Collect your unfinished tasks and commitments
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The idea in everyday life
Put commitments, ideas, things to follow up, and concerns into one list to review.
Capture is an inbox, not a plan; first collect, then decide.
One step at a time.
Use the sample or information you have permission to use. Keep your work as you go. You can pause between steps.
- 1
Sweep email flags, messages, notes, browser tabs, paper, calendars, downloads, desks, and memory for unfinished or possible work.
- 2
Write each item in plain language without trying to organize during collection.
- 3
Choose one fast capture method for mobile, desktop, and offline moments.
- 4
Set a daily processing point so the inbox does not become a second forgotten list.
See how it works.
Imani sweeps six apps and two notebooks into one temporary queue, then pins a single quick-capture shortcut to the phone.
Did you cover these?
- Your work includes a complete first capture inbox, capture rule, and daily processing appointment.
- Check this common mistake: Creating separate inboxes for every area and spending more time deciding where to capture than recording the thought.
- A new commitment can be captured in seconds and will reach a scheduled decision point without relying on memory.
What to finish
A complete first capture inbox, capture rule, and daily processing appointment.
Watch for this
Creating separate inboxes for every area and spending more time deciding where to capture than recording the thought.
How can I tell I understand it?
A new commitment can be captured in seconds and will reach a scheduled decision point without relying on memory.
Quick knowledge check
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Go to the knowledge checkOptional course overview video
Cal Newport's Planning System
From Cal Newport. Watch here or open it on YouTube .
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