9 Investments for Better Learning

[@odysseas__]

Experience a new way to learn with Imprint. Visit imprintapp.com/Odysseas to get a 7-day free trial and 20% off an annual subscription.

[@marvnch]

The lack of Amazon affiliate link spam in the description gives you a lot of credibility, knowing you're not trying to drive as many sales as possible. Nice video.

[@odysseas__]

I appreciate it, thanks. There's so many choices too, so it makes no sense to link anything.

[@thejoystickguy9]

U should add link dude​@@odysseas__

[@E9819_]

The best sound cancelling headphones you can splurge on. 10 minutes of white noise followed by pure silence and your head will feel infinitely clearer. I felt like I’d discovered the holy grail when I stumbled across this.

[@odysseas__]

That's a nice one because our minds can't be used to all the noise pollution we are normally exposed to

[@francoquispe656]

I live in an avenue, and my family has the biggest desk in the living room, near the TV and my family as we gather there, I bought some big headphones and now I can study with a bit less of noise from the TV, the street or even my family, put my own music or essays from classes. It was, is and will be one of the best purchases of my life.

[@klemenkovacic9109]

it's a kind of ASMR. it's good to fall asleep if your mind is active at all times like mine is. it's equivalent of a parent shhhing a baby to fall asleep. quite literally hahaha

[@WhereisYunoGasai]

@@klemenkovacic9109😂

[@patrickshaw411]

I’ll have to look into this! Is there a pair you would recommend?

[@jim6100]

Your video on managing multiple interests was just what I needed. I am a 78 year old retired computer programmer who has always had the problem of getting involved in too many things. I do not have much time left but I am going to use your techniques. When I retired I was going learn to do woodworking, learn how to play the piano and sew my own clothes and cook. Woodworking went by the wayside quickly. I found that it's harder than I thought and not that interesting. I tried the piano for about six monthes. I even bought a $3000 piano. By the end of six monthes I was stuck. I could play scales and that's about it. A piano teacher told me to go learn this song and come back and we will work on it. I wasn't paying her for that. I am going to use your mathod for playing the piano, cooking and sewing. Jim 👍👍

[@odysseas__]

I'm grateful to hear it Jim, thank you. I know it's not easy, but I feel you have a creative spirit that won't accept staying still for too long and that's what matters. Best of luck to you.

[@nadirox8004]

@@ddwfw please reply to my cmment if he replies to ur question thank youu!

[@benjialexander5850]

@@ddwfw Hello , sorry not the guy you asked but ... I don't think AI will take Frontier IT jobs were there are fresh ideas unseen by the LLM's ,they struggle with creating new ideas but are great at hyperlinking ideas together to create "new ones" , AI as we know it today is like a press that squeezes every last bit of important information from your data , finds links humans haven't seen... Companies that only use AI will progress fast but will flat line companies that use AI + humans will have linear progress for AI will run out or links in data and find itself in an intellectual loop and needs new ideas to link together (from humans).

[@RozMazov]

@@ddwfw I'm not him, and I'm not even in CompSci though I did consider it. I am however in the IT field and also studying IT (Degree + Certs). I wouldn't worry about AI. It was impressive at first with the major leap that was made, but it's become clearer and clearer this is another NFT, crypto, Web 3.0 type of deal. Something big, flashy, seemingly unending in possibility that after taking billions from investors will fizzle or fade into the background. The AI currently writing code is just regurgitating blocks it has scraped from other programmers. It's meant for Language that's why it's a Language Learning Model, it's not meant for large interconnecting projects with a bevy of strange dependencies that come from a long history of very human decisions. We will always need tech people, we are not moving away from tech, and we are not replacing almost anyone with AI as of yet. The only job even close to being lost to AI in my opinion is chat customer service which will still always need people to come in for when things get out of hand (refund authorization, client is being unintelligible, more nuance and context needed to understand the issue). Pick your path, get good at it, find a niche if possible or become a truly wide all rounder, and you should be just fine. I wish I were doing CompSci, but my current situation necessitates something else.

[@ThisIsDLSMade]

Hey there! Idk if I’m really the right person to give advice on piano, but I’ve done music production since I was 12 (turning 30 in a month) and piano has been a very important instrument for that every step of the way, but I never got any actual training. All though over the past few years have spent a bit of time with music theory. The thing about piano is that it really comes down to memorizing scales, and that’s when you learn, getting really good at piano is a time investment thing through and through. That said, I think going through and memorizing scales is boring. But even then as you learn scales you will learn that the keys in the scales are numbered to help with memorization. Same for playing chords in a scale. It all comes down to memorization. I’m gonna suggest a different approach that I think makes learning piano a bit more engaging, and that is looking up your favorite music on KZbin and finding piano tutorials for them. Pay attention to the finger placement they use and do the same. (Proper finger placement is big and can make a difference in the future) Doing this long enough your fingers will become familiar to the patterns, and you will start to almost play without having to pay attention to where each finger goes, because your hands will just start to fall in place. Now take the chords of a song you have learned and try to play them in a different order. All the sudden you have created your OWN song using chords you have remembered from another song (something to realize is that a lot of music has the same chords but in a different order. This is very popular for something like pop music) Now of course the reality of this is that, you aren’t actually learning the name of chords (well it depends. Most piano tutorials will list the chord names) you also aren’t learning what scale you are playing, and this method completely throws sheet music out the window. But imo if your goal is just to be able to play your favorite songs and even create a few of your own this is a way more engaging way! As you learn more of your favorite songs, you will learn the chords, and then you can mix match them to create something new! The alternative is learning scales, memorizing the chords in the scales with their associated numbers, and over time learning what scales work with each other (that’s where the circle of fifths comes in) I think most piano players would kill me for that kind of advice lmao. But if you aren’t engaged in the learning, and it feels like a chore, you aren’t going to stick with it in the end. You can always mix a bit of both together too. This way you can do the dirty work but also be actually learning how to PLAY something! Funny enough I’ve been studying python, IT, and electronics. So it’s a bit like we are on opposite sides of the spectrum here! lol. I’m wishing you the best with your piano!

