Obsidian
Build a small linked notebook in Obsidian
A note-taking app that works on a folder of plain Markdown files on your computer. Good for connecting ideas across projects, courses and reading.
Written from the tool's official pages, listed under Official sources at the end of this guide. Check them for current features, limits and terms.
Try it (opens in a new tab)Steps to try
- Install Obsidian from the official website and create a new vault, which is simply a folder for your notes.
- Make one note per idea, meeting or source, with a clear title.
- Link notes by typing double square brackets around another note's title. Link only where the connection helps you.
- Create one index note per project that links to the main notes for it.
- Start without plugins. Add one only when you hit a real problem, and read what access it asks for.
- Back up the vault folder regularly using a method you control.
Limitations
Over-organising is a common trap, so keep the structure simple. Collaboration and mobile syncing need extra setup. Plugins are community-made and vary in quality.
Pricing
Pricing for the app and optional services such as sync and publishing can change. Check the official website for current terms, including terms for commercial use.
Privacy and data
The official page says notes are stored locally as plain Markdown files. Sync services, plugins and backups you add can change where the data goes, so review each one.
About the sources
Based on the official page, which describes local Markdown storage, linking and plugins. Confirm plugin behaviour in the official documentation.
Alternatives
Any folder of text files works. Other note apps trade local control for built-in collaboration.
Official sources
The official pages this guide was written from. Read them for current features, limits and terms.