurelneme
Thanks for your kind comment! Here’s a link for NF Fest. I highly recommend! https://www.nffest.com
January 14, 2024 at 10:33 am
bookclubhbhs
Thanks so much for the link! I can’t wait to check it out!
January 13, 2024 at 10:34 am
sheriradovich0384
Thank you for the ideas. I have notebooks for every year I have done Storystorm. I can go back and read through the ideas and add to the lists and bring them to life as stories on the computer at a later time after scribbling them. Thank you for suggesting you share a google doc with a group and see what tangents other writers get from the same idea.
January 13, 2024 at 10:35 am
geigerlin
When ideas happen I record to my notes on my I-Phone, then later transfer them to a Word doc. I love the idea of highlighting dates, keywords, etc. And I also see the merit in handwriting first drafts. Thank you! Such good tips!
January 13, 2024 at 10:35 am
Bridgitte Rodguez
I sort of do a version of this— I’ve had a running list in my notes app on my phone for the last several years, where anytime I have an idea for a story, I jot it down in there. The problem is, I usually just drop a topic or a theme or a title— and sometimes I’ll relook at them and have no idea what it is I meant by it! So I like the idea of making it more journaly, adding a little more context to the idea!
January 13, 2024 at 10:41 am
Alison McGauley
I do have a long list of ideas on my computer. I love the idea of color coding and using caps to organize them. Thanks, Laurel!
January 13, 2024 at 10:41 am
kiwijenny
I love this. It made me dream of a junk drawer that was easy to navigate. Whoah.. awesome. Thank you. I’m going to use this post and it was a high light…hmmmm where are my highlighters? Electronic highlighting here I come….wheeee
January 13, 2024 at 10:42 am
nicolesalterbraun
I’m still doing the write it in a notebook way but I like your idea.
January 13, 2024 at 10:46 am
Diane McBee
Great idea and tips. Thanks for sharing.
January 13, 2024 at 10:47 am
Fern Glazer
Thanks for sharing your method to this creative madness! I adore reading about other writers’ processes. Fascinating to read yours! I am a huge fan of notebooks —handwriting feels more fluid than typing when I am ideating. But I also love a good searchable digital document. Ive been playing with a combo—cataloging my notebooks in a spreadsheet every so often. Still a WIP.
January 13, 2024 at 10:47 am
heidikyates
Thanks for sharing your helpful tips for organizing and storing ideas, Laurel!
January 13, 2024 at 10:50 am
Lori Williams Writing
I just started a google doc yesterday to begin to catalog the Storystorm ideas. Thank you for showing us a way to keep up with all of our ideas to go back and reference later.
January 13, 2024 at 10:51 am
coachrochelle
I love my searchable document! And I love your ideas for keeping it organized.
January 13, 2024 at 10:52 am
natashaffdfd87f06
This was a brilliant idea! Zero drafts for the win!
January 13, 2024 at 10:52 am
reedandwritekids
Great idea generating tips
January 13, 2024 at 10:54 am
Sarah Skolfield
I love this post because I completely relate to your process! I have a similar process that I started in 2019 which was inspired by Storystorm. I have a spiral bound notebook. The first pages in this notebook have Storystorm 2019 at the top. After Storystorm was over that year, I continued with “Random Ideas” at the top of the page. After awhile, I scanned back through the notebook and created a page called “Possibly Promising Ideas”. So, those are the titles of my pages: Storystorms for each year since 2019, Random Ideas/Thoughts and Possibly Promising Ideas. The process of just re-reading through the notebook shows me what’s been on my mind (because I do repeat myself) and sometimes triggers new ideas.
I still jot down ideas on random scraps of paper and have a list on my phone but I transfer them to the spiral bound notebook.
January 13, 2024 at 10:55 am
fleischmana6
Thank you Laurel! I love your tips for organizing zero drafts to make them more searchable. I typically write first drafts with pencil in a journal… but I like the idea of “zero drafts” being zero pressure kernels of ideas that I can easily find again. I’ll give it a go!
January 13, 2024 at 10:55 am
abby mumford
This is a fabulous, practical tip. I too alternate between a running Word doc, a handwritten notebook, and a notes app on my phone, but maintaining all three gets to be a bit much and I’m sure there are some missing gaps… I separate by date, but I can’t wait to add in some color coding. Why is organizing so much fun? (No, I’m not procrastinating from revising an MS, why do you ask??)
January 13, 2024 at 10:58 am
catlady45
I love the idea of having a searchable catalogue! Thank you, Laurel. This was a really interesting blog post.
January 13, 2024 at 11:00 am
amybeth349
Interesting! I was just looking at our to paper and realized the scalloped edges. I like that, brilliant Charming. It makes the to more elegant. I store my ideas in a journal book and add my art 🖼️ to it as well. But it has filled up and I am writing on scraps of paper used as bookmarks. I like the computer idea, and have also written stories using “Nites” on my cellphone. The highlighting sounds intriguing and I may try that. Thanks for the tips.
January 13, 2024 at 11:00 am
Sarah Hetu-Radny
Great post, thank you Laurel. I joined NF Fest –was looking for a resource JUST like them, so thank you!!
January 13, 2024 at 6:28 pm
laurelneme
Totally recommend NF Fest!! See you there!!! Lol!
January 13, 2024 at 11:01 am
marthaej
Organization has been a struggle, so loved reading this post! I put mine in notes on my phone but also bought a journal, hoping to use it to expand on my ideas.
January 13, 2024 at 11:04 am
aubreyalliethewriter
Organization is an issue of mine. I used to write ideas in notebooks, but I’d never go back to them and I’d have to search through to find anything if I did. I’m keeping my Storystorm ideas in my phone “notes.” I noticed that’s where I type ideas naturally, and so I’ve been doing that for a long time. It works best for me.
January 13, 2024 at 11:04 am
stefsenn77yahoocom
Thanks for sharing, Laurel!
January 13, 2024 at 11:08 am
Annie Guerra
This sounds like an outstanding method. I would do exactly the same things with my scraps of paper and writing journal. Hopefully I can implement this strategy for better results.
January 13, 2024 at 11:09 am
beckylevine
What a great idea! It’s probably more legible than my notebook scribbles, too. 🙂
January 13, 2024 at 11:11 am
Lisa
This is brilliant. Nonfiction is also my jam, and my research is overwhelming. I could write a Ph.D. thesis with the amount, but I can’t find what I want when time to write. Thank you!
January 13, 2024 at 11:15 am
littleseedsread
Keeping track of ideas is an ongoing issue for me. I’m forever searching for the notebooks I wrote things down in. I love the idea of creating an electronic “junk drawer” for ideas and returning to it, building on the ideas over time. Brilliant! Thank you, Laurel.
January 13, 2024 at 11:16 am
ejdthomasville
I keep my ideas in Evernote. I love your color-coding tips!
January 13, 2024 at 11:17 am
calliebdean
I have kept my ideas on a running Google Doc since 2021, when I first did Storystorm!! I love the idea of doing Storystorm with a group, though — what a cool way to collaborate!
January 13, 2024 at 11:17 am
Teresa Daffern
I love your system of idea organization. It’s like an electronic visual journal. Thanks Laurel!
January 13, 2024 at 11:17 am
jms5880
I love the idea of doing Storystorm with a critique group. That sounds like such fun. Thank you for sharing your ideas.
January 13, 2024 at 11:18 am
inquirylane
What a compelling idea. I’d like to try it. Thank you for sharing!-Macy
January 13, 2024 at 11:20 am
jenanyong
What a wonderful idea, Laurel! Thank you!
January 13, 2024 at 11:20 am
Armineh Manookian
Love the description, “like a junk drawer you never have to organize.” Such helpful tips. Thank you, Laurel!
January 13, 2024 at 11:24 am
JF Hall Writes
I never thought of a shared brainstorming activity; what a neat idea! I’ve certainly benefitted from switching to capturing my ideas electronically. (It especially helps because I can’t always read my own handwriting, ha.) Thank you!
January 13, 2024 at 11:26 am
Loralee Petersen
As a librarian, I love the idea of a sort of catalogue of ideas. Thanks for suggestion!
January 13, 2024 at 11:29 am
karenrafeedie
Hi Laurel. Thanks for sharing that. It’s so clever and I love the color-coding system.
January 13, 2024 at 11:36 am
serendipityinstars
I like the idea of a catalogue to organize ideas. A lot of my ideas are in various notebooks, so having them all in one place would be great. The color coding is especially helpful.
January 13, 2024 at 11:38 am
Tracey Kiff-Judson
Laurel, first, let me say that I am thankful for the elimination of splinters in 1930! I, too, keep an idea list on my computer, but I appreciate your ideas about how to organize it and make it more useful. I think I will go back through and see if I can clean it up a little to make the ideas accessible. Thank you!
January 13, 2024 at 11:38 am
michelleleewritesmagic
I am very much still a journal / spiral notebook gal – though I do jot down ideas in my Notes app on my phone if I am out & about without pen and paper. There is something about my handwriting that just generates interesting things and keeps the flow going. The logical, organized part of recognizes and appreciates the ease of technology, but the old-school part of me loves colored pens!
January 13, 2024 at 11:40 am
Cindy Greene
Laurel – I echo the relief that there are no more splinters in TP! I loved your post – your list sounds very freeing and more welcoming than my storystorm table I keep in a word doc. I am excited to try a new system. Also, I was so happy to see your name. Hope all is well!
January 13, 2024 at 11:44 am
Cathy Ballou Mealey
Digital is definitely the way to go for storing, organizing and browsing story ideas – even if my folder is titled PiBoIdMo! ;D
January 13, 2024 at 11:47 am
nrompella
I’m interested in learning more about the 0 Draft. I am notorious for little slips of paper with random ideas. It seems useful if I used Notes or something where I could access on my phone, computer, etc.
January 13, 2024 at 11:50 am
andreesantini
I have files, notebooks, and electronic files of ideas. You’ve inspired me to integrate them into one digital doc. Thank you!
January 13, 2024 at 11:53 am
judyrubin13
Thank you, Lauren, for sharing your idea saving ideas and challenges. Between notebooks, computers, and scraps of paper, it becomes quite a treasure trove.
January 13, 2024 at 11:58 am
heatherstigall
Like you, I also collect ideas on scraps of paper, napkins, etc. all year round and I often use StoryStorm month to organize them in a notebook. I love notebooks and hand-writing ideas, but I do have a problem with them not being easily searchable. I really love your ideas of how to organize them in a virtual doc that’s searchable. Thanks for the tips!
January 13, 2024 at 12:01 pm
Annelouise
Hi Laurel. I can totally relate to jotting down ideas on scrap paper and forgetting about them. Thank you for sharing helpful tips on creating a searchable document for story ideas. : )
January 13, 2024 at 12:02 pm
Mikki McFeve
My running idea list is in a google doc (that I can add to on my phone). But it’s just bulletpointed and not dated or color coded. Always fun to see how others do it!
January 13, 2024 at 12:02 pm
Lynne Marie
Just the mention of dates gave me an idea! I’m also always collecting ideas throughout the year! Thanks for today’s inspiration.
