CODE Method (Tiago Forte)
Four-step personal knowledge management framework: Capture, Organize, Distill, Express. Created by Tiago Forte for Building a Second Brain methodology. Helps knowledge workers systematically manage digital information and boost creative output.
Last updated: 2026-03-20 17:39
Overview
The CODE Method is the core framework of Tiago Forte's Building a Second Brain methodology. It provides a systematic approach to capturing, organizing, and utilizing information in the digital age.
The Four Steps
Capture
- Keep what resonates personally
- Capture from multiple sources
- Focus on quality over quantity
- Use capture tools that reduce friction
Organize
- Use PARA method (Projects, Areas, Resources, Archives)
- Organize by actionability, not topic
- Make information retrievable when needed
- Keep structure simple and scalable
Distill
- Progressive summarization technique
- Highlight key points in passes
- Extract essence without losing context
- Create layers of information density
Express
- Create tangible outputs from knowledge
- Share insights through various media
- Complete the learning cycle
- Make knowledge actionable
Benefits
- Reduces cognitive load
- Never lose important information
- Accelerates project completion
- Improves decision-making
- Enhances creativity through connection
Application
Works with tools like Notion, Evernote, Obsidian, or any note-taking system. Platform agnostic methodology.
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