The MacGuvyer version of the commonplace writers’ notebook

I’m going all MacGuyver on you today to tell you about a writer’s tool that you may want when you’re in a situation where you can’t carry a handbag or have limited pocket space. Or maybe you’re floating down the Amazon River or on a camp out with no electricity for charging small electronics.

It’s the Hipster PDA (Parietal Disgorgement Aid). I learned about it from the 43 Folders website and have made Hipster PDAs for students in my writing classes.

Advantages of the Hipster PDA:

1. No battery required.
2. Slim size makes it great for when you’re traveling light.
3. Easy and inexpensive to make.

Here’s how you can make your own Hipster PDA.

First, assemble your parts:

1. A small binder clip.
2. Index cards (3×5 or 4×6 depending on your preference)
3. One rubber band or colored hair scrunchie for extra style (optional)

Directions: Place a small stack of 10 to 12 cards together and add the clip. That’s it.

I like to use a different colored card to separate the used cards from the blank ones. An optional rubber band can be a backup for keeping the index cards together in case your binder clip gets knocked off.

The Hipster PDA is perfect when you need a place to:

Write down ideas for a commonplace notebook. In fact, it can serve as a commonplace notebook.

Note scenes for your novel, memoir, or screenplay. Use one card for each scene. Once you have a collection of scenes, line the cards up on a table or the floor and move them around to see how you like the flow.

See how others, including writers, have used index cards as part of their creative process.

*photo courtesy Wiki Commons