January 13, 2024 at 12:09 pm
Laurel Ranveig Abell
Thank goodness they removed the splinters! Honestly, I think this could be a picture books kids would LOVE! I love your cataloging idea. The specifics to identify stories are so helpful. Thank you. And I especially like the idea of a zero draft file to distinguish from actual drafts.
January 13, 2024 at 12:11 pm
Jennifer
Thank you so much, Laurel! I’ve been keeping my ideas scattered across notebooks and the notes app in my phone, and it definitely is limiting. Great idea to make it a searchable document with some formatting to help browse more easily. And I’m kind of obsessed with that toilet paper history now…
January 13, 2024 at 12:14 pm
Katie Marie
Thank you for sharing how you organize your catalogue of ideas!
January 13, 2024 at 12:14 pm
Laurie Seaford
I NEED this! I’ve had far too many ideas that simply passed out of my mind, or if briefly captured, don’t even make sense to me when I revisit them later. Thank you! BTW, I’ve been curious about Charmin’s scalloped square edges. (;
January 13, 2024 at 12:15 pm
kelpellico
This is great. I keep something similar but I underuse it and don’t apply the highlights, caps, etc. which would make it so much more useful. I’ll start doing that. Thanks for the tips!
January 13, 2024 at 12:17 pm
gottawritenow
Great post Laurel-thank you! I have so many scraps of paper and sticky notes along with scribblers and backs of envelopes I try and keep track of and go through-definitely going to give your post in organizing a go!
January 13, 2024 at 12:19 pm
gregoryfulgione
Thank you, so much, for sharing this post! Creating a catalogue of ideas is a organizational method worth thinking about.
January 13, 2024 at 12:21 pm
Julie Hauswirth
I use the notes app on my phone to jot down ideas- but I love the idea of transitioning over to google docs and color coding! I recently added google docs to my phone so I can use it on the go- I’m going to give this a try! Thanks!!
January 13, 2024 at 12:22 pm
sue macartney
Laurel – I’m a writer and illustrator with burgeoning bundles, boxes, and files of ideas and “illos” – always looking for ways to organize both! Loved today’s idea organization advice – thanks!
January 13, 2024 at 12:24 pm
daisymay
Laurel’s pic of her journal with a bunch of scraps and stickies looks exactly like mine! I’m inspired to organize my ideas into something more user friendly. I prefer paper pencil to the computer, it’s how I write all my rough drafts. I have a small journal, I used to carry it with me all the time for story ideas. I don’t know why I stopped. I’m going to put it back on my tote! Thanks laurel
January 13, 2024 at 12:25 pm
Mark Ceilley
Putting story ideas on my computer is a great idea! Thanks for all of your tips and suggestions!
January 13, 2024 at 12:26 pm
lisakpav
I look forward to trying your tips! Thank you 🙂
January 13, 2024 at 12:29 pm
Hilary Margitich
Love this idea, Laurel, thank you for sharing it!
January 13, 2024 at 12:30 pm
Hilary Margitich
Oops, sorry, I meant to comment above!
January 13, 2024 at 12:30 pm
nbiebow
Really liked your practical tips for keeping track of your ideas. Thank you for sharing!
January 13, 2024 at 12:32 pm
Hilary Margitich
Love this idea, Laurel, thank you for sharing it! Please disregard my other comment where I replied to a commenter (instead of you) by mistake.
January 13, 2024 at 12:32 pm
emmelineforrestal
Great tips! I haven’t made it to the electronic organization stage for my ideas yet, but I keep all my scribbled-down-ideas in a file folder in my office. A physical junk drawer that often yields gold! 😉
January 13, 2024 at 12:35 pm
Becki Kidd
What a great way of thinking “outside the book.” Love to hear about different processes.
January 13, 2024 at 12:39 pm
claireflewis
Thanks for a great post – this sounds like a great idea! I note ideas down on my phone, on scraps of paper, in my current notebook and in an electronic ‘ideas’ document, but being more disciplined and keeping them all in one electronic file would be a lot better!
January 13, 2024 at 12:40 pm
brennajeanneret
Wow! I love this idea and do something similar but not nearly as organized, haha!
January 13, 2024 at 12:40 pm
marty bellis
Keeping those ideas organized and accessible is such a challenge. Thanks for sharing your method.
January 13, 2024 at 12:44 pm
Cathy Lentes
Organizational ideas are always welcome. Thanks, Laurel!
January 13, 2024 at 12:45 pm
Christine Pinto
I like the zero draft idea. Makes the work you do thinking about it visible. Thanks.
January 13, 2024 at 12:49 pm
mariautumn7c81b37a0a
I love the idea of keeping the ideas and storming going even after January. I have a journal I keep mine in.
January 13, 2024 at 12:56 pm
Bethanny Parker
I have a handmade book I used to keep my ideas in, but somehow over the past year, I lost the book! I am writing this year’s ideas in a notebook, to be transferred to the Storystorm book once I find it.
January 13, 2024 at 12:59 pm
Alicia Shawn Gagnon
This gave me some great ideas about how to file and re-find my ideas.
TU!
January 13, 2024 at 1:00 pm
katiemahood
My son got me a pocket-size notebook that’s inscribed ‘Little book of Big Ideas’ for Christmas (even before I knew I would be participating in this) it felt perfect though, so that’s what I’m currently using. But when I run out of space (because eventually I will) I’m excited to to try a searchable document too!
January 13, 2024 at 1:06 pm
clcoate
Great ideas! Thank you!
January 13, 2024 at 1:07 pm
Jane Dippold
At first, a journal works and feels good…but after a few years a searchable doc with links and dates would be amazing!
January 13, 2024 at 1:12 pm
iartbygina
This is so helpful! I love learning tips and tricks on how to better organize- especially my storybook ideas! Thank you!
January 13, 2024 at 1:14 pm
beaumontsd2
lol…I graduated from scraps of paper and the backs of envelopes to notebooks but I have so many of them, and writing ideas get mixed in with notes from things I’ve read, notes about watercolour lessons and readings, quotations, little sketches and even watercolour doodling which makes my pages wrinkled ha, ha! Thank you for your post, Laurel, and inspiration to turn the page lol!
January 13, 2024 at 1:16 pm
Allison Green
I have the same problem—I jot down an idea on the notes app of my phone, confident that I’ll remember everything in my mind later. But when I go back to it I think, “Did I ask my kids to write that down for me???”
January 13, 2024 at 1:17 pm
greengirlblueplanet
Great ideas. I keep a spreadsheet for my stories but I keep a hybrid of ideas on my phone as well as a word doc for storystorm so far.
January 13, 2024 at 1:20 pm
Stephen S. Martin
I had the idea that I should have my idea folder open up every time I turn on my computer, so it forces me to visit them.
January 13, 2024 at 1:22 pm
Helen M. Waters
Thanks for this tip. I’ve been using physical journals, but it would be great if they were searchable so I may try to transcribe them.
January 13, 2024 at 1:24 pm
hansenjc13
This is a great idea for ideas! I love how you storystormed with your critique group; I’d like to try that…I love using my Notes app on my phone because it’s always nearby and I can use the search feature to look up keywords. I do this for working manuscripts as well; I title the note with the manuscript title. Then add little thoughts, comps, pitch ideas, etc. as they randomly float into my head. 🙂
January 13, 2024 at 1:27 pm
mornagersho
I love this idea because one seed idea easily breaks off (and fragments) into others. I like the system chronicled here to help herd all the ideas.
January 13, 2024 at 6:33 pm
laurelneme
Love the way you described that — that a seed of an idea breaks off and fragments into others. Yes!
January 13, 2024 at 1:27 pm
Heidi McFadzean
Excellent idea! I’ve used a very basic form of this, but you’ve give excellent suggestions to flesh it out and make it more user friendly.
Also, check out “A History of Toilet Paper” by Sophia Gholz.
January 13, 2024 at 6:34 pm
laurelneme
I will check it ou! Thanks! Lol!
January 13, 2024 at 1:31 pm
beckywalker01
Mercy that was a wealth of information and inspiration! Thank you! From organizing ideas to NF inspiration to collaborating on ideas with CPs and even the name of an intensive PB course… so valuable. I appreciate your willingness to share with us!
January 13, 2024 at 1:32 pm
mphollinsheadyahoocom
The NY Times is a great source for ideas. But my file is getting crowded, so I too am transferring to downloading them, a la Story storm.
January 13, 2024 at 1:32 pm
Angie
Oh, great tips! I need to learn how to use Google docs…I mean start one even. Right now, I use composition books. I cover the bindings with a specific color of duct tape and add a number. I’m up to number 3! Thanks for the ideas!
Angie Quantrell
January 13, 2024 at 1:34 pm
Lorraine
I have scraps upon scraps and notebooks with ideas. Yes, one place and organized would be very helpful! Wonderful!
January 13, 2024 at 1:34 pm
Linda KulpTrout
I have several notebooks full of ideas and notes. They are dated, but not in any particular order. I’m going to start a spreadsheet today. Thanks for a great post!
January 13, 2024 at 1:34 pm
kamalani3
Laurel, these are great specific suggestions. I’m not as organized enough to keep a dedicated notebook or computer file. I write ideas down on whatever’s handy and then file them in my ideas folder. Hanging file folders work for me, mostly lol Thanks, Laurel!
January 13, 2024 at 1:36 pm
Becca McMurdie
My idea-keeping systems are a mess! These suggestions are great. I am also very interested in your elephant rescue book featuring an elephant with a prosthetic foot. My debut, BUILDING A BEAK, features a rescued toucan who gets a prosthetic beak. Cheers!
January 13, 2024 at 6:38 pm
laurelneme
We should connect! I want to hear about and help promote your debut! Congrats! Have you seen the piece I did for Mongabay about 3D printing of prosthetics for animals – including a toucan with a prosthetic beak! Lots of great links in there, too, that might interest you. Let’s connect!! See: https://news.mongabay.com/2021/04/life-and-new-limbs-creative-thinking-3d-printers-save-injured-wildlife/
January 13, 2024 at 1:37 pm
Yolimari Garcia
I love the idea of creating a catalogue of ideas. Thank you for your wonderful post!
January 13, 2024 at 1:38 pm
Karin Larson
Currently, I am somewhat more organized than previously as I am using my Storystorm 2024 Idea Book though typically scraps of paper or notes on my phone are my go tos. Thank you for the great post. I was jotting ideas as I read.
January 13, 2024 at 1:40 pm
Deep Frees Studios
Laurel, Thank you for this glimpse into your process for cataloging ideas! The hardest situation for me is when I get story ideas on a run. Then I have to hold an image in my head or come up with some other mnemonic device to hold on to it until I get home. Like you, I find it helpful to write out “Draft 0” versions of my ideas when I can. I’m a mess with paper, so I always create a new Google doc for each idea and keep it in a Google folder called “incubator.”
January 13, 2024 at 1:41 pm
Aileen Stewart
What an interesting process you have!
January 13, 2024 at 1:42 pm
brightwishbooks
Love the idea of putting key words in all caps. And my kids would totally read a book about TP!
January 13, 2024 at 1:48 pm
jnorland
I love this! To answer your question, I keep a running list of story ideas on Google Docs — I think of it as my retirement treasure chest, and sometimes I scroll through them and get excited. This year, i’m writing all my Story Storm ideas in the little boxes on the January calendar page of my planner – that way, i’ll be able to see it all the time. I’m planning to use the ideas to develop my monthy drafts for the 12X12 challenge. Thank you for sharing.