[@imperatorscratchmataz]

My Recommendation would be to have a large map somewhere in your room or house, where you’ll see it often. It encourages you to stop and inspect it, helping your geography and just prompts you to think about the countries and their histories and the logistics of all their relationships etc. I personally have one opposite my bed so almost every morning I think about it.

[@odysseas__]

That's a great idea, good for reading history or politics too.

[@jmsl_910]

love this!

[@genossinwaabooz4373]

I really enjoyed having the globe printed shower curtain... Living in a camper now, we found an inflatable globe (for pool/beach) but I actually dig it! Just how it is. Interacting with it, can grab it down while read/watch/listening to histories or current events.

[@2KBlockBlind]

yes i have one it is very good idea very smart i approve yes

[@klemenkovacic9109]

absolutely a nice addition to the home! maps are wonderful, personally wouldnt have nothing against digital map, big very thin screen to project map in real time. maybe with a puzzle like guessing the names of countries to memorise better.

[@devlife93]

1. Tiling Window Manager (e.g. Tiles, Rectangle, Aerospace, i3) helps to keep my desktop organized and clutter free. 2. Utilizing Do Not Disturb mode on devices when I want to focus. I usually use it for 2 hours at a time. It's important to take breaks. 3. Documentation for the work I do (I'm a software engineer). Helps to find the gaps in my thinking early on, as well as refresh myself on work I've done in the past. 4. Just start whatever it is you're procrastinating on. Nothing is perfect. Failure is necessary.

[@frisco61]

35” curved wide monitor - so much more productive, it lets you breathe.

[@odysseas__]

It's a great idea, but for some reason they don't sit right with me

[@demonzx6279]

I love my curved 35”. It’s made window management super easy

[@metagorge]

I bought a “35 and regret it. Dual monitors >>> a single wide monitor.

[@amrahmd24]

Agree 💯

[@victorelgersma7845]

Breathe through your nose, not your monitor

[@sacredpunctuation]

I immediately bought a book stand after watching this and you've honestly revolutionized the way I study. I'm obsessssssed with it.

[@bibekmainali9834]

Ordering one right now. Thanks for reinforcing Odysseas' claim.

Separating tools from the smartphone is a good strategy. You’re absolutely right; devices are not neutral tools-they shape behaviors. The smartphone, in particular, leads us to waste a lot of time. I leave mine in another room while I study and work. I also use an old laptop (with Linux) for writing and studying.

[@hn3m3s1s]

What Linux provides that other OS don't, allowing you to focus?

[@GarlicChoppedSlicedDiced-y9t]

I think he used linux because it's an old laptop, not because it makes it easier to focus

@@hn3m3s1s Partly because it allows me to use an old laptop. But with Linux, you can make minimalist installations and customize everything according to your decision. If you use Windows, for example, you'll have an endless amount of unnecessary stuff (at least for studying). The idea is to limit the tools 'at hand' within the system so that you don't get distracted. At least for me, it has helped a lot. Additionally, I associate that device only with studying, nothing else. Best regards.

[@JesusHaveMercy]

Thinkpad gang? 😊

[@Lexusinator]

Love your laid-back and calm style of video making. A true bliss in the landscape of attention-grabbing, fast-paced, hyper-focused videos everywhere.

[@odysseas__]

I'm grateful, thanks. I don't like that stuff either.

[@JMS_Hunter]

I know!!! You are completely right. I hate it when I open a video and some random dude starts yelling at me with annoying noises edited in.

[@Trumpet.nate23]

I bought a whiteboard calendar. To physically see my calendar not online has helped me not forget important events coming up

[@tacticalaria]

never knew those existed.

[@ronumiji]

genius

[@shaileeeliyahu8891]

Enriching video as always! Few notes, as a programmer and a content creator: 1. I have spent more money on my electrical standing desk than on my computer, and I would 100% do it again. Like you said - the health of your back is priceless. 2. I find that the vertical distance between the keyboard and the screen is critical when in comes to posture. The only thing that helped me with neck, shoulders and upper back pain was raising the screens on top of stacks of unused books or copy paper. seems like while your screen is much higher than a laptop, is still not actually at eye level when you sit straight. 3. Buy actual office supply. I'm actually ashamed of the amount of time and effort I've spent, only because I never bought simple stuff like a fair pair of scissors, precision knife, super glue, a ruler, a nice pen, a marker. Sure, you can improvise, but there's nothing like the right tool for the right job. Oh and also - I have 2 monitors + the laptop screen, and I've seen people with 3 and even 4 monitors, but never have I seen a person with too many screens to their computer. You can't understand this bandwidth upgrade unless you've experienced it.

[@odysseas__]

Thank you, and that's a great point with the posture -I see many getting desk shelves or monitor arms to fix it and I can understand why. And yeah the stationary is always a lifesaver when you least expect it

[@DanielBro42]

מבין את העניינים אתה אח יקר

[@c.maciel4828]

I used to stack books under my monitor to make it level correctly. Then I found at amazon this "monitor arm mount", which will help you adjusting your monitor's height very easily.

