Bruce Harlan
What i learned from watching and reading the productivity field guide; I learned to take stock of your life, are you doing things that may not be important. Also to how structure your life and productivity journey based on defining your Arete (what excellence means to you) and to Create roles based on the importance to you. Once you go through the process and this becomes the driver for how you plan your day, week month and quarter! you will gain insight prioritizing the important things! You will realize that it isn’t how many things you get done but it is those big rocks that are important to you you want complete! You are doing less but it is actually more of the important things based on your roles and how you define them your excellence (Arete) in each , how you want to be your best for that role. My favorite things are the awesome and thoughtful structure of the Productivity Field Guide. It set up for you to have opportunity to be successful. The videos are so informative. Y can go back rewatch and listen and always cross reference with the book I would definitely recommend the productivity field!! It is a great value and provides so much at such an affordable price. There is a great community of thoughtful productivity enthusiasts that are willing to offer advice and assistance!!
Apr 15, 2024
Gordon Ferrier
This is so much more than the usual "set an ideal goal and then find out how ideal it is by failing to achieve it" type of course. I was really taken by the way it is rooted in the Greek concept of areté, and how MacSparky connected that to his undergraduate days. Highly recommended.
Apr 16, 2024
Ward Roef
All my life I have been interested in productivity, efficiency, energy management. I've read a lot of books in the last 8 years, like Feel Good Productivity, Make Time, Hyperfocus, Deep Work, Eat That Frog, The Productivity Project, The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People, ... And I've taken a lot of courses, tested a lot of apps and learned a lot. I built my own system. That's still a work in progress. But when David Sparks launched this new course, The Productivity Field Guide, I bought it and I bought the Plus version. I think this is the best course that I have ever taken about productivity. Why? This is not a guru. This is not some wishful thinking. This is a man that practices what he preaches. This is his own system that he has built during all his life, being a lawyer and building out MacSparky. He has brought MacSparky from a side hustle to the successful company that it is today. And all the tools, the techniques, and the ideas that he has been using based on the books that he has read. He has made this into a very concrete project. And what I was missing in all the other courses was the why and the how. This is a very practical course. You can build your own why or analyse your own why. Step by step you get guidance to make this your own. Thank you David.
Apr 10, 2024
Panos Frantzis
Being a Greek and living in Akadimia Platonos in the centre of Athens I can for sure say that the Roles and Arete system of MacSparky is familiar to my thinking. Though the role system as explained and designed in conjunction with the apps or techniques is well thought and taught. I started building my daily life accordingly and I can see a great benefit so far.
Apr 10, 2024
Rob M. Olian
I bought this because I buy all of David's Field Guides, but wasn't expecting much from this, figuring it would be too touchy-feely. Instead, I found it incredibly useful both as a way of organizing much of what David has alluded to in bits and pieces over the years, but also because it is truly a practical guide, even if it is not a technical software guide like his other Field Guides. This will be useful to anyone, no matter where you are on life's journey.
Jan 17, 2024
Jim Eagar
MacSparky’s Productivity Field Guide is his best work yet! He teaches a productivity system that is unique to you: it grows out of your life roles and what is important to you. Unlike most productivity systems, it’s comprehensive: it deals with all areas of your life, not just what you do at work. It’s practical: he gives you step-by-step instructions on how to set up your unique systems. It is inspirational and transformative: it can change your life and help you to become a better person in all areas of your life. I'm a better husband because of this system. Amazing value for the price: buy it now!
Jan 8, 2024
Dave Myhre
What I love about David's Productivity Field Guide is it's not about cranking more widgets, it's how to define your best self and then pursue it.
Jan 8, 2024
Debra H.
Once again, this guide reminds me why I love David’s Field guides so much. The Productivity Field Guide starts by talking about what to do and how to think about your activities before he even starts in on how to get more done in less time. (As a classics major, I always love his references to Plato, Aristotle, Marcus Aurelius et al which put productivity in the context of our humanity rather than as a mechanical device.) Unlike almost every other Productivity Guide, this one doesn’t push a hard-and-fast philosophical school or toolkit… It’s meant for adults who can think about the principles, experiment, and decide for themselves what will most effectively help them reach their goals. I’ve read and followed a lot of productivity systems and gurus and found David’s take very freeing and powerful and a great way to make 2024 a year where you can more effectively fulfill your unique purpose.
Jan 9, 2024
Aidan
I've listened to David Sparks' podcasts for a few years now and have always wondered how he gets so much done. He's talked about some of his approaches before but there is so much more to the Productivity Field Guide. Having followed productivity guides for at least 25 years, I'm excited about the approach David puts forward to help you decide what's important to you and therefore what you should be working on to be your best self. It's already helping me be more effective in my day to day routines and has really got me thinking about how this could change my life.