January 13, 2024 at 1:48 pm
Kimberly. Storyteller
Lots of useful tips, Laurel, thank you so much for sharing!
I’ve learned to do something quick, or an idea will be lost forever. I grab my android, hit memo, find my saved list, and then record. Later, I’ll transfer everything to a folder on my laptop.
January 13, 2024 at 1:49 pm
Abby Wooldridge
What a great idea, Laurel! It often seems that my problem isn’t coming up with an idea but capturing it before it flies away! I currently use post-it notes and a writing notebook, but you are right–it’s hard to find that one thing you’re looking for by flipping through page after page after page. I may have to give this a try! I also love your idea to periodically peruse the document for inspiration. I know I’ve surprised myself in the past by finding a Google Doc of a PB draft (and once an entire novel!) I had completely forgotten about! I think you’re on to something here! Thank you for sharing, and congratulations on all your books!
January 13, 2024 at 1:53 pm
kwillette13
Thanks for sharing your process! Writing for Nat Geo sounds incredible!! Does the Nonfiction Fest still run? If so, do you know where we might access it?
January 13, 2024 at 6:40 pm
laurelneme
Check out NF Fest at: https://www.nffest.com. See you there!
January 13, 2024 at 10:29 pm
kwillette13
Many thanks!! (:
January 13, 2024 at 1:56 pm
arndt4writing
Thanks so much for tips! It’s so interesting seeing different people’s processes!
January 13, 2024 at 1:58 pm
rosiesartventures
Super cool idea. I like that Google docs cam be accessed by cell, too…
January 13, 2024 at 1:58 pm
Peggy Dobbs
I like this idea of a color-coded and searchable document. Thank you!
January 13, 2024 at 2:04 pm
Poupette
Clever idea to color code and add dates –thanks! Organization IS so important, but just curious, where do you log your ideas on the fly before downloading them to your computer?
January 13, 2024 at 6:44 pm
laurelneme
When I’m out walking and have an idea, I usually send myself an email. Then, when I’m home and at my computer, I copy and paste it into my Google doc. But…and this is funny…now that I’m reading the comments to this post, I’m learning /realizing (techno wiz that I am not!) that I could actually access Google docs on my phone — so maybe in the future I’ll put my idea in the doc directly even when I’m on the fly. Lol!
January 13, 2024 at 2:07 pm
Catrine Kyster
So many good ideas! Love it! Not least the zero draft. I have a Word file with ideas and I also email myself ideas if I’m away from my computer (still haven’t gotten used to Google docs) with IDEA as the subject line so they’re easy to search for. But I think one thing that stood out to me from this post was that it can be a good idea to not only write down complete PB ideas but just snippets of ideas and things that catch my interest and curiosity
January 13, 2024 at 2:11 pm
Tonnye Fletcher
Thanks, Laurel! What an interesting way to catalog ideas. I have a small on-the-go notebook for StoryStorm. At the end of StoryStorm, I transfer them to a file in my computer. Then I store the notebook in my purse for capturing additional ideas throughout the year. At the end of the year, I add those ideas to my computer file as well. Tonnye
January 13, 2024 at 2:18 pm
karenleewyoming
It’s a bit of a relief to know I’m not the only one who keeps a file for ideas on my computer (and phone). I also love to use different colors to highlight things to make it easier for me in the future. You sound a bit more organized than I am, but there’s hope for me yet!
January 13, 2024 at 2:33 pm
mdk45
The record keeping is definitely a hill to climb. Congrats on finding your way to the summit. Thanks Laura.
January 13, 2024 at 2:35 pm
Jane Baskwill
Thanks for sharing the tips for color-coding e-files. I use a journal but then have to page through to find them. I have often wished I could attach the physical book to my computer! You’ve inspired me to give your approach a try.
January 13, 2024 at 2:37 pm
Michelle S Kennedy
Thanks for sharing your process with us! What a great and useful idea!
January 13, 2024 at 2:37 pm
Colleen Owen Murphy
Laurel, I cannot tell you how many journals I have, some full and some with mere pages completed. I really should take them and your idea of a digital notebook and catalogue them, as well as use your suggestion moving forward.
Thank you!
January 13, 2024 at 2:41 pm
joanswanson58
I use a composition notebook every storystorm year. When writing, I go back to them and see what ideas resonate with me. Thank you for the google sheets idea.
January 13, 2024 at 2:53 pm
Claire A. B. Freeland
I love how you went from scrap paper to computer files. I think this reflects the wider world. I also think the concept of a zero draft is useful. Thanks for the interesting post.
January 13, 2024 at 2:53 pm
Sharlin Craig
Laurel, you’ve inspired me to do a better job organizing all my ideas and writing! I love the color coding idea and CAPS to make the important ideas stand out. Thank you! 😁
January 13, 2024 at 2:54 pm
jbbower
What a fabulous idea Laurel! I color-code my work calendar, so I don’t know why I never thought to do it with story ideas. Funny, I have a book that looks a lot like your illustration. I’ll have to get busy organizing them into one, searchable place. Thanks again!
January 13, 2024 at 2:54 pm
Christine Graham
Oh, yes, those many tiny scraps of paper. that go…where? Thanks for a very practical idea.
January 13, 2024 at 2:54 pm
TonyaAnn Pember
So relatable, I, too have tons of notebooks of ideas stored on my shelf with little pieces of paper stuck in them. I’m going to google right now to try this out!
January 13, 2024 at 2:57 pm
writeremmcbride
Laurel! I have had that same beautiful little notebook, and crammed it full of numbered post-it notes that I would re-write and then enter the ideas into the notebook. Trouble is – actually going back to the notebook and all of its previous notebook friends! Your idea of a searchable database is great! Thank you!!!
January 13, 2024 at 2:57 pm
Maria Johnson
Laurel, as someone for whom organizational techniques are a real turn on, this post made me so happy! I can’t thank you enough for the practicality and specificity of your post. I am currently in journal world. I love the feel of an actual pen and paper, but it is hard to go back and find old ideas, especially once you complete a journal and get another. But the major struggle with digital is that I’m always around my kids and screens make it hard for me to focus on them AND to keep them off screens, so for now, pen and paper. Maybe one day I’ll write in an oasis of calm. Haha I also can’t believe that TP wasn’t splinter free until 1930!! So much explained about people’s faces in old photographs. Thank you! -Maria
January 13, 2024 at 2:58 pm
laureannawrites
Love the idea of “draft zero”. Thanks for sharing!
January 13, 2024 at 4:22 pm
madisu2021
Hey, Laureanna…fun to discover we’re on the same page! want to try the google doc idea in our waiting group? Enjoy your snow day…Madisu
January 13, 2024 at 3:00 pm
lhofke
This sounds like a good method to keep ideas organized.
Thanks for the advice
January 13, 2024 at 3:03 pm
Lisa Billa
Huge thanks for these tips on how to organize my “junk drawer” writing documents! I’m going to go back and do some highlighting and see what I can find, and maybe add some bold caps to key ideas. All the notebooks, though…
January 13, 2024 at 3:07 pm
leahmoserwrites
These are excellent tips! Thank you.
January 13, 2024 at 3:26 pm
melissajmiles1
Organization is always such a chore for me. I’m always down for finding ways to get it together, so thank you!
January 13, 2024 at 3:36 pm
paulajbecker
Wow, Laura, thank you for all this info! There’s a lot here to investigate! I so need a system! Btw, several of the kids magazines have non-fiction sections, and a history of TP would be fascinating (to read as well as illustrate!)
January 13, 2024 at 3:37 pm
paulajbecker
Sorry…Laurel!
January 13, 2024 at 3:45 pm
redreadsandwrites
I always write in documents – but I don’t usually avail myself of the search function. I am normally not someone who highlights but I think it will work for me! Thanks for the great idea! I am going to check out your books!
January 13, 2024 at 3:48 pm
clairebobrow
What a great tip, Laurel! I’ve been recording my ideas the old fashioned way all these years, which is like throwing them in a black hole. Thank you!!
January 13, 2024 at 3:49 pm
kelliannedy
I needed this! Thank you!
January 13, 2024 at 3:50 pm
Claudia Sloan
Thanks for the tips – very important! I love spreadsheets so that’s what I’ve been using for a couple years now and it works great for me (I love being able to search through it too and also have access to it anywhere – i.e. phone). But whatever format that works for each person is the way to go.
January 13, 2024 at 3:53 pm
Cathy Stefanec Ogren
Great post! I love your idea of how to organize ideas.
January 13, 2024 at 3:56 pm
tinefg
What great tips Laurel, thank you…I usually send myself an email when an idea hits, sadly, my phone is almost always more at hand than pen and paper. I transcribe the ideas get into a date planner (right now I’m filling one from 2020) each in a different color ink. Would love to try critique group brainstorming!
January 13, 2024 at 3:57 pm
julicaveny
Thanks for sharing your process with us! While I love handwriting all first drafts of PBs, I definitely use my word processor for MG. The “Headings” options can be a lifesaver for helping to organize early stages of a MS. -Juli (Juliann) Caveny
January 13, 2024 at 4:04 pm
hamblinkris
Thank you for your ideas. I store them in a storystorm notebook, on my computer, in the notes section of my phone and in my art journal depending on my mood. My sister has a daily planner with an index. Kris
January 13, 2024 at 4:06 pm
Natalie Lynn Tanner
LAUREL: “A junk drawer” for NON-JUNKY book ideas! I LOVE IT! THANK YOU for the WONDERFUL tips and tricks to organize our CREATIVE CHAOS!!! I’m also a BIG FAN of NF kids’ books, so I will DEFINITELY be checking out your books! THANK YOU!!!
January 13, 2024 at 6:48 pm
laurelneme
I love that — a junk drawer for NON-JUNKY ideas!!!! Thanks for your comment!! And fun use of CAPS! LOL!
January 13, 2024 at 4:09 pm
seahorsecoffeeelektra79018
WOW! I have always been a user of scraps of paper or journals for my ideas. Never thought of saving them electronically. Great tip. I could never find my notes when I needed them.
January 13, 2024 at 4:23 pm
Kimberly Marcus
I also moved from paper to electronic idea keeping. I went through all of my old written ideas and transferred them to a Storystorm notebook in Evernote so I can also add photos and links and even link to the Evernote document in my Scrivener draft if needed. I also write 0 drafts!! Such a great idea to write those drafts right away. I’m going to think on that! Thank you!!
January 13, 2024 at 4:27 pm
madisu2021
I revisited Julia Cameron’s : The Artist’s Way about an hour ago, (pp64-65). She reminded me to, ” ASK…and see what happens.”
I asked, and you and your ideas happened. Thank you.
January 13, 2024 at 4:32 pm
migratingmoosegmailcom
Great ideas!! I keep my ideas & drafts in Scrivener.
January 13, 2024 at 4:32 pm
jenniferjschmidte207d3cec9
I fell upon the long document method by default in my first Storystorm this year and I am glad it is a method that works!