[@hn3m3s1s]

As a developer as well, I totally agree with you! I've been there as well when I was more junior, but I noticed that some of my peers love to spend (company) money in expensive laptops, while most our job can be done from a Raspberry PI :D -- ok I might exagerate, but I'm sure you understand my point. I used to have 2 monitors and one laptop, and find myself reducing back to one wide-screen and use my laptop clamshelld. A good tiling manager such as i3 or Aerospace (OSX) ; and I got back to much more efficient and focus that I was with Slack and all that sh&t open on second monitors. Split keyboard: moonlander mk1 and vertical mouse from Logi, and my RSI pain went away and finally get back to enjoy spending hours coding. I need to fix that distance from the screen tho, you making a great point!

[@shelleydenison]

Yes to a non-phone alarm clock! I bought a Time Timer a couple of years ago and it has consistently come in handy. Also yes to a laptop stand. I use my laptop and a larger stand-alone monitor as dual screens and getting a stand for my laptop has helped SO MUCH. One thing I'll add: Some of us really are able to relax more and therefore get quicker into a focus state when we've put some effort into making our workspace aesthetically pleasing. I've got my plants, a few framed photos, a warm lamp, and a blue and white color scheme. Setting the "vibes" can definitely be an important thing for some folks.

[@kitebarbie]

I now use three screens, and that was a game changer… especially for research and writing pubs… one screen has all the browser stuff, webpages, etc… the center is writing, and the right is pdfs and other docs that I need to have access to and open. That made things even easier, less clicking and searching for the window you want up front. It’s become like a digital desk-with an area for stuff I may need to go back to, ref lists to just have open, just made things somehow exponentially easier than just two.

[@fxfxrki]

I always thought 3 monitors were overkill, but once you get used to it and every monitor has a purpose, you can work so much faster. Best investment, never looked back.

[@hn3m3s1s]

​@@fxfxrki I've been also increasing the amount of screens over the years at work (I'm a developer) and weirdly those last years ended up reducing it back to one wide-screen. While it seems to help to be more structured, I realized that it was just creating more noise ; it was better for me to invest in structuring my workspace better with tools like a tiling manager such as i3 on Linux or Aerospace on OSX.

[@fxfxrki]

@@hn3m3s1s I totally get where you're coming from! I've heard many people say that they find one ultrawide just as (if not more) effective. My personal preference is 3, I think it looks really dope. Cool to see how different people use different setups for sure.

[@ghost-user559]

One horizontal (center) and one vertical (right) does a lot of the same but using less space. Having a vertical monitor is absolutely a game changer. Reading PDFs, mobile sites, browsing newsfeeds, and writing makes a vertical monitor essential.

[@hn3m3s1s]

@@ghost-user559 but that would mean that reading long pdfs or articles would not be front of you, that might not be best for ergonomics, and neck pains. How does it feel to you? May I also ask your age?

[@abdul_muhsin97]

I love how your content goes straight to the point.

[@padmeasmr]

Having a stand for my pc and buying a mechanical keyboard with soft wrist rest pillows + having part of my desk inclinable, has been a game changer for me. The only problem is that I love working outside in cafés or library where its hard to bring this stuff. Working at home makes me a bit depressed and I feel lonely, so I try to mix up the two.

[@hello838]

Watching this has motivated me to tidy my desk and change my seating position. The things that improved my productivity is replacing my cheap mechanical keyboard to Logitech MX Master Keys. I realised that chunky keys aren't for me and I preferred a laptop-style keyboard. Buying expensive items can definitely improve productivity. The better the quality, the better experience you will have.

[@user-ayush818]

You are the reason i still like youtube,very quality content.

[@odysseas__]

Thanks, I appreciate this

[@marceloboemeke]

What I love about your content is that it's 100% bullshit free. Every tip you ever gave us here have actually worked for me. The book stand, the mini essays as a tool for learning, all life changers.

[@D_Ghost-e8c]

Small, beautiful and practical enough. Love it. With age you realise small is big. Less is more and time is ultimate resource we have.

[@YJS_0]

I have been using a whiteboard since a couple weeks and I can confidently say that I'm absolutely loving it! I use it every day for strategizing as well as explaning new concepts to myself for my learning.

[@dimitrisanastopoulos8957]

Ευχαριστώ για την βοήθεια άρχισα τώρα τις σπουδές μου και την βρήκα άσχημα. Το βίντεο σου μου έδωσε καλές ιδέες. Να σαι καλά

[@astragalaxia9228]

Thank you for this video! I just started college and I have been having trouble on focusing and taking notes. I never stay long at my desk that I bought from walmart, it just feels crampt. I usually would move to my kitchen table to work, but it lowers my motivation. A standing desk is something I honestly didn't know existed. I totally agree with you on "you buy it once, you cry once.". I took a leap and bought the desk. I checked the dimensions, so i got to the desk surface is larger than my current desk. Again thank you so much for providing me with motivation and teaching me of things I didn't know existed!

[@odysseas__]

Much appreciated, and I hope it treats you well!

[@abhisekbanerjee425]

1:56 the coffee mug

[@FoeHammerTime]

I intended to get a second monitor, but accidentally ended up with a 34" curved ultrawide through seller error (they told me to keep it). I am so glad. It's so much nicer than having two separate screens. Works great for me.

[@IRON-MAN._.827]

the way this guy talks. god bless you man

[@odysseas__]

Cheers man, God bless you too.

[@ExterminatorElite]

Honestly, a great investment is a tutor. It depends on the subject as some may be more expensive than others, but they often have free initial consultations where you can get a feel for them. Occasionally getting a tutor who can explain "the why" behind certain concepts can facilitate much deeper understanding on a challenging subject much quicker than would be possible without them.

