Mastering Note-Taking and Linking in Obsidian: A Complete Guide

Introduction

In a previous one of my Blog, I highlighted Issues with Note-Taking. A proper guide of how I do was wanting. So here it is:

Taking effective notes can be challenging, especially when it comes to organizing and linking information for long-term learning. Over time, I’ve realized that traditional note-taking methods often fall short, leaving us with a false sense of understanding. This blog post explores a new approach to note-taking, focusing on active recall, atomic notes, and using tools like Obsidian to create a connected knowledge base.

I use Obsidian as my Primary Note Taking tool. This is perfect for storing, linking and long term usage of Notes.

The Problem with Traditional Note-Taking

1. The Illusion of Learning

  • Traditional Notes: Often, we take notes while learning, believing that writing things down means we’ve understood them.
  • Reality Check: In truth, this passive approach can create a false sense of mastery. The information goes in but is rarely revisited or retained.

2. Information Dumping vs. True Learning

  • Many people use tools like Obsidian or Notion to build second brains or knowledge bases. But simply dumping information doesn’t translate into actual learning.
  • Active engagement, such as recalling information without looking at your notes, is key to solidifying knowledge.

A New Approach: Active Recall and Linking Ideas

1. Active Recall for True Learning

  • After learning a topic, instead of passively taking notes, test yourself on what you remember.
  • Use spaced repetition by revisiting notes after a day, a week, or even a month.
  • This method aligns with neuroplasticity principles, as discussed by experts like Andrew Huberman.

2. Taking Rough Notes and Creating Atomic Notes

  • Start with rough notes during active recall sessions. Write down whatever you remember without worrying about structure.

  • Convert these rough notes into atomic notes: small, self-contained notes focusing on a single idea or concept.

    Example:

    • Rough Note: “Learned about the su command while cracking passwords.”
    • Atomic Notes:
      • Cracking Passwords: Briefly explain methods and tools.
      • su Command: Details on how to use su for privilege escalation.

Organizing and Linking Notes in Obsidian

1. Choosing the Right Note Structure

  • If you already have a note titled Cracking Passwords, you can:
    • Create a new note for the su command and link it to the Cracking Passwords note.
    • Alternatively, add the su command section within the existing note and link to other related concepts.

2. The Art of Linking Notes

  • Linking is where the Zettelkasten method shines. It’s all about creating meaningful connections between your notes.

    How to Link Notes:

    • Use [[Note Name]] to create backlinks.
    • You don’t need to overthink linking every related note. Focus on links that add value and context.
    • For instance, in Cracking Passwords, you can link to [[su Command]] only if it enriches the content.

    Pro Tip: If two notes are related, you can create backlinks in both directions, but only if it aids navigation.

3. Utilizing Tags for Efficient Organization

Tags are an excellent way to categorize and access your notes. But should you use broad tags like #computer-security or more specific ones like #password-cracking?

A. Tags as Entry Points

  • General Tags: Use broader tags like #security for high-level categories.
  • Specific Tags: Use tags like #passwords or #su-command for finer categorization.
  • Tags can serve as an entry point to pull up all related notes quickly, especially if you’re working on a project or topic.

B. Using Tags for Workflow

  • Project Tags: #project/pen-testing
  • Topic Tags: #security/passwords
  • Workflow Tags: #todo, #review, #draft

Example:

  • Instead of maintaining a long Todo list, tag specific notes with #todo. Each task is context-rich and tied to the note it belongs to.

C. Nested Tags in Obsidian

  • Obsidian treats nested tags like #security/passwords as a single tag.
    • Searching for #security pulls up everything under that umbrella.
    • To target specifically, use #security/passwords.

Handling Hashtags in Text Without Creating Tags

Sometimes, your notes might include hashtags that aren’t intended to be tags. Here’s how to prevent Obsidian from treating them as such:

1. Use Inline Code or Code Blocks

The command is `#notatag`.

2. Use Escape Characters

Here’s some text about the \#su command.

3. Quotes or Brackets

"This is not a tag: #example" [Reference to #hashtag]

4. Special Note for YAML Frontmatter

If you use YAML frontmatter, tags specified there won’t conflict with in-text hashtags.

Conclusion

Mastering note-taking isn’t just about collecting information; it’s about engaging deeply with the content, creating meaningful links, and organizing it in a way that serves your long-term learning goals. By using active recall, atomic notes, and a thoughtful tagging strategy, you can turn your notes into a powerful tool for retention and understanding.