January 13, 2024 at 4:33 pm
thehugbooks
I have a home made note board with sewing pins and little tags of story ideas on it. They fall off all the time, but it’s still exciting to hang up another little tag on in. Maybe one day I’ll go digital…
January 13, 2024 at 4:33 pm
cassiazaven
Writing in notebooks does not work for me either. I tried to write on index cards and placed them in my index holder. I check my notes from time to time and get pleasantly surprised. Thank you for your ideas and your post.
January 13, 2024 at 4:38 pm
cathyrose54
I have the same problem with writing down my ideas and forgetting where I put them. You’ve inspired me to try a digital solution.
January 13, 2024 at 4:41 pm
ACP
I’m not a spreadsheet user, but the idea of having a searchable way to access notes is tempting. Thanks for the post!
January 13, 2024 at 4:44 pm
LaurenKerstein
I LOVED your tips! I am always looking for better ways to organize information!
January 13, 2024 at 4:46 pm
Marie Prins
I like your tips! And I’ll use some of them to organize my computer list of story ideas. Thanks!
January 13, 2024 at 4:47 pm
jumpbaby
I put ideas in the notes section of my phone. For Storystorm I go through the list and move those that I’m really interested in onto a printed template I adapted a number of years ago. These are the ones that stand a chance of actually becoming a draft.
Cheryl Johnson
January 13, 2024 at 4:58 pm
susanahearn45
I like the idea of a better way to keep track of story ideas all in one spot. Thanks for the post!
January 13, 2024 at 4:59 pm
Steena Hernandez
Ooh, GREAT tips on ways to keep our ideas organized! Much needed for me, and I will try it! Thank you, Laurel!
January 13, 2024 at 5:00 pm
lauren
I was just debating moving to a digital solution too. I really prefer a notebook, but I’m ending up with so many different notebooks floating around, then having to track it down – and what to pack with me when I travel is always a dilemma. This seems at least worth trying out to see how it works!
January 13, 2024 at 5:01 pm
signeddiane
This is very similar to my process for tracking ideas! Except, I use an Excel spreadsheet. I started using it for Storystorm last year, but I have separate tabs for picture book versus chapter book. I have gone back to look at last year‘s list, and am developing a few of those stories, while continuing to update lists throughout the year. I highly recommend trying this excellent process described above!
January 13, 2024 at 5:03 pm
Elayne
I enjoyed reading/thinking about your process. I really lean into being nerdy with idea stuff. I have a Commonplace Book, a container full of index cards, a comedy inspiration notebook, a Google Photos private album (for on-the-go snaps and other visual inspo) and also use email drafts. I think of it as perfectly organized, even though it would drive a lot of people crazy. I love hearing what others, do, though–as always, we have to do what works for our brain process!
January 13, 2024 at 5:04 pm
ldodson100
This idea of cataloging ideas in a document, and then bolding, and colored hilighting to help visually separate within each one, are wonderful tips. Thank you!
January 13, 2024 at 5:16 pm
Kaye Baillie
I did (and still do) exactly what you described about the ‘scraps of paper’ method! To force myself to stop the ‘scrap’ method I started a notebook but then I found I would start another and another until I have ideas jotted down in goodness knows which notebook! Thanks for your helpful suggestions.
January 13, 2024 at 6:52 pm
laurelneme
I’m with you! You should see my file box full of notebooks filled (or not) with ideas! I was planning to take and include a photo of them for this post. I even jotted myself a note to do that on a scrap of paper so that I’d remember. Well, you can figure out what happened. Lol!
January 13, 2024 at 8:14 pm
Kaye Baillie
I have notebooks in drawers and containers and I really don’t know where to find anything! But I guess if I never throw them out then all the contents are there somewhere 🙂
January 13, 2024 at 5:22 pm
Writer on the run
Thanks Laurel- great suggestions!
January 13, 2024 at 5:30 pm
58chilihed13
I needed this post a great deal…hopefully with your fine advice I can sort through my 13 shelved/drawers of words, ideas, brilliance, dross, highs and lowest of lows!!
January 13, 2024 at 5:34 pm
Bedwards
Thank you for sharing how you organize your ideas. I, too, would write down ideas on slips of paper and then lose track of them. I appreciate your method and plan on giving it a try. Thanks again.
January 13, 2024 at 5:36 pm
lorimkeatingyahoocom
Great suggestions, Laurel! Thank you!
January 13, 2024 at 5:43 pm
D. Kim
Very organized and great tips! ✍️🍋🫐
January 13, 2024 at 5:44 pm
tinamcho
I used to type NF ideas in a Google doc with links. I’ll have to find it. Thanks for sharing your ideas.
January 13, 2024 at 5:45 pm
Janet Frenck Sheets
I’m the opposite–I find it more irritating to locate ideas in a computer file than in a notebook. But I share your fondness for color-coding. The important thing is to find a system that works, whether it’s the same or different than someone else’s. Thank you.
January 13, 2024 at 5:50 pm
sblotevogel
My type A personality loves this idea! Thanks for the suggestions!
January 13, 2024 at 6:07 pm
Aly Kenna
Great post Laurel. Love your process for keeping your ideas in one place and searchable. Will definitely give it a try. Standardizing colors and font up front, is good advice too. Thank you.
January 13, 2024 at 6:18 pm
schumerthc
Great process! Thanks
January 13, 2024 at 6:21 pm
meganewhitaker21
On my NOTES app on my phone. I must look to see if I can create albums though because I transfer them all to my computer but it would be helpful if they were all in an album on my phone. Hmm, must look now! congratulations on your books!
January 13, 2024 at 6:25 pm
Susan Johnston Taylor
Oo, I keep a running list in a Word document but I love the idea of keeping a Google doc with a critique group.
January 13, 2024 at 6:25 pm
goodreadswithronna
Super post!! Thanks. I was in the same boat, Laurel, until I began keeping a list in Notes on my iPhone in a folder I called Storystorm with each new year as a subhead, beginning in 2021. Before that I have no idea where I kept them but now will try your suggestion of downloading the list onto my laptop. I’ve actually used the list as a base and add to it throughout the year because it’s so easy to access having my phone always with me – except in the shower of course! 🙂
January 13, 2024 at 6:27 pm
cindyrivka
It’s difficult to keep track – of ideas, pieces of paper, even digital files. But thanks for the suggestions! Maybe some of it will help!
January 13, 2024 at 6:42 pm
mlyablonaolcom
I keep mine on my NOTES app on my phone, but I might see if I can somehow transfer them to my computer:)
January 13, 2024 at 6:46 pm
MichaelHenriksen
Thanks for sharing these great ideas, Laurel! I am actually in the process of sorting/compiling the contents of my many sketchbooks/notebooks, and your system sounds like a great straightforward way to help make my materials more easily searchable. Congrats & thank you!
January 13, 2024 at 6:51 pm
pescadita98
Great ideas. I will start a google document of ideas!
Thank you.
January 13, 2024 at 6:52 pm
Denise Gallagher
EXCELLENT advice!
Thank you so much! I am beginning to have a nice treasure trove of idea beginnings.
January 13, 2024 at 6:56 pm
haleypaige91
I love this technique! I’ve been using a mix of writing in random notebooks and/or the notes app, but this makes much more sense. Thanks for sharing this extremely helpful method!
January 13, 2024 at 6:59 pm
kellie906ce70f01
I hear you on the ‘ideas on scraps of paper’ thing … oh so many. Thanks for this suggestion Laurel.
January 13, 2024 at 7:09 pm
vgraboski61gmailcom
Thanks Laurel! I really like this idea. I have too many notebooks with ideas that are hard to find. I’m going to give this a try!
January 13, 2024 at 7:10 pm
Christina Dankert
I love having no expectations and to be unconcerned with editing…just keep writing. Great reminders, thank you!
January 13, 2024 at 7:17 pm
Jill Purtee (P. J.)
It took me YEARS to come up with a system to track with ideas. Little notes all over the place doesn’t work well. I still haven’t perfected it. Thanks for the tips.
January 13, 2024 at 7:19 pm
Annette Martin
Thanks for the GREAT idea!
January 13, 2024 at 7:30 pm
Angela Lebovic
I know I’m happy we’re living in a post-splintery toilet paper world 😋. Thanks for sharing your process!
January 13, 2024 at 7:32 pm
Sylvia Mary Grech
Thanks for your post Laurel!
January 13, 2024 at 7:35 pm
robinswingeditorial
I use a notebook during Storystorm but list ideas I want to pursue (eventually) on my computer. I think different approaches work for different people.
January 13, 2024 at 7:40 pm
Dayne Sislen, Children's Book Illustrator
Thank you so much for the organizational ideas for ideas. I really needed this. I have so many great ideas that just disappear because I don’t capture them in the moment.
January 13, 2024 at 7:41 pm
Gail Aherne
I have little slips of paper all over, so I really can’t wait to try your method. Thanks for sharing!
January 13, 2024 at 7:41 pm
Tara Cerven
I LOVE the idea of a running open doc with critique partners for ideas. Just fabulous! Thank you.
January 13, 2024 at 7:48 pm
heyhelenmacs
Thanks Laurel. The idea of colour coding, highlighting and capitalising is something I’ll take on board. I’m using a diary to keep track of ideas for Storystorm this year in the hope of continuing. But can now see a problem of flicking through so many ideas…Thanks also for heads up on NFFest!Helen H
January 13, 2024 at 8:10 pm
jenwritespbs
Thank you for sharing your idea cataloging process. This is super helpful!
January 13, 2024 at 8:11 pm
AngelaLucilleLongo
I keep all of my ideas split between the Notes app on my phone and a google doc titled Picture Book Ideas. I bullet point my ideas and plot them out in the google doc.
January 13, 2024 at 8:29 pm
authordebradaugherty
Thanks, Laurel. Highlighting an idea catalogue is a great idea. I also suggest backing your file. My computer crashed last year, and I lost all the StoryStorm PB ideas I had over the years.
January 13, 2024 at 8:44 pm
marshaelyn
Laurel,
You must have a mountain of inspirational ideas waiting to be carved into stories. Wow! I’m impressed. I especially liked this thought: “I don’t edit myself. Who knows where an idea might lead?” I worked as an educational editor for years and have difficulty hanging up that hat while I write. I’m getting better at drafting without judgement, thinking of the first drafts as playgrounds for words, characters and structure to have fun. Thank you for your insightful post. Sending you energy and inspiration for your continued success…
January 13, 2024 at 8:57 pm
Matthew Lasley
I do something similar. I have an excel spreadsheet that I put all my ideas down in. Each year of Story Storm has its own tab! Then I have tabs for other ideas. I sort them into genres, formats, idea types all with their own tabs and link them all together.
January 13, 2024 at 8:57 pm
saravan7747
This is super helpful! I also have multiple lists in multiple notebooks…! I especially appreciate the mass-brainstorm that includes different genres and audiences!
January 13, 2024 at 9:02 pm
mrbellasgmailcom
Junk drawer? I like it. Ha! I have a document where I store my ideas. I also have a notebook where I jot down ideas that come up and then transfer to the computer doc. Your system is more fun! Thank you, Laurel!