[@sir_albaxious1909]

Trust me, having a desk that gives the impression that a polymath has learned recently on that desk (which isn't the case), will give enough motivation for me to start studying. All it takes is to sit on that chair and boom, you start studying.

[@odysseas__]

Very true, gets you into that frame of mind fast

[@spicyempanadas2738]

While I totally agree with the large monitor point (the amount of time i've strained through law cases on my laptop), I find the laptop alone is useful for when I need to avoid distractions. It's far harder to multitask when you don't have access to extra space.

[@fullderp5419]

while i have two screens, i totally get your point. i think it can really depend on the tasks you do or the software that you use. if you dont need to switch around alot, a single screen is less distracting.

[@Azzoo_0]

Yes two screens is definitely distracting for me. It helps me to focus when there are less screens.

[@jakefromstatefarm11]

In my opinon one of the best things you can do to help with anything in room or office is atmosphere. From lighting to paint the effect a good atmosphere can have on the way you feel and the work you produce is insane.

[@odysseas__]

True, lighting is a huge one

[@LearningandTechnology]

Solid List - you captured some of my absolute favourites: whiteboard, bookstand, standing desk… really all of your suggestions. To answer your question - I would add a dedicated timer (for pomodoros if you use the technique), some stationary choices (you have them in your organizer: coloured pens, flags), etc. Basically, just simple variations on your excellent choices.

[@odysseas__]

Thanks, and those timers look good, I see them a lot on ads

[@LearningandTechnology]

@@odysseas__ they are useful. A challenge amongst the curious is focus. I find that if I have multiple areas I want to study at once, I can time each of them - allowing me to focus on one at a time. Which possibly is a self-diagnosis of ADHD - bit timers do help.

[@AbhinandRajNeeriganti]

Consider getting a larger water bottle to keep nearby while you work. It helps you stay hydrated without disrupting your focus by needing to get up for water. Since people are more likely to use things that are within easy reach, it’s a double win.

[@thamammubaris4000]

works different for different people. I like to get up from time to time to hydrate thereby it avoids me from sitting for long periods. also gets in some physical activity

[@paridhi4829]

I love how relatable your videos are and I love getting new ideas. one more suggestion I have hoping to see was noise cancellation headphones like not the music kind , no electricity just noise cancelation. there are fancier ones out there nowadays but I got ear muffs for 25$ and they have been a blessing especially if you live in a busy area or have noise sensitivity

[@odysseas__]

Thanks, and I was thinking about this the other day. It's crazy how much ambient noise pollution we deal with on the daily, which I bet our minds are not suited for.

[@arturo_lopez_rojas]

I'm 47, and I had never thought about my health in relation to working while sitting. And you're absolutely right. I think, to start, I'll work at certain times at the kitchen counter until I get myself an adjustable desk. Thanks for all these tips.

[@odysseas__]

Much appreciated, and I used to do that too. It's the sort of thing you don't realise has an effect on you until something goes wrong and you get the wake up call.

[@booksnphilosophy]

A book stand on the kitchen table was a gamechanger for my studies.

[@willcarmichie698]

On the note of the desk organizer: when looking for additions to office spaces, it is probably very useful to look back to what items were used and popular before the current era of hyper-consumerism really took off. Desk organizers have been around for decades, even centuries or millennia depending on your definition, so like pen and paper, they’re always going to be more useful than the latest tech gadget.

[@odysseas__]

Very good point, I like that. We've forgotten many of them too, so it's worth a look.

[@verquachstoal6833]

This was the first real video I’ve seen in a while, thank you mate

[@odysseas__]

Much appreciated, thanks

[@funkierblum]

You should get a more ergonomic mouse and invest on a custom mechanical keyboard. They might seem “just for gamers” but the quality of life they provide are unmatched. The comfort a keyboard tailored to your liking helps with making you want to use it more and therefore spending more time being productive. The mouse just feels right and you never wanna go back to an office mouse after an ergonomic one, your wrist and hand appreciate it.

[@odysseas__]

Will do, I'll make the switch soon enough

[@connorclarke5463]

I second the ergonomic mouse. For anyone looking, Logitech makes good (non-gamer) ones that are affordable.

[@hn3m3s1s]

@@odysseas__ I back up our friend here. I've been working for some years now after career shifting, a good mouse and good keyboard reduces highly the effort put on your wrist, fingers, etc. On the short term it might feel like a useless expense, but if you spend a lot of time behind a computer please do take equipment made for ergonomy: vertical mouse and split keyboards.

[@Jake-go2lq]

@@odysseas__Having spent 100s of pounds searching for the most ergonomic the best I have found is the Lenovo trackpoint keyboard with the built in red pointer. Tired ball mouses even bought a drawing tablet so I could use a pen as the mouse. Best is the red dot mouse.

[@odysseas__]

@@hn3m3s1s Will do, thanks.

[@paullyashenko1201]

nice to see people thinking in the same way. we have a match on this topic 6 out of 8 statements. thank you for the video! it was a pleasure to watch

[@SupportSquirrel]

if you are doing a standing/adjustable desk then get some sort of foam/cushioning floormat. to make standing more comfortable

[@Hatsha12]

Thank you very much for your recommendations. I always will recommend to buy a good ergonomic chair, not a gaming one (and besides that, 'cause its the best for improve your learning: sleep, so then a good mattress and pillow)

[@frickincookies2568]

the one thing that changed me was a basic, dollar store A5 planner. i already have a google calendar for appointments and collaboration with other people, but something about a personal space for daily to do lists, reminders, etc. that i can take with me anywhere makes keeping track of things so much easier

[@odysseas__]

Simple and effective

[@najamgohar7547]

adjustable wooden book stand, desk organiser, more n more notebooks and pens, 2nd monitor, laptop stand, whiteboard, wireless keyboard and mouse,

[@52Drew]

I find your videos on reading and note-taking incredibly interesting, and I will definitely be integrating your methods into my active learning journey. After using a dual monitor setup, I was fortunate to purchase a good second-hand 34” monitor, which has been a game-changer for both convenience and productivity. I’m never going back to two monitors! Thank you so much for your time and for presenting such wonderful, insightful videos.”

