Zettelkasten Note Types
In the zettelkasten method, information is filtered through three distinct stages of refinement to ensure only high-value, atomic ideas enter the permanent knowledge base.
1. Fleeting Notes
Temporary captures of ideas or reminders. These are "brain dumps" that should be processed or discarded within 24-48 hours. They serve as a capture buffer.
2. Literature Notes
Summaries of external content (books, articles, videos) written in your own words. These include bibliographic data and are the bridge between raw input and original thought.
3. Permanent Notes
The "gold" of the system. These are refined, atomic ideas derived from literature notes. Every permanent note must be:
- Atomic: One idea per note.
- Interlinked: Connected to existing notes in the system.
- Self-Contained: Understandable without the original context.