Why I abandoned Drafts and returned to text files for managing my information repository

In a recent blog post, I discussed my decision to switch back to Drafts as my primary information repository. While this move has proven beneficial, there was one lingering concern: the potential for data loss due to database corruption or iCloud taking a shit. To address this concern, I adopted the practice of saving all information in both Drafts and text files. However, maintaining synchronization between the database and files has become a constant challenge.

After careful consideration, I concluded that storing information in both Drafts and text files was an unnecessary redundancy. Since I am unwilling to abandon text files, I decided to eliminate Drafts as an information repository and rely solely on text files for data storage.

To implement this change, I have consolidated all my text files within the iA Writer library. Drafts now serves as a temporary workspace for short-term notes and text capture, with permanent information residing in text files accessible from any text editor. Additionally, I have integrated HoudahSpot search to facilitate efficient information retrieval.

I am confident that this simplified system will serve my information management needs.

3 thoughts on “Why I abandoned Drafts and returned to text files for managing my information repository

  1. I use The Archive for this purpose and for the same reason. Since The Archive only functions on Mac computer, I use 1Writer to access all my text files on iOS. I have tried iA Writer as well, but find 1Writer a bit more flexible / capable. But both are good, in my experience.

  2. Yes; that is my approach as well. But for writing on the Mac computer, I prefer The Archive. It is specifically designed for Zettelkasten work, but functions perfectly for other applications. Anyway, that is quibbling; they key point is to work with plain text files (and Markdown, if you desire to do so). I think you’ve made a prudent / solid decision, Loren.

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