Building StickyShell: A Desktop Sticky Note That Runs Shell Commands

Description and use

StickyShell lets developers write and run shell commands directly from a sticky note, cutting down context switching.

Problem

Developers juggle terminal commands, curl one‑liners, Docker snippets, and diagnostic scripts across many tabs, files, and sticky notes, making quick execution cumbersome.

Outcome

StickyShell enables developers to write, format, and execute shell commands directly from a sticky note, reducing context switching and improving productivity.

Workflow

• Install StickyShell via winget or download cross‑platform binaries.
• Create a new sticky note and type a shell command.
• Press Ctrl+Enter to run the command inline; output appears in a drawer with a copy button.
• Press Ctrl+Shift+Enter to open an interactive terminal for complex workflows.
• Use Ctrl+Z to recover accidentally deleted notes.
• Write formatted text, checklists, or LaTeX formulas; they render instantly.
• Save notes locally in JSON files; no telemetry or accounts are required.

Evidence

I built StickyShell Home — a lightweight cross‑platform desktop sticky note that doubles as an instant executable shell scratchpad.

Source

Inline Capture Mode (Ctrl + Enter): Runs the command in the background and renders stdout and stderr directly into a slide‑out drawer with a 1‑click copy button.

Source