Sam Altman recently shared his thoughts on note-taking, and while he touches on some good points, his approach is largely flawed. He advocates for physical writing, which is true if you’re not a fan of digital tools, but the execution falls short.
Altman’s preference for spiral-bound notebooks is understandable, as they do lie flat. However, a reporter’s notebook is a better option due to its convenience and portability. The A6 size he’s holding is impractical, making it difficult to hold in one hand while writing with the other.
The real issue lies in Altman’s approach to disposable writing – tearing out pages, crumpling them up, and throwing them away. This method is unnecessary and can be replaced with index cards or a stack of paper held together with a rubber band or binder clip.
If you’re not concerned about paper quality, thread-bound notebooks like Leuchtturm1917 are a good alternative. The writer also notes that high-quality paper is overhyped, especially for those who already have strong preferences.
When it comes to pens, Altman recommends the Uni-Ball Micro 0.5 or Muji Gel Ink Cap Ballpoint Pen in dark blue ink. However, the writer advises against ballpoint pens due to their poor glide and hand cramping issues. A Pilot Precise v5 or v7 is a better option for those who write extensively by hand.
Ultimately, Altman’s lack of consideration for his tools and methods raises questions about his leadership style. This behavior may be indicative of the issues plaguing OpenAI under his guidance.
Source: https://www.theverge.com/2024/11/25/24305832/sam-altman-pen-notebook-muji-uniball