Is The Zettelkasten Method Really The Best Personal Knowledge Management System?

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  • Опубліковано 5 січ 2025

КОМЕНТАРІ • 105

  • @AnthonyMetivierMMM
    @AnthonyMetivierMMM  Рік тому +11

    Love the idea of using the Zettelkasten Method? Combine it with these advanced spaced repetition tactics: ua-cam.com/video/2CthE_Napjg/v-deo.html

  • @thomasmandel2815
    @thomasmandel2815 Рік тому +6

    I've been working on the best way to organize my thoughts for a long time. Of course, the "Zettelkasten" is an integral part of this. Alongside Söhnke Ahrens' book, this video is the most inspiring thing I've found on the internet so far. Thank you! It's a must-see.

  • @jasoncotton9804
    @jasoncotton9804 Рік тому +9

    Thanks for more great content! I definitely agree with 0:29 about the benefits of Zk, but one thing that came as a reflection for me after spending more time with it was that the "core thing" in Zk may be a bit elusive. It may sound weird, but I really think Zk(as we know it) is a container for a workflow for a specific end. Thus why changing it can be highly beneficial depending on the result you are trying to attain. In Luhmann's case it was scholarly content creation (with everything being done from the very start for that purpose). For yours it's memorizing and thus the modifications make sense. What I'm trying to say is that without that piece (the end result and optimization for it), it's easy for people to get lost in it. Especially if they don't know how to optimize for their outcome. You may even need multiple styles of Zk depending on what you're using them for. That's why I don't really think it's a knowledge management system at the core (you didn't say it was, just mentioning in context).
    That's at least what I extracted from Ahrens book and Luhmann's essay on conversations with it. Are you aware of any other resources you felt were worth exploring? Curious your thoughts.

    • @AnthonyMetivierMMM
      @AnthonyMetivierMMM  Рік тому +3

      I think you've made a fair assessment, though I can't imagine any technique or process that some people won't get lost in. That's why it's often said that some people need to stop tinkering with the map so they can spend more time being the destination.
      In terms of other techniques, I'll be releasing a video on a powerful variation on Zettelkasten next week. Here's where to set a reminder for be notified when it goes live:
      ua-cam.com/video/Y63eE3GjWyg/v-deo.html

  • @springfield6364
    @springfield6364 8 днів тому +1

    Thanks! This video was one of my favorites. I liked the discussion about motivation along with info about the technique.

  • @WilliamBaranowski
    @WilliamBaranowski 4 місяці тому +2

    What a beautiful video! Thank you, so much! Will be back for MORE!

    • @AnthonyMetivierMMM
      @AnthonyMetivierMMM  4 місяці тому

      Thanks so much. Anything else you’d like to see covered?

  • @fayashussain3031
    @fayashussain3031 11 місяців тому +2

    Helpful content.
    my note taking is completely on a graph book.. problem with that is revisiting the notes repeatedly, as its very difficult to reach to older notes and read it. this technique solves most of it..

    • @AnthonyMetivierMMM
      @AnthonyMetivierMMM  11 місяців тому +2

      I also find revisiting notes in notebooks time-consuming and difficult. Just one more reason I love this technique.

  • @Davlavi
    @Davlavi Рік тому +4

    Learned something new never heard of Zettelkasten method before.

  • @SimGunther
    @SimGunther 6 місяців тому +3

    I saw another person with their knowledge system that was just:
    1. A box
    2. Vanilla folders labeled by topic/utility (number system included)
    3. Big binder clamps to close the folders so loose paper wouldn't get lost
    That was life changing and I'm hoping this helps everyone else too ❤

    • @AnthonyMetivierMMM
      @AnthonyMetivierMMM  6 місяців тому +3

      Sounds like a different system I use for different purposes. I'll have to make a video about it sometime.

  • @vwatts8738
    @vwatts8738 Рік тому +4

    What a great find you are! New subscriber

    • @AnthonyMetivierMMM
      @AnthonyMetivierMMM  Рік тому +1

      Thanks for joining us.
      Any particular topics you're studying or want to remember better at the moment?

