Stickylets - Desktop Sticky Notes Application

A desktop sticky notes application inspired by Windows sticky notes, built entirely with Java Swing and MySQL. This project represents a significant personal milestone - the first truly fulfilling application built from scratch during the pre-AI era.

Project Overview

Stickylets was developed as a desktop alternative to Windows sticky notes, providing enhanced functionality and persistent storage. The application demonstrates core software engineering principles using traditional Java technologies and database connectivity.

Key Features

• Sticky Notes Interface: Desktop sticky notes similar to Windows built-in app
• Persistent Storage: MySQL database for reliable note storage and retrieval
• Search Functionality: Find notes quickly with integrated search capabilities
• Markdown Support: Simple markdown parser and handler for rich text formatting
• JDBC Integration: Direct database connectivity using Java Database Connectivity
• Desktop Native: Built with Java Swing for native desktop experience

Technologies Used

• Language: Java
• GUI Framework: Java Swing
• Database: MySQL
• Connectivity: JDBC (Java Database Connectivity)
• Text Processing: Custom markdown parser implementation

Technical Implementation

Database Integration

• Direct JDBC connections for database operations
• Custom SQL queries for CRUD operations
• Efficient data retrieval and storage mechanisms

User Interface

• Java Swing components for native desktop feel
• Custom UI elements mimicking sticky note appearance
• Responsive layout management

Markdown Processing

• Built-in markdown parser for text formatting
• Support for common markdown syntax
• Real-time preview and rendering

Personal Significance

This project holds special significance as the first application that felt truly fulfilling to build. Developed during the pre-AI era, it represents pure problem-solving and programming fundamentals - connecting databases, building user interfaces, and implementing features from scratch using core Java technologies.

Learning Outcomes

Building Stickylets provided foundational experience in:

• Desktop application development with Java Swing
• Database design and JDBC connectivity
• Text parsing and processing algorithms
• Event-driven programming patterns
• Software architecture and design decisions

The project established core programming confidence and demonstrated the satisfaction of building complete, functional software solutions.

GitHub Repository

View the complete source code: https://github.com/Eganathan/Stickylets

Demo Video

Watch the application in action: