I keep putting off the index because I want it to look tidy

[archivedays]

When I start a notebook I plan to keep, I want its index to be neat and useful. I leave it blank at first, then return later to add page references and end up making numbering mistakes. The notes themselves are easy enough to write; I just keep putting off that first index page because I want to get it right.

[stickerleftovers]

That index doesn't have to be finished in one go. Add the page number and a couple keywords as soon as you write the note, then save extra cross-references for later. A chronological list can be a little messy and still be useful.