Create Focus with “Open in New Window” Feature
Sept 23 2024 | Issue 10 | Link to this issue | Subscribe
Hi Reader –
Getting distracted by too many open tabs and cluttered screens is common for knowledge workers. That’s why I love this Evernote “power user” feature — opening your notes in their own window — that helps you to focus and work more efficiently.
Many people are used to working with Evernote notes in the right side panel. But did you know you can also work with the note in its own window? This small change can make a big difference in how you manage your tasks and projects.
It’s quickly become one of my top productivity tips for working more efficiently in Evernote. Here’s a brief look at how it works in the desktop app.
An important note before we get started: This feature is only available on the desktop app (not on web or mobile). This is a huge reason to use Evernote’s desktop client! Download the free desktop app here.
And, if you're a free user, you’ll need to select the desktop app as your Evernote client of choice (you only get access on one client as a free user). Better yet, upgrade to a Personal plan (save 15% on the annual plan with my link) to unlock Evernote access on multiple devices.
Why Separate Windows Matter in Evernote
Working with notes in their own window can have a big impact on how you manage your tasks and projects. It creates focus and eliminates distractions so you can give your attention to one note at a time. This approach helps you stay on track and ensures that you’re making the most of your time.
When handling multiple projects, having the ability to open notes in separate windows allows you to manage your work more effectively. No more switching tabs or losing track of your progress—everything you need is right where you want it. At the end of this email you’ll hear from a few of my Academy members on how they like to use the separate window feature in their own workflows!
This feature streamlines your workflow and enhances your overall productivity. By working from a dedicated window, you can accomplish more work with less stress, making your day smoother and more efficient.
How to open notes in a separate window
Ready to try it out? Here are 4 different options to open a notes in its own window in the desktop client:
From the More (...) menu, select "Open in New Window"
Right-click on a note in your shortcuts or from the note list and choose "Open in New Window"
Double-click on a note in the note list or shortcut menu
[BRAND NEW!] Use the key command: ⌘ + O on Mac, Alt + O on Windows
Quick note on option 4: The use of key commands are the core difference in what makes someone a power-user. 🧠Academy Members: Learn the top keyboard shortcuts in this popular masterclass. Not yet an Academy member? Join today to access this training and more!
There are so many helpful little use cases for this feature. From my own experience and the feedback from members of the Academy, it’s clear this is a small but important feature that helps people work more effectively. You can manage multiple notes side by side, auto-organize your workspace, and even move windows to a second monitor for an expanded view. You can also optimize readability in the preferences, ensuring your notes are easy to work with in any window.
How Evernote Users Are Using This Feature:
It’s not just me saying this either! Here’s what members of my Academy are telling each other about how they use the note window in their workflows:
It helps me avoid distractions by keeping the window all on one screen — Cathy
I’m able to quickly reference notes and stay organized on two monitors — Edwin
Zoom calls are so much easier when I have all the notes open — Claudia
Work is much more efficient when notes are on single windows to track — Sandra
My weekly reviews are a breeze because I can keep all the project lists open — Leigh-Anne
Ready to take your Evernote experience to the next level? Try these tips today and see how much smoother your workflow can become.
Cheers to your productivity!
Stacey 💚
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