    • @justdoeverything8883
      @justdoeverything8883 9 місяців тому

      Same here! I was really interested about memory mastery techniques used for language learning, and Anthony has the most content (that I've found) on this topic.

  • @jaspermcfly2765
    @jaspermcfly2765 Рік тому +1

    Thanks!

    • @AnthonyMetivierMMM
      @AnthonyMetivierMMM  Рік тому +1

      Thanks so much for supporting the channel!
      Anything you'd like to see covered in future videos?

  • @austing6149
    @austing6149 29 днів тому +1

    Really enjoying your content! Just curious, do you offer one to one sessions?

    • @AnthonyMetivierMMM
      @AnthonyMetivierMMM  28 днів тому +1

      Thanks for your question.
      I sometimes do if the circumstances warrant it.
      Please feel free to reach out via email to discuss further with some context and I'll get back to you with some thoughts.

  • @stumbling
    @stumbling Рік тому +8

    The horrible, creeping, paradoxical feeling that I should be taking notes on this video. O_O

  • @grumpent
    @grumpent Рік тому +7

    Yes this method is very effective for me personally. I use it with Notion and Anki combined with spaced repetition. Thanks for this video

    • @AnthonyMetivierMMM
      @AnthonyMetivierMMM  Рік тому +2

      Great that you’re benefitting from it!
      Any particular topics you’re studying at the moment?

    • @AnthonyMetivierMMM
      @AnthonyMetivierMMM  Рік тому +3

      There's a discussion I held with an Obsidian expert here if you're interested:
      ua-cam.com/video/AbGBktY3cmY/v-deo.html

    • @grumpent
      @grumpent Рік тому +3

      @@AnthonyMetivierMMM yes, for my bachelors, for Spanish, network engineering in Cisco and for the major system. It’s mind blowing how we can encode numbers with vowels and sound them out with phrases and be able to recall a good bit of numbers back.

    • @AnthonyMetivierMMM
      @AnthonyMetivierMMM  Рік тому +4

      Yes, I always feel astonished every time I use the techniques. They are amazing. The great thing is that you can also use number systems in language learning thanks to their bi-directional nature.

  • @penelopesmith7469
    @penelopesmith7469 4 місяці тому +2

    Carl Jung came up with a theory he called synchronicity, how things on a humble level fall into place. You read Doerr's Shell Collector and the next day ideas from that book come out of the wordwork in your own everyday life as in discovering that a resourceful neighbor is blind and the whole concept of blindness you realize is partly due to not 'seeing' the value of things. I go back and add what I have learned from the my own life to my thoughts on the story which seemed far fetched when I read it. We gain sight with these little ephiphanies. All the Light we Cannot See and often because we forget and do not think to catalog humble but important ideas.

    • @AnthonyMetivierMMM
      @AnthonyMetivierMMM  4 місяці тому

      Insight is to be had very often for those with eyes wide open, both externally and internally.

  • @matthewdavidjohnson2
    @matthewdavidjohnson2 Рік тому +5

    There’s so many techniques and ideas and methods, it’s inspiring and exciting, but also overwhelming. Where is the best place for a memory late bloomer to start?

    • @AnthonyMetivierMMM
      @AnthonyMetivierMMM  Рік тому +8

      Thanks for the question.
      I would suggest starting with the learning goal.
      Let me know if you have one. Usually the most optimal memory techniques are easy to suggest once that is known.
      If the desire is for overall memory improvement, I would suggest this is much more likely to happen by having a specific goal to get started with using some of the techniques. So it always comes back to goal formation first in the end.
      For more on crafting learning goals, please see:
      ua-cam.com/video/dPfW-pDyrmc/v-deo.html

  • @PangurBan-l1s
    @PangurBan-l1s 8 місяців тому +1

    I believe that a similar system was used at Bletchley Park to organise and cross check information.