January 13, 2024 at 9:03 pm
Bill Werner
THANK YOU Laurel, super helpful ❤️❤️❤️
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January 13, 2024 at 9:03 pm
Trine Grillo
These are such great goals. I am guilty of collecting lots of random “important” information and ideas on scraps of paper!
January 13, 2024 at 9:23 pm
brintonculp
I’ll be looking for your upcoming book on TP! Thanks for the tips for organizing ideas.
January 13, 2024 at 9:31 pm
Ali V. (they/them)
This is just what I needed today!
January 13, 2024 at 9:35 pm
seschipper
Thanks, Laurel! Great points! I love color coding thoughts and ideas! It does help. 🙂
January 13, 2024 at 9:36 pm
8catpaws
If I take all my idea scraps of paper and put them in an electronic pocket, what will my paper-eating cat nibble on? )But seriously, good idea.)
January 13, 2024 at 9:39 pm
Marcia Berneger
I thought I had the perfect place last year. I had an extra calendar–the one with a page for each month. I wrote down ideas and filled up January’s spaces with ease. I kept the calendar handy, so I could look at the calendar during the year. Sadly, not only did I forget about the calendar during my every-day crazy life, I went to look for it this year to write down new Storystorm ideas (figuring I’d put them in Feb, next. year in March, and so forth), but I can’t find the calendar (and it was a pretty bg one). I’m hoping I didn’t throw it out one day in a fit of cleaning (without looking inside). I’ve searched everywhere. All those great ideas! Sigh!!
January 13, 2024 at 9:51 pm
rindabeach
Thanks for reminding me that without a way to save the ideas, they disappear.
January 13, 2024 at 9:55 pm
Earl @ The Chronicles Of A Children's Book Writer
I definitely need a better way of storing my ideas. I tried compiling them in a binder but it wasn’t inviting me to look over them again. (I was just rewriting them based on when I got the idea instead of grouping like ideas together. That may have been the problem.)
January 13, 2024 at 10:05 pm
marywarth
Great organization- thank you for the tips!
January 13, 2024 at 10:06 pm
rosihollinbeck
Wonderful tips. This is so much better than all the tattered notebooks and folders I have now. Thanks for the post.
January 13, 2024 at 10:19 pm
Monica Acker
Thanks for the post!
January 13, 2024 at 10:29 pm
Kylie Burns kysblog1
Oh, this is great! I am also a nonfiction writer, and after reading your post, I went straight to the NF Fest site to find out more. Thanks so much for your practical tips for tracking ideas!
January 13, 2024 at 10:59 pm
shirley301
Great tips for saving ideas. Thanks.
January 13, 2024 at 10:59 pm
gattodesign
I absolutely love your idea of date, highlight, etc. I use a book or google doc, not as organized as I’d like to be this is my year to get back on track and organize. I also absolutely love the idea of a writing group. If anyone wants to make one, let me know I’m in. You can contact me directly. Kim@designsbygatto.com. Thanks for the post. inspiring!
January 13, 2024 at 11:08 pm
Christine Letizia
That’s really neat that it’s searchable. So many ideas or simple thoughts collect in areas, but it’s hard to access them or scroll through them again. Thanks, Laurel!
January 13, 2024 at 11:09 pm
Kathryn LeRoy
Thanks for the inspiration.
January 13, 2024 at 11:12 pm
taracho4
I am not an organized person by nature, so I really enjoyed your post and was inspired by your system of wrangling your ideas! Thank you!
January 13, 2024 at 11:34 pm
Janette Johnson Melson
I keep paper and pen handy at my bedside to jot down dreams, and I tell Siri to make a note in my phone for ideas when I’m driving. Then I transfer them to a file on my computer when I am able.
January 13, 2024 at 11:40 pm
marty
Thank you, Laurel. What a great method for making ideas searchable and having one place to keep a running list of handy resources for researching + writing the story. Happy storystorming!
January 13, 2024 at 11:48 pm
gotoddgo3
I started this very kind of activity when I started this. Too many notebooks, too many loose papers, too much stuff. I appreciate the ‘specifics’ on how you do this; ideas galore!
January 14, 2024 at 12:12 am
Donna Rossman
I love the idea of a Google doc with color coding! Many thanks! 😊
January 14, 2024 at 12:15 am
Mari Richards
Last year I kept my ideas in an iPhone note, but it’s so much scrolling lol. This year I’m trying a Google doc with better headings for each day. Now I love the idea of adding blue, yellow and bold words to help me skim things later – that’s going to really help!
January 14, 2024 at 12:47 am
Adriana Gutierrez
I did something similar. I brainstorm my ideas in my journal and copy the main idea to my notes app. This year I added writing sprints and comp titles to my idea page.
January 14, 2024 at 12:47 am
Sally
This is great! Thank you!!
January 14, 2024 at 1:32 am
Janice Woods
So great! Thanks for sharing, Laurel!
January 14, 2024 at 1:40 am
syorkeviney
Laurel, I am a visual person… and while I appear to be organized and somewhat creative, I am really a collector, a doodler and a writer of sentence segments and ideas… with are totally whacky when I review them later… so thank you… I will strive again to bring some organization to this massive mess of memos, piles of PB pictures, and scores of story scratching . Thanks for adding color perhaps it will help! Fingers crossed, off I go!
January 14, 2024 at 1:53 am
Jeannette Suhr
Thanks, Laurel, for your organization ideas! My StoryStorm journal has helped me write down my ideas and keep them in one place. Then, when I have written a first draft of a story, I create a folder and add to it as I make each revision. It’s in my computer, too, but I like to have the story in hand as I work on it. It helps me to see all the changes I’ve made to it and all the notes as it progresses.
I’m looking forward to reading your books and I wish you continued success with your writing.
January 14, 2024 at 2:12 am
Mari Miyagi
I love your organization idea. Thank you for sharing!!
January 14, 2024 at 2:13 am
authorlaurablog
I love the idea of color coding things and I have a running Storystorm document that just gets added to each year. I start new numbers every year so I know if I get to 30 but each year is a different number of pages. I never thought of searching – I just reread through it for inspiration when I’m feeling stuck.
January 14, 2024 at 2:22 am
wyszguy
I think GENIUS is the appropriate term to apply here. Thank you so much for sharing!!!
January 14, 2024 at 2:47 am
steveheron
Thanks Laurel, I follow a similar routine using ‘notes’.
January 14, 2024 at 4:43 am
Jennifer Lu
I have an ongoing notebook and before that I was using note taking apps on my phone. I don’t tend to really go back and read any of my old ideas from before in either case though, usually I find the good ones to start with and try to write a story from those. I have thought if there is a better way to organize them though so thank you for this suggestion!
January 14, 2024 at 4:48 am
macsheperd
I still use post-it notes taped to a wall. But — since we all know the best ideas come while in the shower, there’s a cup pf sharpie markers in the bathroom to write on the mirror or outside of the shower door. And some in each room to write on the windows. I have a writer’s shed with big windows that I use as whiteboards. And finally, speaking of ALL CAPS, I learned one all important lesson after the Army PCSing our family all over the US, UK, and three sub-Saharan countries that I would like to share with everyone: No matter where you go in this great nation and great wide world
—- NEVER underestimate the importance of AMERICAN toilet paper.
January 14, 2024 at 4:51 am
91mikim19
I do usually like to write with pencil and paper but I do agree that using the notes app on my phone makes it easy to search.
January 14, 2024 at 4:54 am
91mikim19
I like how my notes app makes it easier to search by pen and paper is always more spontaneous and natural.
January 14, 2024 at 5:12 am
Miki Matsumoto
Pen and paper then take a pic
January 14, 2024 at 5:12 am
Catherine Friess
I love the idea of colour coding – thank you Laurel 🙂
January 14, 2024 at 5:34 am
Patricia Holloway
I think this way of tracking ideas is brilliant! I’m going to give myself the freedom to brainstorm. Thank you’
January 14, 2024 at 7:06 am
flewk1
A “junk drawer” with blue and yellow highliter! A perfect solution to my scraps-of-paper mess. Thank you.
January 14, 2024 at 7:12 am
lynjekowsky
I keep track of my ideas in my Story Storm notebook, but there’s no rhyme or reason to formatting.
Your idea of color coding is terrific!
January 14, 2024 at 7:22 am
Suzanne Lewis
Oh, Laurel, I have found a kindred spirit in your use of google docs “as a placeholder for ideas”. I love beautiful notebooks too, but when I need to write judgment free in a format that I so can easily refer to/develop later, it’s the laptop that serves me best!
January 14, 2024 at 7:26 am
jessaroux
It’s so hard to go back through my various notebooks to find specific ideas. This is an excellent idea!
January 14, 2024 at 8:13 am
readmybook2002
Great information on how to do it better. Lots of paper everywhere dotting/covering my walls around my desk. Neil Gaiman writes his first drafts on paper before he touches computer keys. He collects assorted pens to write with so it’s a smooth process.
January 14, 2024 at 8:16 am
Lindsay Moretti
I have an idea bank filled to the brim, but you’ve inspired me to organize it so my ideas are more easily accessible. Thanks for sharing your organizing tips!
January 14, 2024 at 8:25 am
Barbara Farland
Organization often means productivity for me. This idea will help! Thanks!
January 14, 2024 at 9:03 am
Lindsey Aduskevich
Thank you for this idea, Laurel! I have always kept my ideas either in my journal or in the notes on my phone if my journal wasn’t nearby. But I love the idea of a Google docs shared with critique partners. 😊
January 14, 2024 at 9:32 am
Andria Rosenbaum
What fabulous tips to stay organized.
Much better than the many notebooks I have laying around :-)!
January 14, 2024 at 9:40 am
jcherney3
Going to get my highlighters
January 14, 2024 at 9:53 am
kkgchoco
Thank you for sharing this helpful process, Laurel. Every day new inspirations abound, and you’ve added to that exponentially.
January 14, 2024 at 10:29 am
Jessie D. Phillips
I use Trello to keep up with my ideas. I find it really helpful, and you can search there as well. I like your idea of changing the format of the text though to use for a later time when reviewing those ideas again.
January 14, 2024 at 10:30 am
Katherine Pew
So helpful hearing the details of your organizational process, Laurel! Thanks for your post!
January 14, 2024 at 10:51 am
laurakbower
Thank you Laurel! I struggle a bit with the organization of my ideas so this is very helpful! (Now off to find all those random post it notes I have all around the house 😉
January 14, 2024 at 11:25 am
Valerie
I use One note so I can access it on my phone and computer.
January 14, 2024 at 11:35 am
Srividhya Venkat
Excellent post! I usually do notebooks and as you said, I have to read through page-by-page, AND I have to remember to do it!! Thanks for your idea to store ideas digitally. Can’t wait to start!!
January 14, 2024 at 11:36 am
Kristi Mahoney
I’m definitely trying this process. Thanks so much, Laurel!
January 14, 2024 at 12:06 pm
peasecja
Love the efficiency of this idea! In the fast-paced world we live in…this really lends itself to finding the time to collect ideas use them in full reality!
January 14, 2024 at 12:36 pm
Deborah Ishii
I usually use a notebook or journal, but want to try your organizational techniques! Thanks!