Jan 7, 2024
Irene K.
The chapter on roles and arete blew my mind. Irene K.
Jan 8, 2024
Chris Aiken
I find David's thoughtful approach to productivity quite different than most that I have tried in that he's pointing one towards a better life, not simply towards the quantity of work one gets done. He asks us to consider what we do in relation to what we value and gives us tools discover things we could let go of that are not aligning with who we want to be in our best version of our self. Well done.
Jan 5, 2024
Sue Waghorn
FINALLY a productivity course that uses the true meaning of life to help you focus on the important areas we really should be working on. Working through my Arete, Roles, and Why? Question l actually became quite emotional as I finally realised that using this system will finally allow me to identify and focus on the people and areas that are most important in my life. I have almost ALL of the MacSparky Field Guides but without a doubt this is the best! Seeing the passion David has put into the videos and material for this course is clear evidence of why he "quit" his day job to follow his MacSparky dreams! I urge everyone to get this course as it's not the usual "do this and you will have 8hrs free time per day". This course actually makes you take a long hard look at yourself. It makes you question why you do what you do, who you do things for and what you need to do to be the best person you can be. Not only for yourself but for those around you. Thank you so much David..x
Jan 6, 2024
Michel Rathbone
The approach regarding arete, roles not goals and carrying water was a hugely helpful basis. The remainder of the course followed these principles. I read it in one day and re-read it several times since. Each time, I tuned my productivity. The course has paid many dividends so far and resulted in several beneficial life changes.
Jan 6, 2024
Philipp
Watching the Field Guide is like sitting down with a good friend and talking about your priorities in life. Compared to other productivity resources, this guide is not about figuring out how to do more things in less time; this field guide is about figuring out how to give more time to the important things.
Jan 5, 2024
Brendan B
Anyone who has followed MacSparky for a while starts to wonder how he gets it all done. This Field Guide answers that question in spades. It’s not a done for you, if you do x you will be amazingly productive type course. David provides his framework and processes so we can create our own unique systems for productivity. A process that I am throughly enjoying working through. If you are interested in creating your own productivity system then I highly recommend this field guide.
Jan 4, 2024
Robe
Great Stuff ! I have been following David for years and the stuff keeps getting better and better. Highly Recommend
Jan 4, 2024
Dr. Roy Wood
I've been a productivity nerd for decades, reading and adopting new and better techniques over time. So, I was hesitant at first to purchase the Productivity Field Guide, thinking it would be a rehash of the things I already learned, but I'm glad I did. David projects productivity through a different lens - one that most productivity gurus don't provide. His approach to productivity revolves around the person's roles and walks you through understanding how you can be the best you can be at each of those roles (he calls this arete, which he explains in the course). From this foundational starting point, it becomes clear exactly where we should focus our productivity efforts. In this model, productivity isn't just efficiency for efficiency's sake, but an accelerated pathway to being our best selves. This focus has been the missing piece in so many of the past productivity systems I've used and may just be life-changing. Of course, David's step-by-step approach and clear explanations are easy for anyone to follow, and his passion for the subject and empathy for his viewers shines through in every video. I hope you enjoy this course as much as I do.
Jan 5, 2024
Mark Levison - Certified Scrum Trainer
I've been playing with Productivity systems for nearly 20 years. I wouldn't expect to have anything new to learn. Sparky proved me wrong. He just saved me from a painful annual review process and has me incorporating my varied roles into my process more.
Jan 5, 2024
Nicholas Barnes
I have bought all of MacSparky's Field Guides. There is an engaging degree of simplicity and clarity to his products. At the same time, for complex topics, he is able to communicate in a way that steers you through the forest to plainer pastures. He not only teaches you but does so at your pace and your way.
Jan 5, 2024
Mike Doel
I spent today going through the Keyboard Maestro field guide. I’ve gone through several others as well. David’s teaching style helps me understand not just the mechanics but the practical uses as well. I really appreciate getting to learn from Sparky.
Nov 11, 2023
Jim Eagar
Before I worked through the Obsidian Field Guide, I had no interest in using Obsidian. If anything, I felt negative toward the app. I’d taken a few webinars and tried it, but dropped it as not useful to me. However, David’s excellent teaching about how the app works and how people use it completely changed my thinking. Now, I’m in the process of using Obsidian to create my own thinking tool, my own “jimOS” vault, where I write down how I think and feel about many life issues. Obsidian is not user-friendly and has a steep learning curve. MacSparky does a great job breaking it down into bite-sized pieces so readers can understand the pieces and build them into an understanding of how to use the app. He not only teaches about the app’s mechanics but also gives lots of helpful information about the practical uses of the app. The Field Guide is a great learning tool!