[@drxyz512]

Love the video, recently I’ve been watching a lot of desk setup vids but they usually end up being too tech heavy for me. Your list feels a lot more grounded and I’ll definitely be getting a couple of your recommendations.

[@odysseas__]

Thanks, I really appreciate it. It's easy for tech to become a distraction after all.

[@bint..alarabiyyah]

thank you for this, I really enjoyed this video thanks for not including any music

[@odysseas__]

I appreciate it, thank you

[@fiddycaliber947]

I fitted 2 large pegboards in my office to tidy all charging cables and bits & bobs off the worktops. So much better and Its really easy to find things too!

[@odysseas__]

Good choices, I need to improve my cable management myself

[@ryanbartlett672]

Second monitor is mandatory. 4k tt Vs are $400. Split keyboard with tilt is your next big eye opener.

[@ghost-user559]

Secondary vertical is the way to go.

[@Romy037]

your content has been an integral influence recently on how i deal high-school and lifestyle thank you

[@odysseas__]

Grateful to hear this, thank you

[@Nomad-n8b]

I've finished binge watching all your videos and I love the kind of vibe you exude. It's so calm and refreshing. Btw I got something to ask you. Do you take notes for every video, article and book that you consume? And how do you take notes for the video type of contents? I mean do you take notes as you watch them or first watch the whole video at the stretch and then take notes from your memory (like active recalling)?

[@folkishappalachian6827]

I am actually not the greatest with explaining my thoughts, so I showed this video to my wife to explain why I like to keep the house mostly clean, not perfect, why I use wide open spaces where I work, and why I lay out my work over my entire desk. I always felt all those things expanded my mind but could never explained how. This video helped me explained why its important to me to her, so, thank you! She may use some of the techniques as well, mainly the smart features!

[@odysseas__]

I'm grateful to hear it, thank you. Glad it made sense.

[@Belsen85]

Thank you very much for the one particular piece of advice: the desk organizer. It is really useful thing! Have ordered one as soon as I watch the video.

[@odysseas__]

Love to hear it, hope it does the job right

[@leminj]

This is genuinely the best video I’ve watched in about a year! I’m taking action on every suggestion!

[@odysseas__]

Real grateful to hear it, thanks. Best of luck finding some good ones too.

[@user-ub9on4ww1v]

thanks for sharing!

[@odysseas__]

Much appreciated

[@aforeverman30]

Double screens definitely helped and a good chair, it's the most expensive thing I own but well through the investment.

[@Disconcertedfox]

I want to STRONGLY cosign the home notebooks idea. I normally carry around a notebook that is my daily capture of everything from notes to work to ideas, which I then off load into my second brain on obsidian at the end of the notebooks live. The problem is when I get home - I still need the functionality of a capture notebook but it never occurred to me to keep one everywhere. Up until two days ago, I had sticky notes and pens and pencils everywhere but the sticky notes would then be everywhere from my wall to my fridge and it caused so visual clutter that while I was doing my daily life edit, it occurred to me that I could just keep a notebook in each room for the same purpose. Now I have one in the living room, the kitchen, the bathroom, and even at my desk. I’m very much a scribble my thoughts as soon as I get them kind of person and bounding that info in a notebook instead of using sticky notes everywhere has been life changing. I highly highly recommend. We must be on the same wavelength or something because even though I’m watching this video now, this occurred to me a couple days ago.

[@odysseas__]

That's great stuff, especially if you have a system for sorting them out consistently

[@mazhadsyahmi3664]

i rarely comment on youtube but this is mybe not the best vidoe o ever watch but this is most important and i need in youtube

[@odysseas__]

Thank you

[@hridd1]

I use a color adjustable reading lamp. It has been wonderful for reducing eye strain and fatigue.

[@wingman4759]

6:49 I didn't even know that was a thing! Oh my god, I'm so glad I clicked on this video now! Thank you! I'm about to buy one of those book stands right now. 😏🙏

[@odysseas__]

Nice, hope it serves you well

[@ZakariaBoualaid]

I strongly recommend a curved ultra wide screen monitor if you really want a breathing space in your workspace. Because even having the main monitor in front of you and the secondary one on the side, sometimes you might find yourself doing something on the side more often than you would have anticipated, and that will give you the neck strain you are running from. So fixing the problem from the root is better than assuming that you will behave properly. Ultra wide screen is in front of you, and you can use your operating system capability to divide your screen in any way you want. Also there are no gaps between what you are seeing, not even the monitor edges.

[@odysseas__]

That's a fair point, but when it's so easy to move tabs over I can't see that being an issue

[@ZakariaBoualaid]

@@odysseas__ Sometimes we are not aware of the issues until we try something better. I had your setup in the past and thought it was fine until it wasn't. Good luck!

[@odysseas__]

@@ZakariaBoualaid Thanks, and to you too

[@sazevedo1626]

My favourite item has been the hipster PDA, a.k.a. a bunch of cue cards with a bulldog clip. Fits in a pocket, purse or wallet; it's not expensive but it's sturdy, so you never feel bad about ruining some, and always have them on hand.