January 14, 2024 at 12:58 pm
MDalphin Williams Creative.Com
Thanks Laurel. Wow. Who would’ve thought there was so much toilet paper produced! My mother’s family still used catalogues in an outhouse when she was little. I’ve written ideas on magazines in the bathroom only to recycle them later. Your’s is a much better system.
January 14, 2024 at 1:08 pm
Jud Ward
I’m tactile so I am still going to have the notebook with paper stuffed in it. However, the idea of being able to color code and search on computer is motivation for me to go digital as well so my brain doesn’t overload and explode. Thanks!
January 14, 2024 at 1:25 pm
TerriMichels
Napkins, slips of paper, post-it notes, journals, notebooks, folders. I love and have them all. Thank you for the ideas on organizing. I feel better already!
January 14, 2024 at 1:26 pm
kellyclasenwriter
I agree with Jud above. The color-coding technique is an excellent idea. Thank you!
January 14, 2024 at 1:33 pm
effiekoliopoulos
I write down all my ideas electronically as well, and print them out after if needed. I have arthritis so using a journal to write down every single idea which is A LOT… isn’t feasible. Plus like you said it’s easy to search for it. Thanks for sharing your tips!!
January 14, 2024 at 1:53 pm
Sara Weingartner
Thank you for sharing, Laurel! I have a mess of ideas (journals in a box) that are crying for organization. I’m definitely trying your spreadsheet method!
January 14, 2024 at 2:11 pm
Diane O'Neill
Thanks for the inspiration!! I have different online documents I use for ideas. I took a poetry course where one presenter described how he keeps a tongue-in-cheek “Epic” document where he puts all his ideas and random thoughts and poetic lines for the month, and later he sees what fits together, and plays with the order. So I do something similar–but never thought of highlighting the parts that stand out to me–thanks for that idea!!! I also have a form I use to specifically collect my Storystorm ideas, as this is a special time of year 🙂 Thanks so much for the tips and ideas!!
January 14, 2024 at 2:24 pm
Judith Snyder
I’ll give this a try. Anything to help me organize and get rid of scraps of paper all over my desk. Thanks.
January 14, 2024 at 2:45 pm
melanietcm
For Storystorm is year, I’ve been keeping ideas in the notes section of my phone rather than a notebook. Easily accessible!
Sent from my iPhone
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January 14, 2024 at 3:42 pm
Carmen Swick-Author
I have scraps of papers on my desk in folders and this week I started on my computer. I am one that can use some originations 😉
January 14, 2024 at 4:01 pm
robinmeby
Great ideas, Laurel! Thank you for sharing your process with us!
January 14, 2024 at 4:04 pm
dlapmandi
I love this idea. I especially like the highlighting to help lead my attention to certain key words and websites. Thanks for the post.
January 14, 2024 at 4:35 pm
shadikafi
great advice on how to organize my ideas, thank you so much!
January 14, 2024 at 4:40 pm
Amy Martinez
Thank you! This is exactly what I needed to hear today. I was out and about yesterday and ended up texting myself an idea….unfortunately, I never read my own texts. 🙂
I like the idea of using Google Docs since I have the app on my phone. Now I have an electronic place to jot my ideas that I can access anywhere. Thanks!
January 14, 2024 at 5:02 pm
jennaejo
Great idea! I tend to write ideas down on my notes app. But I like the idea of highlighting things in different colors to keep track and so that my stronger ideas will stand out.
January 14, 2024 at 5:10 pm
riverwoods21
Thanks for a great idea.
January 14, 2024 at 5:29 pm
Joyce Frank
I love this. My little notebook isn’t working. Onward to a searchable catalog.
January 14, 2024 at 5:36 pm
sburdorf
Color coding. Love it. Thank you for sharing your ideas! I write ideas down everywhere then can never remember where I put things… now I use a small notebook. Thank you for sharing your process!
January 14, 2024 at 5:39 pm
mattsthrockmorton
Thanks Laurel, I haven’t really thought about keeping zero draft digitally, but it makes so much sense!
January 14, 2024 at 6:12 pm
Ali V. (they/them)
I’m finding I have to start on paper these days – storage is definitely a problem!
January 14, 2024 at 6:13 pm
Judy Sobanski
Great suggestions for organizing ideas! I keep a file on my computer desktop where I stash photos and articles for possible story ideas.
January 14, 2024 at 6:16 pm
Carla Gullett
Thank you for your post! I’m especially excited to learn about NF Fest… That’s a great resource. Here’s wishing you all the best with your future writing projects!
January 14, 2024 at 6:18 pm
Fiona Bannatyne
I have had a ‘gather all story ideas on scraps of paper scattered round the house and digitise’ job on my to-do list for over 6 months so this is more than timely! And I got a non-fiction idea down, my first ever, so big bonus. Thank you.
January 14, 2024 at 6:36 pm
Leah Marks
Although I already use the computer when generating my ideas, I loved that you highlight and use different colors to separate and define each part. It makes it so much easier on the eye. Thanks
January 14, 2024 at 6:47 pm
Garnett Natasha
Thanks, Laurel. Searchable! Hmmm. Great tips.
January 14, 2024 at 7:05 pm
TL Fales
This makes me realize that I need to come up with an idea storage solution. Thanks for the tips on where to start.
January 14, 2024 at 7:07 pm
Janet Smart
Thanks for the tips. I love writing NF for kids, too. I used to write a kids’ column in a regional magazine. I have a folder that I used to put my ideas into, articles I’d cut out, ideas I’d gotten from TV shows and anything else that I thought of. I need to go back to that folder and take a look.
January 14, 2024 at 8:18 pm
Maria Marshall
Laurel, that was a fun post. I have notebooks of Storystorm ideas. I’ve gone through tagged the ideas that became stories, but this “zero draft” sounds interesting. Thank you for the idea!
January 14, 2024 at 9:48 pm
Melissa Stoller
Thanks Laurel! I love these tips about organizing ideas!
January 14, 2024 at 9:59 pm
Darcee A Freier
I keep my Storystorm list in my Bullet Journal, and add to it all year. But, it’s not searchable, and sometimes last year’s is SO far away (upstairs on my bookshelf 🙂 ). Thanks for sharing your way to save ideas.
January 14, 2024 at 10:34 pm
anaarchistories
Love the idea of zero drafts!
January 14, 2024 at 10:46 pm
Artelle Lenthall
Thank you Laurel. Love the different coloured ink for critique members
January 14, 2024 at 10:52 pm
percyandcat
Wow, Laurel, what great ideas. I was doing the same thing, jotting down ideas on paper and then losing them; the idea was gone (poof), not helpful. So, I started putting them in a special place on my computer so I could retrieve them whenever I wanted. I love the color-coding idea and can see how helpful that would be. Thank you!
January 14, 2024 at 11:51 pm
Jane F.
I like your way of organizing ideas on computer. It’s time to get away from my notebook with sticky notes on the pages and colored tabs to find things.
January 15, 2024 at 12:00 am
lisakdaviswriting
I love that idea and how easy you made it to search! I’m going to have to th that!! I also love how you and your critique partners did storystorm. That’s nice to have that kind of community!!
January 15, 2024 at 12:00 am
stacyallen
I love tips like this! Thanks!
January 15, 2024 at 12:44 am
Tarja Helena Nevala
I’m a day late. I do need to thank you for sharing your idea collecting method. This is something I have thought about.
January 15, 2024 at 1:27 am
Jolene Ballard Gutiérrez
Thank you for these organization strategies, Laurel!
January 15, 2024 at 2:22 am
Sally Matheny
Oh, mercy. I can relate to this post in so many ways. One of which is the curiousity about the history of things–like toilet paper! 🙂
January 15, 2024 at 5:21 am
marias62
I am now using a notebook for idea storage. I am intrigued by your method of cataloguing ideas electronically so that it’s searchable. I can’t wait to try it!
January 15, 2024 at 6:04 am
ellecarlinauthor
I am actually starting to Transfer my ideas to digital notebooks… these are great ideas thank you!
January 15, 2024 at 6:30 am
carmelamccainsimmons
I love this! Paper scraps and notebooks didn’t work well for me either, so I simply pull out my phone and use NOTES to capture ideas. I love that my phone is usually right there with me. But free-writing on my computer takes this to a new level. Time to share those notes to my computer to create searchable projects. Thanks for this brilliant tip!
January 15, 2024 at 9:13 am
Eileen Saunders
Thanks for your story. I keep a journal with a magnetic closure to hold extra note pages. But I’m a journaler and read through it often to combine ideas or start something new. That’s my searchable file. I use post it notes on my office wall with things I’m working on. I find computer cataloguing is restrictive. I like flipping pages between ideas.
January 15, 2024 at 10:03 am
Kindness Kangaroo
It’s a good idea to have an organized system. I have notebooks filled with ideas and even a card catalogue filled with cards of ideas – it is time I look into a more organized system.
January 15, 2024 at 10:35 am
Laura Wippell
Thanks for sharing your tips, Laurel. Such a good point – there’s no point generating story ideas if we can’t find them later on!
January 15, 2024 at 11:01 am
safajar
Love this idea. Thank you!
January 15, 2024 at 11:11 am
kristarantino
Great ideas on catching, and keeping ideas! Thank you!
January 15, 2024 at 11:34 am
Deena Viviani
I loooove writing journals, but as a librarian, I am easily annoyed by the fact they are not searchable documents lol!
January 15, 2024 at 11:55 am
Jane Heitman Healy
Laurel, I think your post just solved a huge problem for me. I have a drawer full of little notebooks and snippets of paper holding ideas. But they aren’t searchable! It will be a process, but putting them all into an online document will make it searchable. I have rejected this idea previously because I am not always near a device. However, if I just jot an idea down, I can add it to my document as soon as I have access. Here we go, and I will possibly find some nuggets worth developing along the way.
January 15, 2024 at 12:09 pm
triciacandy
Wow. This is a great system! Thank you!
January 15, 2024 at 12:32 pm
Leslie Santamaria
I had just started a similar system, and your post is going to help expand my process for capturing ideas even more. Thanks, Laurel!
January 15, 2024 at 1:10 pm
claireannette1
I use sticky notes that I carry and stick them in my Storystorm notebook but I’m going to try to organize my ideas using your suggestions.
January 15, 2024 at 1:24 pm
carolynleillustrations
Thank you for all the great do-able tips.
January 15, 2024 at 1:40 pm
Mary A Zychowicz
Great suggestions! Thank you much.
January 15, 2024 at 1:44 pm
jilltatara
This post was SO HELPFUL! Thank you so much! I have had a problem with too many ideas and not enough organizational skills. So this post was perfect!
January 15, 2024 at 2:22 pm
Carol Porter
I love this idea. I have notes all over the place. I also think my CG would love to share ideas.
January 15, 2024 at 2:31 pm
Heidi Chupp
Thank you Laurel! I love that you found your sweet spot for organizing your ideas. 🙂
January 15, 2024 at 2:59 pm
Marci Whitehurst
Great idea! I have notes everywhere as well…
January 15, 2024 at 3:27 pm
Laura F. Nielsen
Great idea. I’m digitizing all sorts of documents so I can find them later. Why not ideas.
January 15, 2024 at 4:07 pm
karammitchell
Great tips, Laurel! I’m terrible about not highlighting. Great reminder!