    • @AnthonyMetivierMMM
      @AnthonyMetivierMMM  8 місяців тому +1

      I've also heard that the CIA used this to help them catch Aldrich Ames.

  • @superhiggs
    @superhiggs 2 місяці тому +1

    I recently read a critical review of Luhmann's work, he wrote a lot of books but because of the ZK they read like an idiosyncratic collection of sparse observations... a lot of people making extremely positive accounts of this method, but still no real-life account of its validity. Is it merely a fascination with small cards and boxes? Or the illusion that the hard work of studying and learning can be 'automatised' and less painful?

    • @AnthonyMetivierMMM
      @AnthonyMetivierMMM  2 місяці тому +1

      What would you consider a "real life account" that validates its use? Is my use of it for my PhD and over a dozen books, including novels (that people actually read and enjoy) not "real life"?
      Frankly, I am fascinated with cards. But it's possible to dislike all kinds of techniques and still have them work.
      Take a contrary example: I am not particularly fascinated by martial arts. But I have practiced one in order to enjoy the outcomes knowledge and basic self-defense skills and improved physical dexterity provide.

  • @Original_Lurke_fromthe_Unknown

    Anthony my friend of many years!!! I’m really looking forward to maybe using this technique at some point in the future. I hope you are well and everything is doing well for you. I may have another idea that I may share but that needs some thought. As I always say: …Stay Tuned…. Bill

    • @AnthonyMetivierMMM
      @AnthonyMetivierMMM  Рік тому +1

      Always great to hear from you, Bill!
      Shout out any time if you care to share your idea. Looking forward to it and likewise hope you're doing well.
      I'm working away on my Giordano Bruno book as we speak. It's challenging, but fun!

  • @rdcb1057
    @rdcb1057 4 місяці тому +1

    Great explanation !

    • @AnthonyMetivierMMM
      @AnthonyMetivierMMM  4 місяці тому

      Thanks for stopping by and commenting.
      Have you been using this technique for long yourself?

  • @sandymakesplans
    @sandymakesplans Рік тому +1

    0:06 i didn't know i could develop language icks, but i guess we learn something new everyday even if we're not trying to. 😢😮

    • @AnthonyMetivierMMM
      @AnthonyMetivierMMM  Рік тому +1

      What are "language icks"?

    • @sandymakesplans
      @sandymakesplans Рік тому +1

      @@AnthonyMetivierMMM look up "icks"

    • @AnthonyMetivierMMM
      @AnthonyMetivierMMM  Рік тому

      Ah, so you mean the German teacher telling me abut how to practice Z effectively auf Deutsch? That is indeed a bit icky.

  • @ElliotBrownJingles
    @ElliotBrownJingles Рік тому +3

    Awesome! I have just been given a new pair of shoes with a shoebox. I have also, this morning, bought 700 index cards ($10!). I had no idea you were in Aussie. Do you ever come to New Zealand to give seminars, etc?

    • @AnthonyMetivierMMM
      @AnthonyMetivierMMM  Рік тому +2

      The gift of new shoes has just been “Magnetically” expanded! 😀
      To do an event in NZ would be great. I would need help from an organizer or event manager to make it happen, though. So maybe one of these days.
      I definitely want to see NZ one of these days, but for live teaching, I really enjoy doing cohorts via Zoom. I’m doing 2-3 per year lately.
      Does that training style also suit you?

  • @mansooralam3544
    @mansooralam3544 Рік тому +2

    Can you make a video on how doctors memory work . How they remember words and medicine names . Thanks

    • @AnthonyMetivierMMM
      @AnthonyMetivierMMM  Рік тому +1

      Thank you for asking. Please see my medical mnemonics channel for many examples of that, including a podcast with a medical professional:
      www.youtube.com/@magneticmedicalmnemonics/featured

  • @mohamed-ci7gx
    @mohamed-ci7gx Рік тому +1

    How can I use mnemonics to memorize ASCII table? Too many of them are symbols and too many symbols don't even have pronunciation and I have to associate them with hex numbers and decimal numbers and as you can see there is too much abstraction in this table

    • @AnthonyMetivierMMM
      @AnthonyMetivierMMM  Рік тому +2

      If you have the full Magnetic Memory Method, you would combine Memory Palaces with your Magnetic Imagery and pay special attention to Recall Rehearsal in each column.
      The exact level of challenge will depend on your current level of skill and experience, but this kind of learning task is relatively straightforward. I wouldn't call it abstract at all, and for some people, it will be especially easy because the links are simply number and alphabet based, all perfectly aligned in columns.
      In what context would having this table memorized be useful for you?

