Start with the reader
A useful note helps someone do their next piece of work. Before you write, think about who will open it and what they need to know. A teammate catching up after lunch needs a different level of detail from someone joining a project for the first time.
Put the main point near the top. If a decision has already been made, say what it is. If you need an answer, ask the question before explaining the background. Nobody should have to read six paragraphs to discover why you shared the note.
Give each section a job
Short headings make a note easier to skim. Use words that describe the information underneath them, such as “Decision” or “What happens next.” Keep each paragraph focused on one thought.
In Tidely, a shared note can hold the full story without making every reader work through all of it. Start with a brief summary, then place supporting detail below. People who need the context can keep reading.
A quick check before sharing
State the main point in the first two lines.
Name the person responsible for each next step.
Remove details that do not change anyone’s next action.
Write like you would explain it
Plain language is not less thoughtful. It simply leaves less room for confusion. Prefer a direct sentence over a long introduction. Replace vague timing with a date when the date matters.
Read the note once from your teammate’s point of view. Do they know what “this” refers to? Can they tell whether a suggestion is a decision? A small clarification now can prevent a whole thread of questions later.
Keep the note useful
A note does not need to stay exactly as you first wrote it. When plans change, update the summary and mark the current decision clearly. Leave enough history to explain why the team changed direction.
You do not need to adopt every habit at once. Try clearer headings on your next note. Then try a shorter opening. Over time, these small choices make your workspace feel quieter, and help good information reach the people who need it.
LH
Leo Hart
Writes about product and process at Tidely.
