The most important thing is that you do what works for you! Each writer definitely has their own process, but it's only the end result that truly matters.

I was part of a group of travel writers who met monthly to critique each other's articles. I remember discussing our processes and it was fascinating. Our shared goal was 1200 words (the length newspapers wanted for a featured article). I had a rough idea of what I wanted to cover and would write following my rough plan, always keeping an eye on my word count. I became an expert at fitting all I wanted to include within the range of 1195 - 1205 words.

Another person in the group would write down everything, then edit back to 1200 words. Sometimes his word count started at over 2800! That would have made me crazy.

Different strokes for different folks indeed. All that matters is the end result.

I use a notebook as well. I write my main points by hand based on the research and then transfer everything to my post based on my research into my post.
Sometimes I just have the key phrase and write it as I'm researching it so that I don't have to do it twice :-)

Your method is not dissimilar to my own Tai... I always have a notebook and pen on my work station!

But that is it though! I am not a huge fan of clutter and mess (even if it is well organised)!! Where I try to work!!

The biggest problem I have at the moment is too many unfinished articles on the go at the same time... it is getting better.. but I must try to focus and finish one at a time before starting a new one!!

Have a great day my friend! :-)

Tai, I use a template outline that helps me to organize writing my articles. Research notes are typed in my word doc. I use several writing softwares to help writing my articles faster. It works for me. Like you stated that everyone has their own way of planning and writing up their articles. Before research used to take hours now I can do it quicker with the softwares thats helpful. I double check by checking out the sources to make sure that its accurate. I verify copy rights issue the software does that for me. Everything is laid out for me. After, the article is written. I proofread and run it through the softwares to help keep my writing simple and concise. Then post it. Most of my writing follows academic style. I always cite my sources because this prevents plagiarism. I teach this to my students as well. I also have copyscape to prevent others from copying my site also there is a plug in that prevents someone from right click highlight and copy. That is a useful tool to use.

Totally get it...I suppose I should get a notebook, as you can only write so much on a post - it note...grin.

Organization...what's that? I use a spreadsheet, but the idea yo set it up as yoi mentioned well, my eyes will glaze over...

And there is a term for the condition for leaving papers and receipts on the counter...

Flat-top-itis. Im very familiar with that condition...grin.

And yes, there is a method to my madness as well....grin.

If it works, work it!

Rudy