This article will teach you how to create an iPhone shortcut for quickly capturing items in Notion.
You can run the shortcut from your lock screen or while using another app.
Step 1: Create a shortcut
First you need to download the Shortcuts app by Apple. Then, open the app and create a new shortcut.
Step 2: Ask for input
First, search for and add an action called “Ask for Input.”
This action is useful because you can write your own personalized prompt in the “Prompt” field.
For example, you might use “What’s on your mind?”
Additionally, you can tap the chevron button to reveal the option to toggle “Allow Multiple Lines” on or off, depending on whether you are capturing short or long text.
Step 3: Save to Notion
Next, search for "Notion" to view all the actions provided by the Notion app. Then, add the action “Create Document Without Opening.”
First, click on the “Title” field and select the variable "Ask for Input” to retrieve the text from the previous action.
In most cases, you can leave the “Body” field empty if you are simply capturing the title of a page.
For the “Database” field, you can choose a specific database, such as your notes database, or save it to the Private section in Notion.
I prefer the latter because my workflow involves processing these loose pages in Private when I return to my desktop.
Step 4: Customize the appearance
The next step is to give the shortcut a name and an icon of your choice.
Click the chevron button next to the shortcut name and select "Rename" to rename it.
Then click it again, this time choosing "Choose Icon," and pick a color and icon that you will recognize as the shortcut.
Step 5: Install the shortcut
You can place the shortcut in various locations on your device, depending on what fits your workflow.
Options include a home screen widget, lock screen control, Control Center, back tap, or action button, if available.