January 15, 2024 at 4:21 pm
kathleengauer
Love your suggestion to start my own searchable catalogue of ideas instead of shuffling through endless scraps of handwritten notes.
January 15, 2024 at 4:24 pm
lzgodfrey
I love this – I have a searchable Word doc, but your process is more freeing than that. Thank you!
January 15, 2024 at 4:34 pm
Gayle Veitenheimer
Talk about felt need. Great idea!
January 15, 2024 at 4:58 pm
kathleengauer
I would love to win a copy of your book Samara Rubin and the Utility Belt. Amazing that you were able to turn a picture book idea into a middle grade novel! Guess I will have to dig deeper into my own utility belt.
January 15, 2024 at 4:58 pm
Virginia Rinkel
Thanks, Laurel. I will try this method, as I’m in need of more organization.
January 15, 2024 at 5:00 pm
elizabethwilcoxsaba
Thanks for the organizing tips! Very helpful!
January 15, 2024 at 5:15 pm
helenlysicatos
I like the idea of a searchable file. That will make things much easier when deciding on what will be my next draft.
January 15, 2024 at 6:03 pm
Michelle Howell Miller
Love this idea. I jot down notes in my iPhone, but it’s not very searchable. Also love the idea of storystorming with critique partners. Thank you for the post!
January 15, 2024 at 6:08 pm
kyavorski
I also do this with my article ideas (I also write for adults). Why didn’t I think of extending it to PBs?
January 15, 2024 at 6:11 pm
Angela De Groot
I use a notebook. I start each year with a new writing notebook full of StoryStorm ideas and tips from each StoryStorm post. I do like the idea of a Google doc catalogue of my ideas with links and notes that I can add to. An electronic catalogue would definitely make it easier to find specific past ideas.
January 15, 2024 at 6:12 pm
staceygustafson
Good advice…I don’t edit myself. Who knows where an idea might lead?
January 15, 2024 at 7:23 pm
swollis
What a great idea. I’m going to give it a go.
January 15, 2024 at 8:07 pm
michelerietz
Thanks Laurel! I keep my ideas in a notebook where I also keep my notes from storystorm. Your method seems very organized and helpful!
January 15, 2024 at 8:09 pm
Stephanie D Jones
I love the idea of an online StoryStorm document, and the idea of a shared doc with writing partners. In fact, I have a slew of organizational ideas that you’ve motivated — where to start?
January 15, 2024 at 8:42 pm
Tracy Abell
Thank you for this wonderful idea that will keep me from having to page through notebooks in search of whatever I’m looking for. I’m setting up my google doc right now!
January 15, 2024 at 9:14 pm
sarapetersohn
A shared document with critique partners is a great idea! I also think there must be a good story inside the history of TP. Splinter-free is important! 🙂 Thanks for this post, Laurel!
January 15, 2024 at 9:26 pm
Kristen Indahl
Electronic organization with no pressure – that’s great. My ideas are in an absolutely unorganized notebook lol, including several years of Storystorm jottings. I do have a second notebook organized by steps in the process, from inspiring pointers to get started to how best to edit, so that’s something. But I need to try this freeflow idea document – thank you!
January 15, 2024 at 9:48 pm
Judy Abelove Shemtob
How exciting to have a running catalog of ideas, Laurel! Your process sounds perfect for those of us who keep going down rabbit holes when reading and researching! Thanks for the tips.
January 15, 2024 at 10:31 pm
Olivia Fisher
I really relate to your cataloging method. I have a running list of “story ideas” on my computer as well as lots of ideas for articles and little snippets of information on my phone notes. It’s so handy to organize them though! I love your color system.
January 15, 2024 at 10:36 pm
Charlene Patton
Thanks for this post, Laurel! I have an idea notebook. I tend to look
January 15, 2024 at 11:23 pm
sarahsteinbacher24
I currently have all my ideas in a notebook and having them in one place helps me combine idea fragments together in interesting ways. But I like the idea of a searchable document!
January 15, 2024 at 11:45 pm
Susan Schade
You found a great way to organize ideas! Sounds perfect for a critique group too.
January 16, 2024 at 12:45 am
theliah1
Thank you, Laurel for sharing your process and giving me the tools the help generate ideas.
January 16, 2024 at 12:49 am
cynthia2337
Laurel,
I am a fan of color-coding on manuscripts and critiques, too. You sparked a thought. Thinking to use the JOURNAL APP that appeared on my I-Phone the other day in this fashion. (I did check to be sure the app was legit…LOL) Sounds like anyone with an app like this may organize easily and should be able to access the info they want to recall by using the search box within the app.
Thanks so much for your post.
January 16, 2024 at 12:50 am
jlehson
Oooh is non-fiction fest an annual thing? Also a big nonfiction person!! And I love the term “digital junk drawer” that’s exactly what I have lol!
January 16, 2024 at 8:43 am
Jen Lynn Bailey
a searchable file is a fantastic idea. Thank you!
January 16, 2024 at 8:45 am
sarahpeacetobias
Thanks for sharing your process.
January 16, 2024 at 8:51 am
Melissa H. Mwai
100% me. I keep a searchable list on my phone.
January 16, 2024 at 9:12 am
Melanie Ellsworth
Thanks, Laurel. I have been doing something very similar in Word over the years. Now it’s time to browse the list again and pull out a few favorites!
January 16, 2024 at 9:18 am
michelemeleen
I haven’t heard this idea before, so thanks for sharing! I, too, often find myself not remembering much of what an idea originally was. Maybe I’ll give your tips a try!
January 16, 2024 at 11:05 am
libbydemmon
Guys. Toilet paper used to have splinters. SPLINTERS.
January 16, 2024 at 11:51 am
elisederstine
Thanks for the tips! I also keep a running document with ideas/articles/concepts. I usually start a new one at the beginning of Storystorm every year!
January 16, 2024 at 11:56 am
Sarah Meade
Thanks for this post, Laurel! I too have collected many scraps of idea papers that it’s hard to part with. I have a Google doc of story ideas, but this year I’m using a notebook. Great tips here!
January 16, 2024 at 12:05 pm
snor5bddfeabba4
great idea!
January 16, 2024 at 12:23 pm
Melissa Escobar
Excellent and interesting idea there! I’ve been using the Freeform app on my Macbook to do just that! I’ve got boards for many things and it’s a way to collect all those scraps of paper ideas. I will keep going, thank you for this great post.
January 16, 2024 at 12:44 pm
chaunceyelephant
Great ideas for holding onto those ideas that so often just disappear! Thanks
January 16, 2024 at 12:50 pm
erozmus
I need to get better about writing/saving my ideas. They get lost in the shuffle of my brain too often! I get so many from my dreams. Writing that down now…
January 16, 2024 at 1:49 pm
Janet Halfmann
I love this searchable catalog idea!
January 16, 2024 at 2:26 pm
Linda B
Thanks for the wonderful tips. I love the idea of writing key words in CAPS. I can’t wait to try it.
January 16, 2024 at 5:11 pm
Deborah Ishii
Thanks for all the organizational tips! I’ll definitely be putting them to good use!
January 16, 2024 at 5:48 pm
writerdoreenrobinson
What a great way to stay organized and keep those ideas in one place!
January 16, 2024 at 6:11 pm
DrZatHome
I LOVE this idea for organizing ideas!!
January 16, 2024 at 7:29 pm
kdgwrites
I like this idea. I do have all my story storm ideas on a document! Sounds like I’m on the right track.
January 16, 2024 at 7:43 pm
juliereich
I like the idea of writing down EVERYTHING. Who knows when inspiration might strike?
January 16, 2024 at 9:24 pm
topangamaria
I appreciate your way of having a place where ideas can just rip
and be stored too.
January 16, 2024 at 10:10 pm
alamarre7571bc92b
Great idea! Just make sure you save a copy of your ideas on the Cloud or some backup system!!
January 17, 2024 at 10:50 am
Melissa McDaniel
Such a great idea, Laurel! Thank you!
January 17, 2024 at 11:47 am
cnparch
Great ideas! Thank you. 🙂
January 17, 2024 at 11:57 am
Jessica Read
Thank you!
January 17, 2024 at 12:04 pm
swwriter1
I think most of us could use a little more organization, so thank you for your helpful post.
January 17, 2024 at 1:41 pm
Jamie Bills
I love that you worked on storystorm ideas with your critique partners. That would definitely be a way to stay accountable and active.
January 17, 2024 at 2:59 pm
Mary Beth Rice
Love the idea of writing a draft before the first draft!
January 17, 2024 at 3:17 pm
thelogonauts
Fun! I use Trello which lets me sort “cards” (ideas) into categories, which I like.
Also, my first published article is about the history of birthday candles!
Katie McEnaney
January 18, 2024 at 5:54 pm
laurelneme
Congrats on your article!! Sounds interesting!!!
January 17, 2024 at 4:55 pm
Mandie Speese
Laurel, Thank you so much for this. I am a bit of an organization nerd so I appreciate this!
January 17, 2024 at 6:05 pm
Janet AlJunaidi
Thank you Laurel! This is such a good idea and thank you for the specifics – that really helps.
January 17, 2024 at 9:56 pm
jindreame
I love the idea for organizing in a searchable database.
January 17, 2024 at 9:59 pm
Aimee Larke
Thank you for this post. I also keep a running Googledoc of ideas. I LOVE that you worked on a doc with your critique partners.
January 17, 2024 at 10:30 pm
KamillaM
Great Strategy! Thank you for sharing this.
January 17, 2024 at 10:39 pm
mwinikates
Searchability is so nice. Depending on the serendipity of picking up the right notebook and finding the right page is fun but not relaxing or reliable! I’d be curious if anyone else has tools other than GoogleDocs that they like? Airtable? Evernote? something I’ve never heard of but should have?
January 21, 2024 at 1:43 am
Dawn Prochovnic
I use Evernote–but I MUCH preferred the legacy version that they have now discontinued. The most basic version now available is clunkier and less responsive than the old version (AND it’s pricier). I’ve scoured the comments in this post to learn about other options. One new option that someone mentioned a few comments back is the Freeform app on the mac, which I plan to look into.
January 17, 2024 at 11:47 pm
marcihersel
This is super helpful, thank you! I have many idea books flying around somewhere. So I definitely need to try this method.
January 18, 2024 at 9:52 am
daydreambelievin
Thank you for sharing. This is very similar to what I do.
January 18, 2024 at 10:46 am
Viviane Elbee
Oh, thanks for this tip. I have been writing ideas all over the place – in notebooks and on my phone (and one time I lost my phone). A searchable Google Doc sounds like a great idea. Have you read A History of Toilet Paper (and Other Potty Tools) by Sophia Gholz? You’d probably enjoy it!
January 18, 2024 at 12:16 pm
kathleenplucker
My lack of organization (or a plan for it) has taken a toll recently. Thank you for sharing your system with us.
Scalloped edges on toilet paper – can’t stop thinking about that.
January 18, 2024 at 12:33 pm
Charlotte Glaze
Thanks! I add ideas on a document on my phone, then transfer them to my computer occasionally to keep them all together.
January 18, 2024 at 3:43 pm
Sasha
Thanks, Laurel, for your tips! I always look for ways to better organize my ideas. No, just organize. That would be a start.
