May 19, 2010

How to build a reading stand [pics]

I have whined before about the lack of options for standing desks, so I took matters into my own hands and built an incredibly sophisticated piece of furniture myself. Here's how to do it:

1. Bring down two folding thingy-majigs from your attic or closet.
2. Unfold and stand one on top of the other.

Ta Da.




Ideal for people 6 feet and 2 inches tall who do not mind guests giving you funny looks and asking huh?

And, miraculously, it has not toppled over in the ~5 months I have been using it.

Things you'll need:

Book.
Spare books. For when you feel your interest subsiding.
Two thingy-majigs.
Book holder. Very useful, very often.
Bookmarkers. I use receipts and business cards.
Coaster. So as not to stain the thingy-majigs.
Notebook & pen. In fact, you should have this with you at all times.
Watch. It's good to know how long you spend on things. Time how long the first chapter takes you to read, multiply by the number of chapters, and ask if it's likely to be worth your time. A 200 page book takes me on average 7-8 hours to read. The watch serves as my nudge to be willing to put less-than-worthwhile books down.