My Oddest Invention

I have a unique creative workflow trick. I call it The Odds System. It’s possible I copied it, but I think I invented it. Although “invent” might be a lofty term considering how simple this is.

The Odds System is a quick and easy way to file stray bits that don’t fit with what you’re working on but might be useful later.

Here’s how it works.

Let’s say you’ve got a good sentence, but it doesn’t fit your article. That sentence is “odd.” “Odd” as in “different.” “Odd” as in “odds and ends”.

• Cut that good sentence

• Scroll to the end of your doc

• Add the heading “Odds”

• Paste in the sentence

Other stray bits get pasted into Odds as you continue writing and editing the article.

Mostly what gets pasted into Odds is gone forever. But sometimes you miss that part you cut and decide it does belong. It’s now easy to put it back in.

The Odds System is less permanent than deleting text. It lets you move quickly with minimal friction.

Another trick I often do is this.

You’re not sure if a part needs to be in or out. Do this.

• Cut the bit

• Paste it in Odds

• See if you miss it

If not, great, you just shortened and simplified the piece.

Turns out you need it, it’s in Odds.

And here’s The Odds Sytem's killer feature: sometimes a cut bit grows into a new piece. This happens for many creators – the next thing grows out of some misfit fragment from the last thing.

And you can use the Odds system in work other than writing. When I’m editing, I also create an “Odds” timeline where I paste in clips that don’t fit.

That’s The Odds Systems. Try it out.

And call it whatever you want, but “odds” is quick to type.