Take notes.

A notebook can be a very useful tool in your practicing routine. The more you use it, the more it becomes yours. And the more it becomes yours, the more useful it will be. If you haven't used a practicing notebook before and you're wondering how to get started, try a few of these suggestions.

1. If you can, use an actual paper notebook rather than your phone, tablet or computer.

2. Make writing in your notebook the first and last steps of every practice session. Write down:

• The date and time.

• The top three or four topics you want to work on during this session.

• The amount of time you plan to spend on each topic.

• Anything you want to keep in mind as you go.

• It's also a good idea to review what you wrote down during your last few practice sessions.

3. As you practice, if you notice something you want to remember, write it in the notebook.

4. If you accomplish something you're proud of, write it in the notebook.

5. If you need to work something out on paper, work it out in the notebook.

6. If it helps to draw something to figure it out, draw it in the notebook.

7. When you finish working on each topic, check it off. If you don't get to it, circle it.

8. When you're done practicing, write either “Good” or “Done” at the bottom of your entry for today. “Good” means that something positive came out of this practicing session. “Done” means you showed up and gave it your best.