Zettelkasten Method

The Zettelkasten (German for "slip box") is a note-taking system developed by sociologist Niklas Luhmann. He wrote over 70 books and 400 articles using this method.

Core Principles

1. Atomic notes — one idea per note
2. Unique IDs — every note has a permanent address
3. Bidirectional links — notes link to each other meaningfully
4. Your own words — always rewrite in your own language

The Two Types of Notes

• Fleeting notes — quick captures, ideas in the moment
• Permanent notes — processed, atomic, linked to the web of knowledge

Connection to Digital Gardens

The digital garden concept is deeply inspired by Zettelkasten. Instead of a linear blog, you build a network of interconnected ideas.

See also: How I Take Notes, Obsidian Workflow