Nov 11, 2023
Peter Harmon - AKA PilotPete
The MacSparky Field Guide for Keyboard Maestro is an invaluable resource for both beginners and seasoned users. Keyboard Maestro, with its intricate and powerful automation capabilities, can be daunting for many. While some may find it intuitive, the majority will appreciate the clarity and simplicity that David Sparks brings to the table. He expertly demystifies the software, breaking down complex functions into easy-to-follow steps. This guide is essential for anyone looking to unlock the full potential of their computer through automation. Don't wait to transform your workflow; get the MacSparky Field Guide now and make the most out of Keyboard Maestro! In fact it's so easy following his guide, it's almost like child's play!
Nov 12, 2023
Richard Hayes
I have followed several MacSparky Field Guides: DEVONthink, OmniFocus, Hazel, and Obsidian. Although I had used all those apps before following the Field Guides for them, I learned in every one of them features I had not known about. In every case the Field Guides helped me use the apps more efficiently and more enjoyably. A bonus feature for me as a retired professor is watching masterful pedagogy in action. David has a gift for clarity and accessibility, all delivered with a pleasant personality. I have recommended the Field Guides to several friends and will continue doing so in the future.
Nov 6, 2023
Andrea Buchtel
After upgrading to the new macOS, I found the restrictions on some new features super frustrating. Listening to Automators and Mac Power Users, I learned that Keyboard Maestro could help. But I didn't have time to dig deep into it from ground zero. What I wanted was some quick instructions to give me foundational knowledge, and show me what's possible. I figured once I could see it in action, and where the edges are, I would be able to use it for my purposes. Fortunately there is a MacSparky Field Guide! Signing up was quick and easy, and I got through the material over the weekend. I appreciated that each video was specific to one aspect. The short-and-to-the-point nature of the videos made it easier for me to stay focused and engaged. And the combination of video and text helped me best understand what I wanted to do with the App, and how it best works with my brain and existing skills. I appreciate the downloads too — they gave me a leg up on my own macros, and I'll be able to refer to them long after I remember the exact details of this course. Thank you, David, for a premium learning experience. I highly recommend this field guide.
Oct 24, 2023
Fred S Frawley
Favorite. Down to earth, great learning.
Oct 29, 2023
Tomás Howlin
Indispensable ⚙️ David's videos have been a blessing for me. I LOVE and need these wizardly-looking-productivity-tools but have little time to learn how to use them. The Filed Guides get me to what I need in no time. Recommended 🙌
Oct 29, 2023
Bob Cassidy
MacSparky Field Guides are amazing. As an IT professional with over 40 years of experience, I learn more from the Field Guides than any other source, hands down! The combination of text and video, along with the excellent organization of the content is not only excellent for tutorial use, but also as a useful reference. I highly recommend the Field Guides even if you just have a passing interest in whatever area the guide covers.
Oct 30, 2023
Nik Thierry
The Keyboard Maestro tutorials got me from feeling overwhelmed by a complex piece of software, to feeling professional with it. This great set of videos that have changed how I use my Mac.
Oct 30, 2023
Nick Wagner
The MacSparky Field Guides are indispensable tools for getting the most out of new apps and technologies. David Sparks is a master explainer. His field guides are clear and concise, and his skilled use of video makes them easy to follow. Each field guide is suitable for a wide range of viewer expertise, starting from the basics and going on to offer valuable guidance for more experienced users. I look forward to every new field guide that comes out.
Oct 30, 2023
Lee A Garrett
Eric Bowers
Matthew
David is the Bob Ross of technology; calming, enjoyable and instructive, I have learnt an unquantifiable amount from him and his Field Guides. The Field Guides are all excellent (I should know, I think I have purchased them all) and just keep getting better and better. The stand-outs for me are the DEVONthink and the Obsidian ones. The production values are just so good. Each step (from installation to advanced use) is explained in clear terms, with demonstrations. Both DEVONthink and Obsidian are huge programmes and complex pieces of software. David's structured approach to each of them meant that I was taken by my digital hand and led through the complexities of the software. By the end, I felt better to tackle using them both and felt more productive as a result. David's Field Guides aren't cheap, but they are some of the best value products I've ever purchased. My only criticism: I wish there were more of them and they covered every piece of software I used. Many thanks to David.
Oct 8, 2023
Ranny Welton
I have spent a lot of time and effort getting a handle on Obsidian, following excellent instructors. Although Nick and Mike's materials are excellent, MacSparky's Obsidian Field Guide really takes it to a different level of understanding. He really explains completely the various segments which helps the understanding of the overall use cases of others. Highly recommend!! As a matter of fact, I have taken several of the field guides and would have the same recommendation for all.
