Why Choose Obsidian for Deeper Learning?

Unlike traditional word processors like Word or Google Docs, Obsidian allows you to create notes on sub-topics within a main idea. These “atomic notes” are interconnected and can be referenced with a simple click. They function similarly to hyperlinks in articles or blog posts, leading you to more detailed information.

Atomic notes are concise, focused notes that express concepts in your own words, rather than copying text from other sources. In Obsidian, you can create links to more comprehensive notes on sub-topics, and these links work both ways—allowing you to navigate back and forth easily.

For instance, if you’re interested in how to allocate funds in an investment portfolio, you might have encountered relevant information in a book or article. You can distill the essential points into a high-level note or a question list in Obsidian.

Here’s an example of a summary note you might create, highlighting the differences between passive and active investing:

Passive investing through mutual funds or ETFs tends to outperform active investing over extended periods. This suggests that investing in diversified options like the S&P 500 index and a broad Bond Fund is often more advantageous.

Notice how you can delve into key terms from this summary. Each term can have its own note, allowing for a more nuanced understanding. You can embed links within your summary to these detailed notes, facilitating easy navigation.

For example, you could expand on topics like:

• ETFs: What they are, the companies that offer them, and the investment styles they represent.
• Passive Investing: An overview of passive strategies and why they are often seen as more effective than active investing.
• Active Investing: Exploring the concept and its perceived limitations compared to passive methods.

I have utilized this method while exploring Cryptocurrencies. Below are snapshots illustrating how it works.

You can observe the green links—these are two-way connections to related atomic notes.

The note below corresponds to the link “What is cryptocurrency (Bitcoin or Ethereum).” Clicking on this green hyperlink leads you to the following detailed note:

I’ve only displayed a portion of the note for brevity, but this illustrates the power of Obsidian in linking high-level thoughts to detailed concepts.

By now, it should be evident how straightforward it is to explore various sub-topics. This is crucial for achieving a deeper understanding of any subject matter.

Another Approach: Creating a Question List

I often compile a list of questions linked to their answers, formatted as atomic notes. For example:

Here’s the linked note for “What is a Crypto Wallet?” Clicking on the hyperlink leads you to the corresponding atomic note.

The “backlinks” are visible on the right side. The highlighted link allows you to return to the original question list titled “Crypto Notes for Library,” which I prepared for a presentation at my local library.

How Can Obsidian Benefit Writers?

By now, it should be clear how effective focused sub-notes can be for learning new subjects. Writing these notes in your own words compels you to sift through the key takeaways, enhancing your understanding as you compose. This method is far more effective than merely reading and copying text.

So, how does this aid your writing?

In essence, each sub-topic can serve as a foundation for new articles. Using the examples from Cryptocurrency and Digital Wallets, you could create at least two articles: one titled “What is Cryptocurrency?” and another called “What are Crypto Wallets and How Do They Work?”

You can replicate this approach across various sub-topics to generate multiple articles from a single overarching topic.

The advantages of utilizing a note-taking system like Obsidian for learning and developing ideas for your writing are substantial.

I hope you find this article helpful. Please share your thoughts or experiences with Obsidian in the comments. If you enjoy my writing, consider joining Medium or subscribing to my email list.

Getting Started with Obsidian

I do not receive any compensation for the links below; my goal is to assist you in getting started.

1. Download and Install Obsidian
2. Create your first file (known as a “Vault”)
3. Begin writing (take notes, start linking, etc.)
4. Enjoy reading on Medium? Consider a reading membership for full access.

Watch Eleanor Konik discuss how to transform your notes into published articles and books using the Obsidian app in this insightful video.

Explore Robert Greene and Ryan Holiday's note-taking strategies with Obsidian in this engaging video.