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Just a brief word for the "other side." As a user, I LOVE notes columns in
manuals for two reasons. First, it gives me a chance to put my own spin on
a procedure. That is, add my own words, or clarify something. This is
especially true when I struggled with the procedure on first attempt before
figuring it out. If I don't use it again for awhile, my notes help me to
remember how the problem was solved the last time.
But frankly, the biggest reason I love note columns is that when I write in
them, the ink looks different that the printed copy. Hence, when flipping
through the manual, I can instantly spot sections I've used before. Yes, I
know that's what indexes are for, but...call me lazy :-)