The Zettelkasten Method
A Zettelkasten is a non-hierarchical, interconnected network of atomic notes. Rather than organizing knowledge into rigid folders or categories, ideas are connected through links — allowing unexpected connections to emerge organically.
The method uses three core note types:
- Fleeting notes — quick captures of raw thoughts, to be processed later
- Literature notes — ideas extracted from sources, written in your own words
- Permanent notes — refined atomic ideas that stand on their own
The power comes from linking: each permanent note connects to many others, forming a web of knowledge that grows more valuable over time.