Write everything on your mind — tasks, ideas, worries, reminders. One item per line. Do not sort or judge yet.
What is a Brain Dump?
A brain dump is a free-form writing space to empty every thought, worry, and todo onto the page before focusing. Clearing working memory reduces background anxiety that fragments attention.
How to Use
- Set a timer for 5–10 minutes or write until the page feels empty.
- Capture everything — tasks, ideas, worries — without editing or organizing.
- When finished, click Process and triage each line: done now, later, or skip.
- Move important items to the Eisenhower Matrix, then start a Pomodoro focus block.
How It Works
Open loops occupy working memory (Zeigarnik effect). Brain dumping externalizes loops onto paper so the prefrontal cortex stops rehearsing them. GTD's "mind like water" begins with capture — you cannot prioritize what you have not written down.
Why It Works for Productivity
Starting focus with a full head guarantees mid-session intrusive thoughts. Dumping first is cheaper than stopping pomodoros to "remember something." The practice also reveals hidden priorities obscured by noise.
Tips
Do a brain dump each morning before planning. Use before long focus sessions. Pair with the Not-To-Do List to name distractions you will avoid today.
Frequently Asked Questions
Brain Dump vs. a simple notes app?
Brain Dump adds a process step — triage each line into action, later, or skip — so capture turns into a plan.
Is content saved?
Yes, locally in your browser until you clear it.