    • @mohamed-ci7gx
      @mohamed-ci7gx Рік тому

      @@AnthonyMetivierMMM yes so true!!! Some basic association and mnemonics creation skills can be very useful!!
      I am trying to use it to memorize things related to math and computer programming. Also I think it can be used as a mind palace with 256 stage. And with some creativity I can use it for creating infinite list of infinite mind palace. The idea of this list is still a little bit fuzzy but I assume I can create it through ASCII table and dominics table where a every "password" can create a unique map.
      I got the inspiration from what so called "procedural generation" video games. The maps of these games are not designed manually. It is created through an algorithm which makes the same video game generates entirely different maps for players each time they play it

  • @YASHSINGH-nd9we
    @YASHSINGH-nd9we Рік тому +2

    Sir when you will make video about leitner space repetition i am waiting for video.......

    • @AnthonyMetivierMMM
      @AnthonyMetivierMMM  Рік тому +2

      I just shot it, as it happens. It's not that much different from this technique, but please stand by.

  • @markgreen4763
    @markgreen4763 Рік тому +15

    I must have missed the part where he actually shows an example of how he uses the zettelkasten method. Maybe in another video?

    • @AnthonyMetivierMMM
      @AnthonyMetivierMMM  Рік тому +5

      There are several examples and there are more examples on the blog post version on my site. Magnetic Memory Method + Zettelkasten should do the trick in your favorite search engine.
      It also links to several Zettelkasten-related techniques not discussed in this video.

    • @Richie33404
      @Richie33404 10 місяців тому

      He gives all the building blocks for how the system works as well as a few examples 🤷🏼‍♂️

  • @jeffbuchholz954
    @jeffbuchholz954 Рік тому +1

    Would this work fine digitally? I just started reading about a personal info management system called Obsidian that looks interesting. It has a plugin for Zettelkasten cards. I'm wondering if actually writing things out with a pen/pencil & paper enhances the system vs typing it into a computer storage system.

    • @AnthonyMetivierMMM
      @AnthonyMetivierMMM  Рік тому +2

      I don't personally use Obsidian, but there is a discussion of it here:
      ua-cam.com/video/AbGBktY3cmY/v-deo.html
      One of the reasons I don't use it is precisely because of the benefits of handwriting at large, which also needs to be measured against the consequences of too much digital exposure. These matters have been well-studied, though obviously different individuals experience the consequences variably.
      It's actually quite easy to test the difference: Use paper for 90-days followed by a 90-day digital trial. Test yourself with equally rigorous recall requirements and you'll have a solid idea of what works better for you.

    • @susankruger7890
      @susankruger7890 Рік тому

      Handwriting activated the problem-solving regions of our brain. Typing activated the language regions of our brain. So, yes, the pen/paper lends to deeper learning.

  • @ChristianFitzharris
    @ChristianFitzharris Рік тому +1

    Love this!

