Enhancing Productivity with Tools, Aesthetics & AI • Cassidy Williams & Ben Hong • GOTO 2024

AI tools like GitHub Copilot are best used for iterative assistance and refinement rather than complete replacement of human work - they help get 80-90% of the way there but still require human oversight

Note-taking tools like Obsidian offer advantages through local-first storage, plain text files, and the ability to create flexible connections between notes without rigid hierarchical structures

Aesthetics and tooling quality significantly impact productivity and creative output - from well-crafted keyboards to high-quality pens to distraction-free writing devices

Custom keyboard shortcuts and macros (like remapping Caps Lock) can dramatically improve workflow efficiency and reduce context switching overhead

When applying for jobs, AI-generated content (resumes, cover letters) is easily detectable and not a differentiator - personal effort and human connection remain critical

Plain text files provide better long-term data preservation compared to proprietary formats or cloud-only solutions

The right tools should enhance natural workflow rather than forcing specific organizational systems - flexibility and ease of use are key

Distraction-free environments and dedicated single-purpose tools can help maintain focus and improve thought clarity

AI tools work best when used to iterate and refine existing work rather than generate from scratch

The human elements of craft, expertise and critical thinking remain essential even as AI tools become more sophisticated