[chriskjennings]

I've been using a similar system for awhile now. The offline approach is extremely effective, however, I find it even more effective when combined with ideas from The Pomodoro Technique.

I have the same type of weekly planner (the author calls it a To-do planner) and a sticky note on my desk for the day that lists 3 to-do items. I draw a series of squares beneath each item.

The Pomodoro Technique simply recommends focusing on a single for 25 minutes, followed by a 5 minute break. The squares I draw below my to-do items represent the number of 25 minute intervals I anticipate the task to take. I cross them off each time my timer rings. If I underestimate the intervals of a task, I add a circle for each unexpected interval. This allows me to see patterns in my planning and works as a mechanic to finish things as scheduled.

Once the day is over, I remove the sticky note from my desk and "archive" it by re-sticking it on that day in my planner.