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The Daily Insight Hub

Do people still use index cards?

Author

Sarah Martinez

Updated on February 06, 2026

Index cards are mostly obsolete nowadays. We use them to create flash cards, write recipes, and occasionally fold them up into cool paper airplanes. But their original purpose was nothing less than organizing and classifying every known animal, plant, and mineral in the world.

How do you use index cards for studying?

Here are 10 tips to help you master even the most mind-bending multiple-choice questions with index cards.

  1. Vocalize each index card.
  2. Write short, simple definitions.
  3. Use bullet points.
  4. Doodle on your index cards.
  5. Start quizzing yourself early.
  6. Try to fail.
  7. Use past tests as a guide.
  8. Try a color-coding system.

Can index cards be used as postcards?

Index cards make great postcard bases, because they’re already cut to a size the Post Office will accept. Other companies sell postcard-sized art papers, but they’re often insanely expensive.

Can you walk through an index card?

When you look at an index card it seems pretty obvious that you can’t cut a simple circle in the middle and step through it, but with some clever cutting you can keep the paper connected but make it stretch out enough to step through. The surface area of the card stays the same, it just gets redistributed.

Can you make index cards on Microsoft Word?

Another easy way to make index cards is by using the envelopes and labels printing settings in Microsoft Word 2016. Select the Labels option in the top left of the Mailings tab. A window will open up, click the Labels tab, and select the Options button. Now select Index Cards from the menu.

How do you hold index cards together?

You can store index cards in your desk at school or at home. You can also keep them in a binder, folder, or empty pencil box. You may want to tie a rubber band around the index cards to keep them in place. You can also punch a hole in the top right or left corner of each index card.

How do you write a good index card?

Let’s get into it.

  1. Make Your Own Flash Cards.
  2. Mix Pictures and Words.
  3. Use Mnemonic Devices to Create Mental Connections.
  4. Write Only One Question Per Card.
  5. Break Complex Concepts Into Multiple Questions.
  6. Say Your Answers Out Loud When Studying.
  7. Study Your Flash Cards in Both Directions.

Are note cards effective?

Adults can use them to learn foreign languages, high school students can use them to memorise exam work and, while there is some controversy around using flashcards to teach very young kids to read and count, they have been very effective in teaching children with disabilities, specifically Down syndrome, to speak and …

Is cardstock thick enough for a postcard?

Postcards are considerably thicker than letter paper or even other cardstock because they have to outlast a trip through the postal system unharmed. Generally speaking, heavier cardstock is good for two things: durability and elegance. It doesn’t fold, tear, or warp as easily, so it can withstand more abuse.

What kind of stamp do I need for a postcard?

Most postcards can be mailed using a postcard stamp but over-sized/large/jumbo postcards require the same postage that a one-ounce first class letter needs to be mailed (currently $0.55 per stamp). If it’s larger than those dimensions the post office considers it a letter and you’ll need a one-ounce stamp to mail it.

When do you need to use index cards?

You can make use of index cards when you want to take notes during class or attending board meetings. You can create comprehensive bullet-point notes that make it easier for you to remember the important things you wish to easily remember.

What’s the difference between flash cards and index cards?

Unique among all note taking, index card or flash card apps, Index Cards is focused on taking notes and providing a creative and inspiring user experience for what I would call a ‘creative professional’ such as a project manager, story writer, product manager, student, creative teams or innovators.

What are the disadvantages of card indexing system?

The system of card index suffers from the following limitations: (a) A wrong placement of card will create a substantial problem in locating cards. (b) This system of indexing is a blind system. As the cards are handled directly, the chances of disfigurement and gradual destruction of cards are much greater in this system.

How is the index of a book prepared?

The index is prepared by allotting a separate card to each piece of information. The required information are written on the cards. All cards are of uniform size and are arranged in alphabetical, numerical or geographical order. Cards are put in the steel drawer and a rod is put through them to hold them together.