Oct 10, 2023
Jeff Freeze
MacSparky's Field Guides have taught me so much about Shortcuts, Drafts, Paperless workflows, and other topics. Shortcuts is my favorite course. I love that it gives a full spectrum of knowledge. The courses take the student from Beginner to Power User and you can certainly decide for yourself where you want to end your knowledge journey along that spectrum. The courses allow me to easily go back over subject matter I didn't grasp the first time through. Also, compared to other learning platforms, mainly YouTube for me, Sparky's Field Guides give structure to my learning. I am not hopping around various videos trying to piece together the information I am attempting to learn. If Sparky has a Field Guide on the subject it is a well organized and structured way to learn a lot about that topic. I highly recommend buying Sparky's Field Guides if there is subject matter that covers an area you would like to learn a lot more about. I bought the Obsidian Field Guide to support MacSparky even though I doubt Obsidian will ever fit into my personal workflow. I just wanted to support his efforts at creating great courses. That is how much I value MacSparky's Field Guides. I buy them even if it isn't a subject I am likely to use because I want him to keep making the great guides.
Oct 16, 2023
Michael G.
The Obsidian Field Guide is all that I had hoped for and then some. It lays out a clear, executable path to become an Obsidian power user regardless of where on the knowledge spectrum one starts. What makes the Obsidian Field Guide stand out in this space is its creator. David Sparks is above all a gifted teacher and communicator. He understands how to teach others and communicate clearly what he knows. He simplifies Obsidian, a complex and powerful program, providing a path to use it productively from the first day while also laying out a path to become a power user in a short period of time.
Aug 30, 2023
Anonymous
This is the third training program I’ve tried, and the only one making concepts stick. I am a professional educator, and MacSparky is among the master educators I’ve encountered in any subject domain.
Sep 13, 2023
Örjan Lindahl
Time is my most valuable asset - a MacSparky field guide allows me to become proficient with a tool in a comparably *very* short time - on top of that, I get strategy advice, wisdom on best practices for utilising the tool in the longer perspective - I highly recommend them (I have 3) - I highly recommend revisiting the field guide again some months later, when the deeper aspects of what David teaches can be absorbed
Oct 3, 2023
Marilyn R.
I knew Obsidian was powerful and tried repeatedly to learn it myself. Finally, after finishing this course, I get Obsidian.
Oct 3, 2023
Alan O.
Obsidian is the crown jewel of the Field Guides.
Oct 3, 2023
Chris B.
This guide will provide you with everything you could possibly ever need to go paperless with Apple tech. This is one of those rare courses that can pay for itself a hundred times over, provided you follow the advice inside. David knocked this one out of the park.
Oct 3, 2023
Tom M.
As a DEVONThink user for over 10 years and having built a personal database containing over 30,000 items, I would consider myself a reasonably sophisticated user of the app. However, buying David Sparks’ Field Guide was like being given an intricately detailed map and a high-beam flashlight to take with me on the journey into the wilderness that DEVONThink, with its overwhelming array of features, can sometimes be.
Oct 3, 2023
Christoph
I am only about halfway through and I can’t believe with how much detail and care MacSparky has laid out and delivered this guide. There are numerous examples for all kinds of apps and situations. The guide is easy to follow and without this guide I would have never been able to fully discover and enjoy the capabilities of shortcuts.
Oct 3, 2023
Charlie Uniman
The Obsidian Field Guide (Plus edition) is, in one word, superb. Obsidian is a difficult app to teach because it’s an app that can do so many different things in so many different ways. So, I marvel at how well David Sparks architected the course to be both comprehensive and clear. I thought I knew Obsidian pretty well after a year or so of using it, but David taught me a lot I didn’t know (both big things — getting a better handle on the Dataview plugin— and small things — I didn’t know about the setting that listed all backlinks to a note at the bottom of that note). I can’t thank David enough for making my everyday use of Obsidian so much better.
Oct 3, 2023
James S.
Macsparky has done it again, taking what could be an overwhelming app for newcomers and breaking it down into easy to follow pieces. Even the Obsidian power user has something here they can take away too. Bravo Sir! You really can’t go wrong with a Macsparky Field Guide, if you want to understand an app from the nuts and bolts right up to making it sing and dance then this is for you.
Sep 11, 2023
Kourosh Dini
If you are at all interested in figuring out how to get your notes to work well for you, Obsidian is a solid tool. And David Sparks’ Field Guide can take you from knowing nothing about Obsidian to being able to easily organize your notes and developing your ideas. As always, he presents things clearly where you could either learn one step at a time or surgically dive in to learn exactly the topics you want. Whether you’re a beginner or seasoned veteran, David gives you a fresh take on using Obsidian well."
