I function almost exclusively on letter-size pads of lined paper. Each pad will cover a different area of my work, and the number of pads will range from two to

I function almost exclusively on letter-size pads of lined paper. Each pad will cover a different area of my work, and the number of pads will range from two to eight depending on how many balls I have in the air. I'll write each TODO item down on the top sheet of a pad, put a check next to the item when it's done, and cross it out when I've confirmed it. Every once in a while I'll tear off the top (scratched-out and scribbled) sheet and rewrite the remaining items. Or, if I'm setting that task aside, I'll enter any undone items into a long-term file (e.g. a bug database, or an Omni Outliner TODO list), tear off and chuck the top page, and put the blank (but reduced) pad back in my supplies drawer. Having to physically write out items feels essential to my thought process. Having to translate thoughts to the motion of pen on paper helps me remember and digest those thoughts. And, handling the pads works for me as a metaphor for juggling projects.