This document defines my personal reading and note-taking format. It is a living document and will be updated as my reading evolves.
0. Scope
This format applies primarily to:
- Technical / professional books
- Research-oriented non-fiction
- Books intended for repeated reference
1. Reading Goal
Before reading, clarify:
- What problem am I trying to solve by reading this book?
- What kind of output do I expect?
(e.g. understanding, reference, framework, decision support)
Do not start reading without a goal.
2. What to Extract
While reading, focus on extracting reusable knowledge, including:
- Core concepts or definitions
- Frameworks or models
- Methods, heuristics, or principles
- Key assumptions the author relies on
Avoid copying large chunks of text. Prefer paraphrasing in my own words.
3. Core Thesis
After a reading session, be able to answer:
- What is the author’s central argument?
- What does the author believe to be true?
- What would be lost if this book did not exist?
If this cannot be stated clearly, the book is not yet understood.
4. Questions and Frictions
Actively note:
- Points I do not understand
- Claims I disagree with
- Ideas that conflict with my existing knowledge
Friction indicates areas worth revisiting.
5. Personal Interpretation
Translate the content into my own thinking:
- How does this change my understanding?
- What decisions might this influence?
- In what situations would this be applicable or inapplicable?
This section matters more than summary.
6. Note Granularity
Notes should be written at appropriate levels:
- Book-level notes: context and thesis
- Concept-level notes: one idea per note
- Method-level notes: steps, conditions, limitations
Prefer smaller, linkable notes over large monolithic ones.
7. Connections
For each book or major idea, consider:
- Related books or papers
- Related existing notes
- Potential future notes to create
Actively create links when possible.
8. Review and Evolution
Periodically revisit this format:
- What feels unnecessary?
- What feels missing?
- What rules do I no longer follow?
Update this document accordingly.