Sep 8, 2023
Bruce Harlan
What i learned from watching and reading the productivity field guide; I learned to take stock of your life, are you doing things that may not be important. Also to how structure your life and productivity journey based on defining your Arete (what excellence means to you) and to Create roles based on the importance to you. Once you go through the process and this becomes the driver for how you plan your day, week month and quarter! you will gain insight prioritizing the important things! You will realize that it isn’t how many things you get done but it is those big rocks that are important to you you want complete! You are doing less but it is actually more of the important things based on your roles and how you define them your excellence (Arete) in each , how you want to be your best for that role. My favorite things are the awesome and thoughtful structure of the Productivity Field Guide. It set up for you to have opportunity to be successful. The videos are so informative. Y can go back rewatch and listen and always cross reference with the book I would definitely recommend the productivity field!! It is a great value and provides so much at such an affordable price. There is a great community of thoughtful productivity enthusiasts that are willing to offer advice and assistance!!
Apr 15, 2024
Gordon Ferrier
This is so much more than the usual "set an ideal goal and then find out how ideal it is by failing to achieve it" type of course. I was really taken by the way it is rooted in the Greek concept of areté, and how MacSparky connected that to his undergraduate days. Highly recommended.
Apr 16, 2024
Ward Roef
All my life I have been interested in productivity, efficiency, energy management. I've read a lot of books in the last 8 years, like Feel Good Productivity, Make Time, Hyperfocus, Deep Work, Eat That Frog, The Productivity Project, The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People, ... And I've taken a lot of courses, tested a lot of apps and learned a lot. I built my own system. That's still a work in progress. But when David Sparks launched this new course, The Productivity Field Guide, I bought it and I bought the Plus version. I think this is the best course that I have ever taken about productivity. Why? This is not a guru. This is not some wishful thinking. This is a man that practices what he preaches. This is his own system that he has built during all his life, being a lawyer and building out MacSparky. He has brought MacSparky from a side hustle to the successful company that it is today. And all the tools, the techniques, and the ideas that he has been using based on the books that he has read. He has made this into a very concrete project. And what I was missing in all the other courses was the why and the how. This is a very practical course. You can build your own why or analyse your own why. Step by step you get guidance to make this your own. Thank you David.
Apr 10, 2024
Panos Frantzis
Being a Greek and living in Akadimia Platonos in the centre of Athens I can for sure say that the Roles and Arete system of MacSparky is familiar to my thinking. Though the role system as explained and designed in conjunction with the apps or techniques is well thought and taught. I started building my daily life accordingly and I can see a great benefit so far.
Apr 10, 2024
Rob M. Olian
I bought this because I buy all of David's Field Guides, but wasn't expecting much from this, figuring it would be too touchy-feely. Instead, I found it incredibly useful both as a way of organizing much of what David has alluded to in bits and pieces over the years, but also because it is truly a practical guide, even if it is not a technical software guide like his other Field Guides. This will be useful to anyone, no matter where you are on life's journey.
Jan 17, 2024
Jim Eagar
MacSparky’s Productivity Field Guide is his best work yet! He teaches a productivity system that is unique to you: it grows out of your life roles and what is important to you. Unlike most productivity systems, it’s comprehensive: it deals with all areas of your life, not just what you do at work. It’s practical: he gives you step-by-step instructions on how to set up your unique systems. It is inspirational and transformative: it can change your life and help you to become a better person in all areas of your life. I'm a better husband because of this system. Amazing value for the price: buy it now!
Jan 8, 2024
Dave Myhre
What I love about David's Productivity Field Guide is it's not about cranking more widgets, it's how to define your best self and then pursue it.
Jan 8, 2024
Debra H.
Once again, this guide reminds me why I love David’s Field guides so much. The Productivity Field Guide starts by talking about what to do and how to think about your activities before he even starts in on how to get more done in less time. (As a classics major, I always love his references to Plato, Aristotle, Marcus Aurelius et al which put productivity in the context of our humanity rather than as a mechanical device.) Unlike almost every other Productivity Guide, this one doesn’t push a hard-and-fast philosophical school or toolkit… It’s meant for adults who can think about the principles, experiment, and decide for themselves what will most effectively help them reach their goals. I’ve read and followed a lot of productivity systems and gurus and found David’s take very freeing and powerful and a great way to make 2024 a year where you can more effectively fulfill your unique purpose.
Jan 9, 2024
Aidan
I've listened to David Sparks' podcasts for a few years now and have always wondered how he gets so much done. He's talked about some of his approaches before but there is so much more to the Productivity Field Guide. Having followed productivity guides for at least 25 years, I'm excited about the approach David puts forward to help you decide what's important to you and therefore what you should be working on to be your best self. It's already helping me be more effective in my day to day routines and has really got me thinking about how this could change my life.
