Ask HN: Where do you keep your ideas?

I studied architecture (of the physical buildings kind), so I may be biased (its reasonably common practice to do this sort of thing), but I completely agree.

Whilst some things are fine to write on paper or in a web app etc, I think generally writing on paper still has a bunch of advantages because you simply have far more control as to what you are doing (emphasis, location, style, adding sketches, etc.) - people just tend to be afraid of it for some reason.

My set up is generally a small notebook (approx. passport sized, not too thick, stiched rather than ringbound) so it can fit into my pocket easily, along with a simple pen (0.4 felt tip). I like this because I can carry them around with me for use when the occasion arises (eg. lunch break, waiting for a train, at a cafe, etc.). Other people I know prefer big notebooks (carried in bags back and forth from the office) - depends on your routine and personality I guess.

Expensive ones (like Moleskine) aren't really any better than some of the cheap ones for my purpose, as long as the binding is solid and the paper is of reasonable quality.

Also, I agree that light dots (or light grids) are the way to go.

I use workflowy primarily.. Basically what helps is anything that you can always have quick access to.. Like I use workflowy on my android mobile coz I can scribble on it anytime.. on bus.. while in class.. while jogging..

Paper or plain text files. If neither is available, then I email myself using my phone.

Paper is the best option because of the limitless possibilities. I can use pencil, pen, color pencil, watercolor, scotch tape bits of junk to it, rip it out, fold it up, and burn it.

Notes file on my phone. I need backups! :)

Google Drive.