Using index cards and pocket-sized notebooks 📝

May Allah bless you for this benefit, Shaykh Mustafa. I was recently telling a group of students the advantages of putting down devices and picking up a pen, as man was taught by the pen. Here are a few points I mentioned: [1] Studies suggest handwriting activates regions of the brain that help with memory, making longhand notes more effective for retaining information. Years ago, I heard Shaykh al-Albani say, “Indeed, computers make a person dim-witted.” The Shaykh said this in the context of research and memorization. Unfortunately, total reliance on electronic devices has made many doltish. [2] Longhand writing forces you to slow down and process information and reduces distractions like scrolling and surfing. [3] The act of writing, improves fine motor skills, especially for young children. (Some states are bringing back cursive writing courses in elementary schools.) Handwriting also helps develop hand-eye coordination.

جزاكم الله خيرا يا شيخ I saw Shaykh Moosaa Richardson pull out his pocket sized notebook and review several times when there was downtime at a recent conference. I went and bought one to do the same. They are a great way to take advantage of random downtime that could normally go to waste.