January 18, 2024 at 3:54 pm
tinagraham103
Great tips Laurel, thanks. I have used Google docs for work purposes and can definitely see the benefits versus scraps of paper! I am a multi notebook person🙈😄
January 18, 2024 at 3:56 pm
lauranclement
Really great tips Laurel! Thank you so much for this post.
January 18, 2024 at 4:02 pm
M. Fuller-Morris
Great tips Laurel, thanks!
January 18, 2024 at 4:50 pm
Michelle Dragalin
I always color code my stuff this is a great idea!
January 18, 2024 at 4:57 pm
susaninez0905
Thanks for sharing this, a wonderful way to keep up with new ideas and not feel overwhelmed.
January 18, 2024 at 7:24 pm
debbiemoeller
What a wonderful idea! I have mine written in a notebook that often sits dormant on the shelf. I’m guilty of editing often and not creating often enough! Having it on my computer would make it more useful. Thanks for the tip!
January 18, 2024 at 7:30 pm
Kelly A.
I use Google Drive to save my ideas, one folder for each year (Storystorm 2023, Storystorm 2024, etc.) and then new docs in those folders with each new idea. I love browsing back through them and seeing what I have!
January 18, 2024 at 8:47 pm
Dawn M.
Great suggestions. I agree about the notebook.
January 19, 2024 at 11:26 am
Christine Strena
I really want to be a notebook person too but google drive seems to be working for me right now. Thanks for the tips!
January 19, 2024 at 4:13 pm
lecon
Such a good idea! I’m slowly organizing my box of ideas and jotting things into a notebook, but a searchable document would be even better. Thanks!
January 19, 2024 at 5:34 pm
Christina
I am one of those writers who have notebooks lying everywhere. Thank you for the tips on how to catalog my ideas better.
January 19, 2024 at 5:59 pm
sjctenney
Yay, Laurel! How fun that you wrote a Storystorm post! I need to be better about collecting and writing down ideas. Thanks for the inspiration!
January 19, 2024 at 6:59 pm
Jim Chaize
I’m hoping your post will inspire me to step-up my idea recording method. Thanks.
January 20, 2024 at 12:57 pm
Bernadette E. Wallace
So, here I am posting a comment a WEEK after you wrote this blog!
It doesn’t diminish the importance of what you had to say.
I use a variety of notebooks to write ideas and full stories. This system works for me, but I’m willing to try an electronic version.
Thanks for the many valuable tips.
January 20, 2024 at 6:16 pm
michellehlosardo
A Zero Draft Journal – genius! and splinter-free TP?! Yikes!
January 20, 2024 at 6:36 pm
Eileen Mayo
What a creative way to catalog ideas! Thanks for the suggestion.
January 20, 2024 at 7:08 pm
Gaby L.
Hi Laurel, so glad to read your post, is one of my favorites. Thank you for sharing your experience with us and I will love to start my searchable catalogue of ideas.
January 20, 2024 at 11:31 pm
brittanypomales
Searchable ideas sounds so smart.
January 21, 2024 at 1:47 am
Dawn Prochovnic
This is a great post, Laurel. Thanks so much. I’ve used Evernote for many years in much the same way as you describe (though I’ve not standardized my bold/caps/color/highlights and aim to do as you suggest in the future). Back to Evernote, I MUCH preferred the legacy version that they have now discontinued. The most basic version now available is clunkier and less responsive than the old version (AND it’s pricier). I’ve scoured the comments in this post to learn about other options. Thanks for prompting this helpful collection of ideas!
January 21, 2024 at 4:01 pm
Robin M Keeler
I use one notebook to jot ideas (usually). For Storystorm 2024 I am using my (paper) planner! I like the idea of having ideas all in one place and searchable – so I may take the time to transfer them all to an electronic format. Thanks for sharing your organizational process!
January 21, 2024 at 9:38 pm
Christine Fleming McIsaac
Such a good topic! I have a similar method, but like your tips for find things more easily. Thanks! ________________________________
January 22, 2024 at 2:49 am
brilawyer
I have a searchable catalog of ideas in a Google Doc, and it’s so helpful! Thanks for sharing your tips you use in yours!
January 22, 2024 at 11:22 am
Sheri Dillard
Great post! Thanks for sharing, Laurel! 🙂
January 22, 2024 at 1:34 pm
Lauri Meyers
I’m glad you find a system that works. I’m still using an annual journal. Sometimes I transfer them into a spreadsheet but mostly I just flip through when I need a jolt. Love the zero draft idea!
January 22, 2024 at 9:59 pm
Patricia Tiffany Morris
I love the idea of a regular review of your idea entries. I use Scrivener to collect new story ideas, and color code the files, and add images for inspiration. I need to do more complete story development for the first drafts “sooner” so I don’ loss the flow of inspiration. Thanks.
January 22, 2024 at 10:59 pm
kathydoherty1
Thanks, Laurel. I’ve always heard about the value of freewriting…but this is the first time I actually want to take the time to do it!
January 23, 2024 at 4:03 am
sdscottwritere2ea7c1ce4
Thanks for this really thought-provoking post. My bookshelf is overflowing with notebooks and it’s driving me crazy. I like your idea much better. I’ve used One Note for work projects in the past, and I think that this might also be a great solution. Thanks again.
January 23, 2024 at 5:38 am
sharongiltrowauthor
I want to do this so I wrote the idea down in my notebook but I really want to do it so I wrote the idea on a post it note and put it on my desk. Next step setting it up on the computer. Thank you!
January 23, 2024 at 6:20 pm
mnlfam
Thanks so much for your post. I wonder how many good ideas are regularly lost. I started using excel as my idea catcher and it has evolved into a color coded mass that probably only I could decipher 🙂 It’s so important not to let any good ones get away; I still think I need white board for the shower.
January 23, 2024 at 7:11 pm
allyenz
I love this! So simple, and yet it definitely will help me to get into the flow without editing. Thank you for sharing!
January 24, 2024 at 7:55 am
Nadine Poper
I write my ideas in a designated Storystorm notebook and separate the years. I do highlight the ideas I am passionate about and often go back to.
January 24, 2024 at 11:39 am
jenngautam
I prefer having a digital copy of my ideas- then I can jot it down wherever I am!
January 24, 2024 at 12:29 pm
kkeppol
Thank you for the ideas
January 24, 2024 at 5:55 pm
Anita
I like this idea, less scraps of paper.
January 25, 2024 at 12:43 am
sharonkdal
I need this. My ideas are all over the place!
January 25, 2024 at 12:36 pm
Susan Contreras
thank you, I need that junk drawer!
January 25, 2024 at 3:19 pm
Deb McGarvey
This sounds like a great way to organize ideas. I love the color coding!
January 25, 2024 at 7:27 pm
Mary Ann Blair
I love the idea of color coding and highlighting key words. What a useful tool. Thanks for sharing your ideas!
January 25, 2024 at 11:27 pm
cravevsworld
The zero draft approach works well. When you look back to see an idea, you already have the document ready to go, so you’re one step closer to the magic. Thanks for sharing!
January 26, 2024 at 5:47 am
Rick Starkey
Thanks for sharing your process.
January 26, 2024 at 10:38 am
shereenicole
Thank you for sharing!
January 26, 2024 at 10:57 am
kvavala
What a helpful and inspiring way to organize! Thank you for sharing your great tips!
January 26, 2024 at 6:08 pm
Bettie Boswell
Thank you for sharing.
January 26, 2024 at 7:26 pm
streetlynn
Keeping ideas organized is so important! Thanks for sharing your process!
January 27, 2024 at 10:17 pm
Jenn
I definitely need a better system for organizing my ideas. I have a series of notebooks I’ve happily labeled “where the plot bunnies live” because they usually come to me when I’m working on something else – but there’s no order to it.
January 28, 2024 at 11:15 am
Rachel Rizzuto
Thank you, Laurel!
January 28, 2024 at 7:37 pm
Melissa Hastings
I began cataloguing my ideas in a spreadsheet during last year’s Storystorm. I included columns for status (done for now, pending, in progress) and last updated. In addition to adding links to other articles/things to explore further, I add hyperlinks to the docs in which I have fleshed ideas out a bit more or have started writing. Thank you for the reminder not to edit.
January 29, 2024 at 11:26 am
Johanna Peyton
I’m still in the notebook stage of storing ideas… but I do tend to write down the inspiration (no matter how random) and it seems to work for me. I have to search manually… but for now it’s doable. I love that you have found a system that works so well for you – thank you for sharing it with us.
January 29, 2024 at 12:17 pm
ransonpatti
I am guilty of the scraps of paper getting lost … wherever!
I like your tracking system using the specific highlights to keep track of my progress:)
January 29, 2024 at 6:11 pm
Megan McNamara
I love the idea of a shared document for Storystorm, and doing it with friends/CPs. I’ll have to remember that for next year!
January 30, 2024 at 3:46 am
Myrna Foster
I actually started a Google Doc earlier this month for Storystorm exercises and advice that I want to come back to later. Thank you for giving me more ways to use that Doc after Storystorm ends.
January 31, 2024 at 2:36 am
amandalittleauthor
I use Google Docs as well, but it ends up like an online junk drawer. I love this system for staying more organized.
January 31, 2024 at 12:13 pm
Carrie Tillotson
What a great system for organizing your ideas!
January 31, 2024 at 7:34 pm
Marlena Leach
Thanks for your tips. I need to organize my ideas much better and elaborate, as well. Sometimes I will write down a thought and find it weeks, months later and wonder what I meant.
January 31, 2024 at 10:14 pm
Susan Cabael
Can’t help but smile as I read your organizational tips while thinking of all the different ways I’ve kept ideas throughout the years. It usually means I go back through old journals and tab the idea pages. I must like the organic messy-ness of my awkward idea collection because I’ve never bothered to get them as organized as yours. Maybe some time in the future.
January 31, 2024 at 10:27 pm
Lisa M. Horn
Thanks, Laurel! Love your ideas for storing and organizing ideas! I love the idea of a journal with pockets! A convenient place that I can store all the little pieces of paper with idea fragments.
February 1, 2024 at 12:20 am
Adrea
I’m always looking at ways to stay organized. Thank you for sharing your process, Laurel!
February 1, 2024 at 1:30 am
ashleydbankhead
Thank you for sharing this post! There were so many ideas on how to store our ideas. I also like when you said you don’t edit yourself, because you never know where an idea will go.
February 1, 2024 at 2:01 am
sylviaichen
Thanks for sharing your process!
February 1, 2024 at 3:17 am
Nazanin Ford
Simple and brilliant idea. I have to try the google doc idea list. Thank you!
February 1, 2024 at 7:58 pm
ponder2write
My unorganized brain needs to reread. I understand finding the right way to organize and locate information. Thank you for the tips.
February 1, 2024 at 8:02 pm
ponder2write
I understand finding the right way to organize and locate information. Thank you for the ideas.
February 2, 2024 at 11:48 am
colleenrkosinski
I like your organizational tips!
February 6, 2024 at 9:48 pm
denitajohnson
Thank you for the suggestion.
February 7, 2024 at 10:29 pm
Hélène Sabourin
Being part of a critique group sounds like it could help in many ways