  • @JeffreySchwinghammer
    @JeffreySchwinghammer Рік тому +1

    oh cool! I didn't know you were into ZK. I gave it a go for some time but didn't keep it up. I guess I was missing the 'commit'. I think I overwhelmed myself at the time or something. Thank you for stirring the idea for me again - this could be helpful for me with my podcast (which is a creative output I didn't have before).
    In the next video you will talk about the numbering system, right? Isn't that essential... 1a,1b,1c,2a,3a,3b, etc

    • @AnthonyMetivierMMM
      @AnthonyMetivierMMM  Рік тому +1

      It's definitely something to practice with over the long term.
      I use a completely different number system and don't find the classic system useful at all. But how exactly I use the technique depends on the nature of the project.
      I suggest not following this or that person's system, but rather experiment and explore the key ideas of the technique, especially with the Memory Palace technique in mind.
      Even where I unpack how I use it in combination with Memory Palaces in the MMM Masterclass, I suggest you experiment and explore with various options.
      That said, I do believe how I've rigged it to work with a full Memory Palace Network does produce wonderful outcomes. I just don't know that they would apply to podcasting.

    • @JeffreySchwinghammer
      @JeffreySchwinghammer Рік тому +1

      ​@@AnthonyMetivierMMM Ok, cool. Thank you. I have a lot to ponder on here.

    • @AnthonyMetivierMMM
      @AnthonyMetivierMMM  Рік тому +1

      Just let me know if further questions arise. I'll get back to you a.s.a.p.
      I have shot a video about a similar system which will help make clearer how adaptable the core technique is. I'll probably release it before the end of the year.

    • @JeffreySchwinghammer
      @JeffreySchwinghammer Рік тому +1

      @@AnthonyMetivierMMM Great, man, take your time. I look forward to it.

  • @rr00676
    @rr00676 Рік тому +2

    ZK looked intimidating to me at first, but software makes it really easy. Just got to resist the urge to use infinite plug-ins and rules

  • @LeftBoot
    @LeftBoot Рік тому +1

    Nicely paced explanation. How many boxes do you own? Thank you. ❇️

    • @AnthonyMetivierMMM
      @AnthonyMetivierMMM  Рік тому +1

      I’ve completed many boxes over the years, but haven’t kept then all. I’m delighted by how much I remember nonetheless.
      Have you tried the technique yourself?

    • @LeftBoot
      @LeftBoot Рік тому +1

      I have created my own digital version. Currently exploring Obsidian and Notion@@AnthonyMetivierMMM

    • @AnthonyMetivierMMM
      @AnthonyMetivierMMM  Рік тому +1

      Cool.
      I talked with an Obsidian expert here:
      ua-cam.com/video/AbGBktY3cmY/v-deo.html

  • @hohlwelt
    @hohlwelt 8 місяців тому +1

    You didn't mention Paul Otlet. Perhaps you find him interesting. He spent years developing a decimal classification system for all knowledge, not only his personal research tool.

    • @AnthonyMetivierMMM
      @AnthonyMetivierMMM  8 місяців тому

      Yes, he is interesting, as were his collaborations with library science. I haven't read that he used Zettelkasten or other mnemonics systems, however. Have you come across anything like that in his biography?

    • @hohlwelt
      @hohlwelt 8 місяців тому +1

      @@AnthonyMetivierMMM Didn't read the biography. However, the whole system reminds me of a big Zettelkasten. Otlet and his collaborators used index cards & drawers. As i understand it, the connection between related topics was crucial to them. In a sense the system was smart and made use of serendipitous effects.

    • @AnthonyMetivierMMM
      @AnthonyMetivierMMM  8 місяців тому

      I can certainly see the how it brings this figure and history to mind. Personally, as a person with a library science certificate and nearly a decade of work experience in three libraries that used two different cataloging systems for the physical books, I don't feel that there's a strong enough connection to relate it to mnemonics.
      True, relationships between topics and physical/conceptual/thematic relationships and so forth prompt recall of where books are located in space. But that's a different thing than using Zettelkasten when the goal is not to know the location of the card. It's to know both the content on the card and related materials due to how the cards lend themselves to spaced repetition.
      All the same, I'll follow this lead and see if I'm incorrect on this to the best of my ability and thank you for the post.

    • @hohlwelt
      @hohlwelt 8 місяців тому +1

      @@AnthonyMetivierMMM Thanks a lot for pointing this out. I wasn't sure. Just because it might look like a Zettelkasten its use and function are different. Also, i have never worked myself with a Zettelkasten, i'm still using 'