Step-by-Step Zettelkasten for Notion App (+Free Zettelkasten Template!)

Hello, my dear readers!

I apologize for my absence from the blog over the past months. It has been an exciting and challenging time for me as I was in the final stages of completing my Bachelor of Divinity program, a goal I have been working towards for years. On top of that, I had been preparing for language exams for the B2 level for my Spanish and Greek. Today, I am thrilled to say I have completed these milestones! Thank you for being such amazing readers and for your patience during this transition. I am excited to return to creating content you will love and find valuable.

During my recent studies and language exam preparations, I struggled to retain the vast amount of information I was taking in. Fortunately, I discovered the Zettelkasten method, which I implemented using the Notion app. The Zettelkasten method is one such system that has gained popularity in recent years, and in this blog post, I want to share with you some of the benefits of the Zettelkasten method and how the free Notion app can be used to implement it.

Without further ado, let us hop into the reading!

The Zettelkasten Method

The Zettelkasten method is a knowledge management system that enables individuals to create, share, use, and manage knowledge and information effectively (Arcenas, 2021). The founder of this method, Niklas Luhmann, developed a paper-based system to categorize and file the information he read and collected. His system involves using a note box consisting of index cards that allow for an organized filing system of like-minded notes, just like in the illustration below.

Zettelkasten's method provided me with a structured approach to organizing and storing the information I was learning, enabling me to connect ideas and improve my memory and knowledge retention. With the help of the Zettelkasten method, I could effectively manage the overwhelming amount of data I was receiving and achieve my academic goals. However, unlike Luhmann, I build my Zettelkasten in my Notion.

Notion X Zettelkasten

The fundamental principle of the Zettelkasten method is atomicity, which means breaking down more significant concepts into smaller, more manageable pieces (Arcenas, 2021). Doing so can create a more precise and structured understanding of the information. In the digital age, many options are available, but one of the most popular is the Notion app. Notion app is a versatile space that can be customized to suit our needs and allows us to create databases, pages, and templates that can be easily linked and cross-referenced (Adams, 2021).

The principle of atomicity is an essential aspect of the Zettelkasten method as it recommends grouping things that belong to the same topic to create a clear structure (Arcenas, 2021). Using Notion to implement the Zettelkasten method has several advantages. The digital format of Notion allows for easy editing and updating and the ability to access your notes from anywhere with an internet connection (Butler, 2022). In addition, toggle, tags, and cross-referencing in Notion can help link related topics together and connect different ideas (Adams, 2021). Here is how I make my notes:

I started with a blank page. Then I choose Table. Then, I head to the New database.

After that, I arrange the headings for my note.

If you struggle with organization, note-taking can be a game-changer for productivity. Adams (2021) introduces us to his "slip box" note-taking method, which involves categorizing notes as either fleeting, literature, or permanent and organizing them with tags and titles for easy reference. Adams (2021) also includes a map of content, question section, and workflow status to help keep notes on the track. By adopting a structured approach like the slip box method, you can make sure that your notes are always organized and easily accessible when you need them. Here is how I implement Adams' (2021) tips in my Notion. This one is in Table mode.

We can adjust the view as well; I personally find Gallery mode easier on the eyes.

Notion Extension: Web Clipper

To effectively implement the Zettelkasten method using the Notion app, it is essential to have a streamlined process for capturing and storing information. One way that Butler (2022) suggested to make this process quick and efficient is to install the Notion web clipper. The Notion web clipper streamlines information capture, making maintaining a sustainable knowledge management system easier. By doing so, we can spend less time searching for information and more time making connections and insights between our notes!

Do You Want a Free Template?

In conclusion, the Zettelkasten method is an effective knowledge management system that helps store, organize, and connect knowledge while improving memory and retention. Its index cards and tagging systems allow for easy cross-referencing between topics and provide a clear structure for storing notes effectively. So, why not give it a go? If you want to try, copy the template I made here.

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References

Adams, M. (2021). Master a Zettelkasten note-taking workflow in Notion from scratch [Video]. In YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dbdgMuBplW0

‌Arcenas, J. (2021, April 29). A beginner’s guide to the Zettelkasten method. Zenkit. https://zenkit.com/en/blog/a-beginners-guide-to-the-zettelkasten-method/

‌Butler, E. (2022, July 26). How to build a Zettelkasten in Notion. Elizabeth Butler. https://elizabethbutlermd.com/zettelkasten-notion/

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