[@ana-fc5lq]

what do you use them for? i just need an example i thought of buying them but cant decide for what i would use them

[@Howling_Ghosts]

​@@ana-fc5lq personally speaking i use it for maths/physics but you can use them for anything really , shopping lists , ideas, quotes just try and find what works for you

[@sazevedo1626]

@@ana-fc5lq So I used them like an impromptu sturdy pocket notebook. I'll keep anything on them, from grocery lists, to ideas I've picked up, or snippets of conversation I like, etc. If I have a dr's appointment I'll load one up with my medications list, that sort of thing. It's just easy to pick up and always have on hand.

[@carlosreyesf19]

4:30 another effective alarm clock is an old smartphone, with no SIM card, no Wifi, no nothing. Just existing to be used as an alarm. And this way, the battery can even last a week without charging it haha So you can leave your normal phone at the living room or wherever you want but outside of your bedroom, and only have your old phone at a bedside table.

[@cbbcbb6803]

Sometimes you have no choice but to start out cheap. Then gradually upgrade as your financial state improves. The two things that worked the best for me were a reasonably good desk and a book stand.

[@odysseas__]

Exactly, that way you know you need it and it's not an excuse for overconsumption

[@fede9328]

Loved your video, i also tried and failed many times in trying to find the best way to focus when i had to study and transcription is one of the best. I believe also that you should have something that can maintain you hydrated/and with energy while studying (tea,matecocido,mate,coffee,water)

[@saahilnair5369]

absolutely love to see a bioneer cameo

[@odysseas__]

Great guy

[@guesswhatilearnedtoday1087]

Thanks for this video. You have inspired me to look into ways to clean and organize my space.

[@wibutterfly8352]

I read a lot from my ereader and I bought myself a phone stand to put my ereader and it is amazing! I also own and really love the book stand, for when I am reading! I also found that having a "study routine" helps me, and for me it is a warm drink (tea or coffee) and putting on a good smelling candle. I feel like having one smell that puts you into studying is great. Then I also loved investing in the app forest, i get distracted by my phone quite often so I bought the premium version of forest. And I am really glad I did! Buying a subscription to Spotify was also very useful because I no longer get distracted by adds

[@krishrong2560]

Thank you so much for such many ideas! I got a lot from you. For me, 10" E-ink E-reader provides me a huge benefit for reading a lot of knowledge esp. from textbook without eye strain.

[@Daneca]

I no longer spend time watching recommendation vids here on youtube due to reasons which you’ve coincidentally mentioned here, but i had a feeling this video was gonna be good. and i was right. i genuinely feel like almost everything in this list would work well for me. Im gonna give these things a try one by one. thank you so much!

[@odysseas__]

Thanks! Hope they serve you just as well

[@tatan1994]

I really boosted my productivity writting my chores to do in a large whiteboard. The sensation of crossing out a complete task is something and app can not accomplish. I felt so much cooler, that I ended up buying 3 whiteboards hehehe

[@tuomi1154]

1. Good lighting 2. A separate mouse and keyboard along with the laptop stand. 3. A visible schedule/to do list for the study session.

[@fabiejohnmarkninoc.5217]

Dedicated calculator. It helped me more than I could realize as to im only using the calculator itself for doing projects instead of my phone thats one swipe away from distractions.

[@Mikebremnr]

Kinda basic but getting an iPad before I started uni was a game changer. Working on anything is so much easier and more convenient. For my desk, an extra monitor is my biggest helper as well as a good desk lamp

[@tomhassomethoughts]

The desk organizer is a good idea, but I'll go one better: those cheap plastic Chinese food containers you get at the dollar store (or grocery stores have them now). It's like a junk drawer on top of your desk where you can throw all kinds of random do-dads that might not fit into a formal organizer. I throw notepads, pens, thumb drives, SD cards (in case), and any number of adaptors and dongles into it. They're also great for general organizing - - it's the perfect size to hold a specific kind of usb cord (or chargers) or little hobby bits or fancy pens and pencils for art or anything else. They stack pretty well on shelves and fit in drawers easily.

[@odysseas__]

Nice, and even better if you label them so everything is easy to get to

[@tomhassomethoughts]

@@odysseas__ yep - - I'll include a picture of my drawer when I do my video on it. The only difference between an organized person and the rest of us is knowing where you keep your stuff.

[@odysseas__]

@@tomhassomethoughts Nice, looking forward to it

[@SaintDLR]

I like a physical calendar instead of an app, really helps me see at a glance what I have in store for the month. Also ambience, whether through candles or lamps I like making my room feel as comfortable as possible to get in the zone.

[@odysseas__]

True, it's nice to move away from apps sometimes. I also overlooked lighting completely so it's good you mention this.

[@internationalpulse]

Thanks for the tip. As a PhD scholar, this was helpful! Cheers mate

[@odysseas__]

Love to hear it, much appreciated

[@mikmik.gaming]

I have my own color-coded highlighting system when reading law books and codal provisions. I have printed planner and 2 apps for planner and to-dos. I use time-blocking in scheduling the tasks and events I have to do on that day but I’m not very strict with the time for now. It helps me to know how many tasks and events I can do and attend to in a day. As much as possible, I sleep early and exercise. I also use a book stand and notebooks.

[@Dreamer105-6]

Regarding the second monitor, i HIGHLY recommend buying a 4k 32" monitor, it makes lifes so much easier because its quite large and you can put multiple windows on it that are normal-monitor sized

[@odysseas__]

I agree but it needs a big desk to go with it I think.

