this week, i took paper notes a programming class. An acquaintance saw it, and said, “i don’t remember what the last time I took paper notes”. everyone in that class room was using their laptops. in fact, that was the far majority of classes i took.

it makes sense. from a technical perspective, computers is an upgrade.

yet computers have a flaw:

it’s not focused environment.

beyond studying, you can chat with friends, play video games, and develop a new project. through one keyboard shortcut, you can jump place to place: basically frictionless!

as a resulted, i ended often being distracted. one, “i am bored, and i am wondering if there are new messages in discord” and poof. i just spend 5 minutes reading messages i don’t care about. i can split my screen into youtube and homework. by trying to do everything, digital technology end up overwhelming users.

it’s not same when there is only a notebook in front of you.

other reasons

• my primary note taking style with a combination of bullet points and mind maps. i also draw too. i don’t have ipad to do visual notes, and the wacom tablet that I do have is bulky.

• if i use the computer too long, I get eye strain. hell, i have eyestrain right now

• the stationery world is fun. i get to explore all the mechanical pencils, paper, and accessories. if you are into aesthetics like I am, there are so many options. it’s like building armory of tools for studying!

• i could write offline or when my laptop is dead.

last modified on 2026年07月06日