Jan 7, 2024
Irene K.
The chapter on roles and arete blew my mind. Irene K.
Jan 8, 2024
Chris Aiken
I find David's thoughtful approach to productivity quite different than most that I have tried in that he's pointing one towards a better life, not simply towards the quantity of work one gets done. He asks us to consider what we do in relation to what we value and gives us tools discover things we could let go of that are not aligning with who we want to be in our best version of our self. Well done.
Jan 5, 2024
Sue Waghorn
FINALLY a productivity course that uses the true meaning of life to help you focus on the important areas we really should be working on. Working through my Arete, Roles, and Why? Question l actually became quite emotional as I finally realised that using this system will finally allow me to identify and focus on the people and areas that are most important in my life. I have almost ALL of the MacSparky Field Guides but without a doubt this is the best! Seeing the passion David has put into the videos and material for this course is clear evidence of why he "quit" his day job to follow his MacSparky dreams! I urge everyone to get this course as it's not the usual "do this and you will have 8hrs free time per day". This course actually makes you take a long hard look at yourself. It makes you question why you do what you do, who you do things for and what you need to do to be the best person you can be. Not only for yourself but for those around you. Thank you so much David..x
Jan 6, 2024
Michel Rathbone
The approach regarding arete, roles not goals and carrying water was a hugely helpful basis. The remainder of the course followed these principles. I read it in one day and re-read it several times since. Each time, I tuned my productivity. The course has paid many dividends so far and resulted in several beneficial life changes.
Jan 6, 2024
Philipp
Watching the Field Guide is like sitting down with a good friend and talking about your priorities in life. Compared to other productivity resources, this guide is not about figuring out how to do more things in less time; this field guide is about figuring out how to give more time to the important things.
Jan 5, 2024
Brendan B
Anyone who has followed MacSparky for a while starts to wonder how he gets it all done. This Field Guide answers that question in spades. It’s not a done for you, if you do x you will be amazingly productive type course. David provides his framework and processes so we can create our own unique systems for productivity. A process that I am throughly enjoying working through. If you are interested in creating your own productivity system then I highly recommend this field guide.
Jan 4, 2024
Robe
Great Stuff ! I have been following David for years and the stuff keeps getting better and better. Highly Recommend
Jan 4, 2024
Dr. Roy Wood
I've been a productivity nerd for decades, reading and adopting new and better techniques over time. So, I was hesitant at first to purchase the Productivity Field Guide, thinking it would be a rehash of the things I already learned, but I'm glad I did. David projects productivity through a different lens - one that most productivity gurus don't provide. His approach to productivity revolves around the person's roles and walks you through understanding how you can be the best you can be at each of those roles (he calls this arete, which he explains in the course). From this foundational starting point, it becomes clear exactly where we should focus our productivity efforts. In this model, productivity isn't just efficiency for efficiency's sake, but an accelerated pathway to being our best selves. This focus has been the missing piece in so many of the past productivity systems I've used and may just be life-changing. Of course, David's step-by-step approach and clear explanations are easy for anyone to follow, and his passion for the subject and empathy for his viewers shines through in every video. I hope you enjoy this course as much as I do.
Jan 5, 2024
Mark Levison - Certified Scrum Trainer
I've been playing with Productivity systems for nearly 20 years. I wouldn't expect to have anything new to learn. Sparky proved me wrong. He just saved me from a painful annual review process and has me incorporating my varied roles into my process more.
Jan 5, 2024
Nicholas Barnes
I have bought all of MacSparky's Field Guides. There is an engaging degree of simplicity and clarity to his products. At the same time, for complex topics, he is able to communicate in a way that steers you through the forest to plainer pastures. He not only teaches you but does so at your pace and your way.
Jan 5, 2024
Mike Doel
I spent today going through the Keyboard Maestro field guide. I’ve gone through several others as well. David’s teaching style helps me understand not just the mechanics but the practical uses as well. I really appreciate getting to learn from Sparky.
Nov 11, 2023
Jim Eagar
Before I worked through the Obsidian Field Guide, I had no interest in using Obsidian. If anything, I felt negative toward the app. I’d taken a few webinars and tried it, but dropped it as not useful to me. However, David’s excellent teaching about how the app works and how people use it completely changed my thinking. Now, I’m in the process of using Obsidian to create my own thinking tool, my own “jimOS” vault, where I write down how I think and feel about many life issues. Obsidian is not user-friendly and has a steep learning curve. MacSparky does a great job breaking it down into bite-sized pieces so readers can understand the pieces and build them into an understanding of how to use the app. He not only teaches about the app’s mechanics but also gives lots of helpful information about the practical uses of the app. The Field Guide is a great learning tool!
