Zettelkasten Method as a Way to Manage Your Notes

To get a better understanding of Zettelkasten we’ll have to take a deeper diver into its underlying principles:

1. Interconnected ideas. Notes are linked to one another, which creates a web of connected concepts and reflects how ideas relate to each other.
2. Individual understanding. Notes are written in your own words, which encourages personal engagement and deeper comprehension of the topic.
3. Atomicity. Each "Zettel" contains only one idea or concept, which makes it a self-contained unit that can be understood, studied and reviewed independently.

We'll look at Zettelkasten from a digital perspective, as that's the predominant one today. There are various apps that have features that make it easier to create links and notes, and we'll touch on that topic later. Just keep in mind that Zettelkasten is not just about tools. All you need is a willingness to think more creatively and make connections between your ideas.

Let's take a look at five simple steps to help you start using the Zettelkasten method.

There are many options, including programs such as Roam Research, Obsidian, and Zettler. Many of these tools have features designed specifically for the Zettelkasten system. Such Zettelkasten software makes it extremely easy to create and link notes.

As we already mentioned, each note or "Zettel" is meant to contain only one specific idea or thought. Start writing your notes with this principle in mind. For instance, if you're studying a complex topic like climate change, you could create a separate note for each aspect, such as the causes, effects, or potential solutions.

While using Zettelkasten method, connecting your notes is as important as writing them. With the software you've chosen you can create hyperlinks between related notes. Example: you might link a note about the causes of climate change to a note about its effects.

As your collection of notes grows, organizing them becomes crucial. Most digital Zettelkasten tools offer features like tags, folders, or categories to help you keep your notes tidy. Use these to group related notes together or to quickly find a specific topic.

The real power of the Zettelkasten method comes with regular use. We recommend you to set aside some specific time to consistently add new notes, review existing ones, and explore the connections between them.