[@Dreamer105-6]

@@odysseas__ Yeah, its a hefty item but if you buy a desk for life and work with computers, i can assure you it is worth it(speaking as a software dev wtih 12+ hrs of screen time a day). 2 years ago I bought the cheapest one that i could find and i spent around 300 euros for it, and ever since a regular monitor has felt small, cramped and lacking.

[@Yousf999]

@@odysseas__ how much inch is your screen

[@odysseas__]

@@Yousf999 24"

[@flame_of_the_west8909]

Odysseas you gather some good ideas in this videos. Somehow these are thoughts that I used to have in my mind but never talk about them. I also read some of the comments in the comment section sharing their ideas, that too resonated with me. That is a very good video and comment section. I subed and liked almost immediately.

[@WyvernDotRed]

5:24 For this, I greatly prefer a wake-up light over a standard alarm. This as it wakes me up more gently, but also more thoroughly, making me ready to hop out of bed. To then get to sunlight or at least turn on the lamps as soon as possible, as this helps a lot with waking up. 6:44 A book stand is very useful, but since I read most texts digitally, for me adding more monitors to my setup works. Though I would love to add an e-Ink monitor in that position, which actually looks like paper. My phone already is an e-Ink phone, it's great and also helps a bit with not scrolling too much, but larger dedicated screens get too expensive for me. 7:45 Well there's something I would benefit from, I should definitely pick up a desk organiser soon. Currently most my stuff is either in my etui (pen bag), on the second desk surface of the mistake I am sitting behind now or scattered over the main surface. I generally don't have a problem with clutter though, once I get to focus on the work, I can keep going pretty much anywhere, as long as the clutter doesn't get in the way of finding stuff I need. 9:14 Well there's another rather interesting suggestion. After writing the note down, I'll probably remember that it's in one of the notebooks, which is easier to find than remembering the thing again. As I greatly prefer writing with fountain pens, that would get a bit crazy, but still manageable with the okay €5 HEMA pens that last forever. 9:35 I mentioned it already, this is dead obvious to me. But also learn to use virtual desktops (or whatever the Windows terminology is) on the PC too. This I struggle with using properly, maybe a tiling windows plug-in will force me to do this more down the line (I'm on KDE Plasma, currently version 6.1). I've been using Linux exclusively for 6 years, which is harder to learn but lets me tweak the system's look and feel to my liking, which makes me like just using the PC. Another amazing thing I do use adequately is the overview screen, which spreads out all open windows over the screen, with ample space between them, letting me find my bearings and pick up again. Weirdly enough though, my younger brother doesn't use the second screen I got him at all, leaving it turned off all the time. Not sure if this is a personal difference, or him not knowing what to do with it. 11:59 For at home I use a cheap laptop stand which I can place on the couch or outside lounge to sit comfortably while using the thing. But I also have a full desktop setup with larger screens for getting things done quicker. This setup has the monitors on a raised 3rd surface I built myself, initially to try to find a permanent place for my drawing tablet but I kept it as I prefer the monitor position. With this setup I can get in a good flow-state when doing programming or other IT heavy work. 13:28 The computer heavy approach shines here again, but both on my desktop and laptop I like to take notes and visualise stuff in art software (Krita to be exact). I use precisely those kinds of visualisations to draw connections between the information, even while taking notes in class. For this I always carry a small drawing tablet around on campus, as I greatly prefer looking at the screen over hunching over a piece of paper. And I'm comfortable enough with the software to just use it without it getting in the way too much, though my portable tabled is a bit problematic and due for an upgrade. The almost 20 year old tablet at my desktop is perfect though and never gets in the way, but it's too heavy to carry around. Thank you for making this video. Your had some good suggestions, some of which I should apply, others I already do in my own way. The biggest help in learning for me is those drawing tablets and learning the art software for taking notes with. Along with having multiple monitors, which really helps with keeping something relevant or fun to the side.

[@fullderp5419]

Awesome, I totally agree with all these tips. I actually have made the exact same conclusions on my own over the last decade. Glad to see others have made the same conclusions. as i dont have a good place for a large whiteboard, i only have a small witeboard notebook, which is a good place to take fast notes and sketches without wasting tones of paper. only upgrade i also did was a small side table for drinks and snacks etc. to avoid me knocking over my drinks over my desk. and i agree, less is more when getting stuff for hobbies. not promoting minimalism, but just thoughtful purchases. i often ended up in this consumerist urge to buy stuff, but then never really using it. so i remind myself of that. so before i buy i stuff, i first make sure to do the thing / hobby before and only really buying it out of a clear immediate need and not a need for optimizing a task that i have not done yet.

[@klemenkovacic9109]

tbh the only thing i can agree that helps someone as me, is whiteboard. having the ability to write by hand, visualise something off of a device is magnificent. i dont watch calander or anything but white board is always there. the only case i have for lets say previously mentioned calander is putting in the dates i must not or would not like to forget and would like someone to remind me of the upcoming events. thats it.

[@skaus2184]

I'm starting a degree in a few weeks, and have just purchased a 140cm standing desk, and 34" widescreen monitor. I still need to find a decent chair that I like. RAM and m.2 drives to upgrade my desktop and laptop. I've got a space on my wall for a large blackboard, which will be going up soon. I've also been decluttering, cleaning, and organising my living space too. It's surprising just how refreshing, and 'lighter' I feel in a minimalist space. I like the idea of a book stand, so I'll look to pick one up.

[@odysseas__]

Love to hear it, especially since you started early

[@ТаисияСулейманова]

Maybe by the end of the day I'm being emotionally generous, but your monologue about how absurdly digitalized everything is nowadays gave me a good laugh. Thank you for that. Somehow your jokes and emotional interludes make me feel a bit more comfortable. These moments help me understand that being an educated person means also being alive - not a fact-absorbing statue. I hope this confession wasn't offensive!! Thanks again

[@odysseas__]

I appreciate it, thanks. I still find it hard to be loose on camera, but I suppose it comes with time and practice.