Nov 11, 2023
Peter Harmon - AKA PilotPete
The MacSparky Field Guide for Keyboard Maestro is an invaluable resource for both beginners and seasoned users. Keyboard Maestro, with its intricate and powerful automation capabilities, can be daunting for many. While some may find it intuitive, the majority will appreciate the clarity and simplicity that David Sparks brings to the table. He expertly demystifies the software, breaking down complex functions into easy-to-follow steps. This guide is essential for anyone looking to unlock the full potential of their computer through automation. Don't wait to transform your workflow; get the MacSparky Field Guide now and make the most out of Keyboard Maestro! In fact it's so easy following his guide, it's almost like child's play!
Nov 12, 2023
Richard Hayes
I have followed several MacSparky Field Guides: DEVONthink, OmniFocus, Hazel, and Obsidian. Although I had used all those apps before following the Field Guides for them, I learned in every one of them features I had not known about. In every case the Field Guides helped me use the apps more efficiently and more enjoyably. A bonus feature for me as a retired professor is watching masterful pedagogy in action. David has a gift for clarity and accessibility, all delivered with a pleasant personality. I have recommended the Field Guides to several friends and will continue doing so in the future.
Nov 6, 2023
Andrea Buchtel
After upgrading to the new macOS, I found the restrictions on some new features super frustrating. Listening to Automators and Mac Power Users, I learned that Keyboard Maestro could help. But I didn't have time to dig deep into it from ground zero. What I wanted was some quick instructions to give me foundational knowledge, and show me what's possible. I figured once I could see it in action, and where the edges are, I would be able to use it for my purposes. Fortunately there is a MacSparky Field Guide! Signing up was quick and easy, and I got through the material over the weekend. I appreciated that each video was specific to one aspect. The short-and-to-the-point nature of the videos made it easier for me to stay focused and engaged. And the combination of video and text helped me best understand what I wanted to do with the App, and how it best works with my brain and existing skills. I appreciate the downloads too — they gave me a leg up on my own macros, and I'll be able to refer to them long after I remember the exact details of this course. Thank you, David, for a premium learning experience. I highly recommend this field guide.
Oct 24, 2023
Fred S Frawley
Favorite. Down to earth, great learning.
Oct 29, 2023
Tomás Howlin
Indispensable ⚙️ David's videos have been a blessing for me. I LOVE and need these wizardly-looking-productivity-tools but have little time to learn how to use them. The Filed Guides get me to what I need in no time. Recommended 🙌
Oct 29, 2023
Bob Cassidy
MacSparky Field Guides are amazing. As an IT professional with over 40 years of experience, I learn more from the Field Guides than any other source, hands down! The combination of text and video, along with the excellent organization of the content is not only excellent for tutorial use, but also as a useful reference. I highly recommend the Field Guides even if you just have a passing interest in whatever area the guide covers.
Oct 30, 2023
Nik Thierry
The Keyboard Maestro tutorials got me from feeling overwhelmed by a complex piece of software, to feeling professional with it. This great set of videos that have changed how I use my Mac.
Oct 30, 2023
Nick Wagner
The MacSparky Field Guides are indispensable tools for getting the most out of new apps and technologies. David Sparks is a master explainer. His field guides are clear and concise, and his skilled use of video makes them easy to follow. Each field guide is suitable for a wide range of viewer expertise, starting from the basics and going on to offer valuable guidance for more experienced users. I look forward to every new field guide that comes out.
Oct 30, 2023
Lee A Garrett
Eric Bowers
Matthew
David is the Bob Ross of technology; calming, enjoyable and instructive, I have learnt an unquantifiable amount from him and his Field Guides. The Field Guides are all excellent (I should know, I think I have purchased them all) and just keep getting better and better. The stand-outs for me are the DEVONthink and the Obsidian ones. The production values are just so good. Each step (from installation to advanced use) is explained in clear terms, with demonstrations. Both DEVONthink and Obsidian are huge programmes and complex pieces of software. David's structured approach to each of them meant that I was taken by my digital hand and led through the complexities of the software. By the end, I felt better to tackle using them both and felt more productive as a result. David's Field Guides aren't cheap, but they are some of the best value products I've ever purchased. My only criticism: I wish there were more of them and they covered every piece of software I used. Many thanks to David.
Oct 8, 2023
Ranny Welton
I have spent a lot of time and effort getting a handle on Obsidian, following excellent instructors. Although Nick and Mike's materials are excellent, MacSparky's Obsidian Field Guide really takes it to a different level of understanding. He really explains completely the various segments which helps the understanding of the overall use cases of others. Highly recommend!! As a matter of fact, I have taken several of the field guides and would have the same recommendation for all.
