What is Zettelkasten?
Zettelkasten (German for "slip box") is a knowledge management system practiced by German sociologist Niklas Luhmann for over 40 years. He recorded individual ideas on more than 90,000 cards, connected by links — producing over 70 books and 400 academic papers with this method.
Zettelkasten is a note-taking method where each card contains exactly one idea, connected to other cards via reference numbers (links). It uses three note types: Fleeting Notes for instant idea capture, Literature Notes for book/article summaries in your own words, and Permanent Notes for fully developed ideas linked to other notes. This structure builds a "thinking tool" knowledge base rather than a passive note archive.
Three Types of Zettelkasten Notes
Email Memo + Zettelkasten Workflow
Simple Memo is the fastest tool for creating Zettelkasten "Fleeting Notes." When an idea strikes, launch the app in 0.4 seconds and send with one tap. Later, during email processing, promote promising memos to Literature Notes or Permanent Notes using tools like Obsidian, Notion, or physical cards. Capture speed determines the quality and quantity of fleeting notes, making this zero-friction approach critical.
FAQ: Zettelkasten
What is Zettelkasten?
A knowledge management system by Niklas Luhmann, practiced for over 40 years. One idea per card, connected via links. Over 90,000 cards produced 70+ books and 400+ papers.
What are the three types of Zettelkasten notes?
Fleeting Notes (quick captures), Literature Notes (book/article summaries in your own words), and Permanent Notes (fully developed ideas linked to other notes). Fleeting notes should be processed within 24-48 hours.
Can I practice Zettelkasten with Simple Memo?
Simple Memo excels at creating Fleeting Notes. Capture ideas in 0.4 seconds, then promote to Permanent Notes later in Obsidian or Notion.
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