[@harrysibben7583]

I currently use 3 screens in total. My 2017 iMac 27inch 5K with 2x 27 inch thunderbolt screens. And I love it. So much real estate for apps. If I need to be reminded, I leave the app open. Like you said, best screen in front of you. Maybe a bit overkill but it surely looks good lol.

[@valegory]

Of note, if you're in the US used alarm clocks can usually be found at Goodwill for $3 or below.

[@odysseas__]

And there's those cheap fridge timers/alarms which are also good

[@CherylsCreativeWorld33]

Excellent video. I have a standing desk - I agree, it’s the best desk I have ever had, and the laptop stand. I think they’ve both been very helpful in my office. I stick a notebook and pen in my back pocket, saves me putting loads around the house:) excellent video, clear, concise with great audio. Thank you!

[@odysseas__]

Thank you, and the notebook is smart, especially out and about

[@xevilman1]

I really like your no BS videos. Keep up the great work!

[@odysseas__]

Thank you!

[@kristinmorey4921]

I immediately straightened my desk after watching this. Thank you for the reminder. I feel like I can breathe now.

[@odysseas__]

Good stuff, thank you

[@varc1513]

Im graduating in electronics and robotics in my first year I used ti do everything in my computer desk from micro soldering to cutting cables but I would find myself distracting myself and watch KZbin, after a while I bought a dedicated table for building electronic devices and studying them and where I would usually take 2-3 night to finish the smallest projects now it takes me 1 night or maybe 2 if it requires printing objects all of it due to not working in my pc desk, buying and exclusive desk for it was the best purchase I made so far

[@seagata]

I recommend after getting a laptop stand is obviously buy a set of wireless keyboard and mouse, especially the silent one if you want to focus and dont want to get distracted by the noise.

[@odysseas__]

Good choices

[@marcustulliuscicero9512]

Instead of a desk organizer I have a small one for my sticky notes, highlighters, and tabs that attaches to the front of my books (works best with hardbacks though) so anywhere I go I have everything I need with me and never have to stop and hunt down what I need.

[@jmsl_910]

consistently well thought out & valuable content ty

[@odysseas__]

Thanks, I really appreciate it

[@huonglan15168]

i'm so grateful to watch your video, keep going bro 😍😍😍

[@odysseas__]

Much appreciated, thank you

[@melihkarakaya79]

11:11 I experienced with stacked monitor stand and it's way better than a center+side set up, it makes them both centered and monitor at the top is easier to see and get visual info.

[@odysseas__]

I was thinking that yeah. Does it not feel uncomfortable to look up?

[@OldTomato44]

As an alternative to the whiteboard: I like mind-mapping in large sketchbooks, because then I can go back and reference them all later.

[@odysseas__]

Nice one, I have a3 paper for that and it works a charm

[@ShirleiBarnes]

I like this 😊 I can relate to several of your tips. One change I’ve done in my learning space is to use an infinite canvas to take notes. I still use paper, but the digital helps me to add to it anytime, anywhere. I like the white board tip 👍🏽, because it fits to this easily.

[@ConnorHopson]

Instead of having a monitor and whiteboard, I like to use the wall in front of my desk. Sort of like a vision board, but utilized for tracking projects. I create three columns with two lines of tape to separate the top 3 priorities in my life. Right now, it’s (left) obligation projects, (middle) my script, and (right) personal goals. If I had a monitor, I would have to give that up because I agree with having the main display directly in front of you. As much as I would love to have a whiteboard, I find myself losing track of thoughts when I get up to observe a new canvas. Plus, there’s a sort of commitment to whatever you begin writing on there, because to free up space for new thoughts you’ll have to erase what you have. I do have the large sticky papers similar to what you suggested as an alternative for the whiteboard, but I find myself ripping these off the wall more often than not. Now that I’m writing this, maybe a white board would be helpful for grasping bigger concepts in the moment. Then once it’s locked into mind maybe erase everything. I hate sitting in my room and seeing a massive display of what I’ve been working on when I’m just trying to relax (if only I had an office, but such is the life of poor college students). Anywho, I’m not expecting a response or anything, but I really appreciated your insight and thought I’d share.

[@odysseas__]

That's a nice idea with a feeling of progression behind it. The only issue with a whiteboard I find is that I am hesitant to wipe it all out sometimes if I like the notes I've made. Has to be done though.

[@ghost-user559]

I find the middle ground is the full size cork board with pins. It’s actually much better than a whiteboard only because you get to keep and store whatever cue cards or paper notes once you are done, no erasing. And using a folder system you can switch projects and workflows by going back to an old set of notes and cue cards later because nothing ever gets erased. It also is more tactile to pin up hand written notes, and it gives you lots of flexibility because you can print out more permanent things like calendars or ongoing notes pinned to the edges, and then you can have more temporary short term plans in the middle. Best case would be a smaller cork board or whiteboard and a larger primary one depending on which you prefer.

[@girlyvoice3210]

Here's a counter intuitive one: a silnylon tarp around 1.5x2.5m. With this you can pitch a wind breaker and read in the park

[@odysseas__]

I love unique ones like this.

[@girlyvoice3210]

@@odysseas__ I spent two years effectively homeless, so discoveries like this were a life changer. Having no shelter creates dozens of daily annoyances and you have to come up with solutions, it has been a strangely creative period!

[@GSPRKY]

Id add a desk fan