I've been working as a developer for three years now, mainly in JavaScript, TypeScript, React, and Node, but I struggle to remember things I read online. I find myself Googling concepts, thinking "this is great!" but then completely forgetting about them soon after. Even when I save articles in Notion or check the official documentation, I only grasp a fraction of it, and it often feels out of context. I'm on the lookout for a tool or extension that could help me:
- Highlight and send text or concepts to a queue with one click
- Tag concepts as Pending, Half-baked, Solid, or Mastered
- Automatically query an LLM for a clear explanation alongside real-life JS/React examples and links to my previous notes
- Utilize my tech stack history to improve responses over time
- Incorporate reminders or spaced repetition techniques
I've already tried tools like Readwise, Obsidian clipper, Raindrop, and Anki, but none of these quite fit my needs. Has anyone found a workflow or tool, whether paid, free, or a unique combination, that truly works for retaining coding knowledge?
5 Answers
One effective way to remember concepts is to actually implement them from scratch. Just skimming through articles or copying and pasting code won’t help you retain the information. It’s much more beneficial to apply what you learn in a real project.
Your brain is like a muscle – it needs to be exercised! Just reading about concepts won’t stick unless you actually put them into play. If you want to learn for real, you need to use what you learn in projects, not just theorize about it.
I’ve got a system of using Google bookmarks organized into folders for easy retrieval. While bookmarks can sometimes go stale, I also keep important notes in Google Keep. It's quite handy since I use other Google apps regularly, making everything integrated and accessible.
Sounds like a smart strategy! I’ve been meaning to try Google Keep for my notes as well.
It’s funny how many people jump straight to using AI to solve problems. Learning deeply often requires effort and practice, not just memorizing bits of information as if you’re cramming for an exam. It’s about applying knowledge, not just studying it superficially.
I think relying on LLMs can actually hinder your learning instead of helping it. You should be coding things out manually rather than having AI do it for you. Working through the challenges yourself is where real learning happens.
I’ve seen that too! Engaging with the code really makes a difference.
Totally agree! Doing it hands-on really cements the knowledge.