I started using org-mode for text-based notes/todos recently, even though I wasn't an Emacs user.[1] Org-mode has its own website, and more well-documented features than most programs I use! ( http://orgmode.org/ , manual http://orgmode.org/manual/ )
[1] It's an Emacs mode. I'm using it happily without knowing much Emacs.
Agree, Org documentation is very good, and easy for newbies to start as well. Certain features like Org-agenda, export into multiple formats and its ease of note-taking are very good features
[1] It's an Emacs mode. I'm using it happily without knowing much Emacs.