Show HN: I created a minimalist notes app with a built-in Excalidraw editor

[rita__]

https://jotnoted.com/

Hey HN,

I like to draw little sketches to remember and process information, like mind maps or app architectures. I'm also tired of note-taking apps being cluttered with features I don't use.

So, I came up with the idea to combine drawing and writing notes together, wrapped in a minimalistic UI. Apart from Excalidraw sketches, it’s just notes, folders, formatting, and sharing.

What do you think about that? If you like the idea, please let me know what would make you consider using it. If you don't, why?

[wonger_]

I like the idea of simple sketches alongside plaintext notes, without any other features.

- what's the data format? Is it exportable?

- is there a demo I can try without signing up?

- have you tried sketching mind maps and architectures on paper? Personally, I think paper always beats whiteboard software. But a low-friction sketchpad, embedded right next to text notes, seems like the right formula. Especially for mobile.

[rita__ → wonger_]

Thanks! I've created a demo page: https://jotnoted.com/demo. The sketches can be exported from the editor as PNG files, and I also save the data in both SVG and JSON formats. The JSON data is compatible with Excalidraw, and the SVG is just standard SVG.

For the MVP, it's possible to export to PNG in the editor, and notes can be shared via a public link. Which export format would you like to see? I was thinking of adding an option to export notes to PDF.

[breck]

My review (harsh, abrupt ending, sorry!): https://www.loom.com/share/d2e07ec8bdf84cbfb160e840ed1e9702?...

[rita__ → breck]

Oh that's a good point, I lost you on sign up. I created a demo page and also added link to the landing. Now you can try without signing up https://jotnoted.com/demo

[breck → rita__]

Well done!

https://www.loom.com/share/fff20c3413c24186952c4fa120347569?...

[rita__ → breck]

Thanks for the video! That was insightful. I already see a couple of fixes I need to make

[siamese_puff → rita__]

Haha I love these review videos