Oct 10, 2023
Jeff Freeze
MacSparky's Field Guides have taught me so much about Shortcuts, Drafts, Paperless workflows, and other topics. Shortcuts is my favorite course. I love that it gives a full spectrum of knowledge. The courses take the student from Beginner to Power User and you can certainly decide for yourself where you want to end your knowledge journey along that spectrum. The courses allow me to easily go back over subject matter I didn't grasp the first time through. Also, compared to other learning platforms, mainly YouTube for me, Sparky's Field Guides give structure to my learning. I am not hopping around various videos trying to piece together the information I am attempting to learn. If Sparky has a Field Guide on the subject it is a well organized and structured way to learn a lot about that topic. I highly recommend buying Sparky's Field Guides if there is subject matter that covers an area you would like to learn a lot more about. I bought the Obsidian Field Guide to support MacSparky even though I doubt Obsidian will ever fit into my personal workflow. I just wanted to support his efforts at creating great courses. That is how much I value MacSparky's Field Guides. I buy them even if it isn't a subject I am likely to use because I want him to keep making the great guides.
Oct 16, 2023
Michael G.
The Obsidian Field Guide is all that I had hoped for and then some. It lays out a clear, executable path to become an Obsidian power user regardless of where on the knowledge spectrum one starts. What makes the Obsidian Field Guide stand out in this space is its creator. David Sparks is above all a gifted teacher and communicator. He understands how to teach others and communicate clearly what he knows. He simplifies Obsidian, a complex and powerful program, providing a path to use it productively from the first day while also laying out a path to become a power user in a short period of time.
Aug 30, 2023
Anonymous
This is the third training program I’ve tried, and the only one making concepts stick. I am a professional educator, and MacSparky is among the master educators I’ve encountered in any subject domain.
Sep 13, 2023
Örjan Lindahl
Time is my most valuable asset - a MacSparky field guide allows me to become proficient with a tool in a comparably *very* short time - on top of that, I get strategy advice, wisdom on best practices for utilising the tool in the longer perspective - I highly recommend them (I have 3) - I highly recommend revisiting the field guide again some months later, when the deeper aspects of what David teaches can be absorbed
Oct 3, 2023
Marilyn R.
I knew Obsidian was powerful and tried repeatedly to learn it myself. Finally, after finishing this course, I get Obsidian.
Oct 3, 2023
Alan O.
Obsidian is the crown jewel of the Field Guides.
Oct 3, 2023
Chris B.
This guide will provide you with everything you could possibly ever need to go paperless with Apple tech. This is one of those rare courses that can pay for itself a hundred times over, provided you follow the advice inside. David knocked this one out of the park.
Oct 3, 2023
Tom M.
As a DEVONThink user for over 10 years and having built a personal database containing over 30,000 items, I would consider myself a reasonably sophisticated user of the app. However, buying David Sparks’ Field Guide was like being given an intricately detailed map and a high-beam flashlight to take with me on the journey into the wilderness that DEVONThink, with its overwhelming array of features, can sometimes be.
Oct 3, 2023
Christoph
I am only about halfway through and I can’t believe with how much detail and care MacSparky has laid out and delivered this guide. There are numerous examples for all kinds of apps and situations. The guide is easy to follow and without this guide I would have never been able to fully discover and enjoy the capabilities of shortcuts.
Oct 3, 2023
Charlie Uniman
The Obsidian Field Guide (Plus edition) is, in one word, superb. Obsidian is a difficult app to teach because it’s an app that can do so many different things in so many different ways. So, I marvel at how well David Sparks architected the course to be both comprehensive and clear. I thought I knew Obsidian pretty well after a year or so of using it, but David taught me a lot I didn’t know (both big things — getting a better handle on the Dataview plugin— and small things — I didn’t know about the setting that listed all backlinks to a note at the bottom of that note). I can’t thank David enough for making my everyday use of Obsidian so much better.
Oct 3, 2023
James S.
Macsparky has done it again, taking what could be an overwhelming app for newcomers and breaking it down into easy to follow pieces. Even the Obsidian power user has something here they can take away too. Bravo Sir! You really can’t go wrong with a Macsparky Field Guide, if you want to understand an app from the nuts and bolts right up to making it sing and dance then this is for you.
Sep 11, 2023
Kourosh Dini
If you are at all interested in figuring out how to get your notes to work well for you, Obsidian is a solid tool. And David Sparks’ Field Guide can take you from knowing nothing about Obsidian to being able to easily organize your notes and developing your ideas. As always, he presents things clearly where you could either learn one step at a time or surgically dive in to learn exactly the topics you want. Whether you’re a beginner or seasoned veteran, David gives you a fresh take on using Obsidian well."
Sep 8, 2023