7 ways to save information for later (and then actually use it)

How many times do you come across information and think, “Hey, this is great! I need to remember it (or remember to read it)”…and then promptly forget completely about it?

It’s so easy to do!

Fortunately, there are many apps, programs and tools out there to help you systematize how you save information to consume, remember and reference to use later.

Here are seven simple ways that you can start saving information today!

 

Ways to Save Information for Later:

1. In an Evernote folder.

The Evernote Web Clipper makes it I really don’t know how I managed before I started using the Evernote web clipper. If it’s of even remote interest, I clip and save it to read later.

2. Goodreads

Saves the list of books I’ve already read and list of books I want to read.

3. Kindle (or any other eReader) list

I love the ability to create Collections on my Kindle. When I buy new books (all too frequently), I add them to a To Read collection on my Kindle that I can reference when I’m ready for a new book. I also tend to download the newest books to my phone (my primary reading device), so that I always have 10-15 options downloaded and ready. You never know when you’re going to be ready to read and don’t have an internet connection!

4. Feedly

I use Feedly to curate blogs and websites that I know I want to read frequently or at least ensure I don’t miss information from. I also have an IFTT recipe set up to send any Feedly “Saved for Later” items to my Evernote. (Hint: This is a great way to save information for future social media shares or to aid in content creation.)

5. Dropbox

Dropbox is a my workhorse for any actual files that need to be saved, such as PDFs, Word docs, presentations, etc. I have a specific Dropbox folder set up for Training & Education, and for Saved for Later.

6. Podcast Up Next List

I love the ability to save specific podcast episodes to listen to later.

7. A physical to-read shelf

Last, but certainly not least, having designated shelf space for books and papers to read or process is essential to keeping the house from getting cluttered, or those fantastic not-yet-read books from getting lost among old favorites.

“I’ve saved all this information. Now what?!”

Set specific times to review your Saved for Later folders and filter for current information. These don’t need to be super rigid set times, just one of the many routines in your day or week as you have time. This is a great activity to do in the 5-10 minutes of downtime that occurs here and there. You may scan items while you’re drinking your morning coffee, while waiting in line, waiting for meetings to start, etc.

Which one of these saved-for-later ideas can you implement today?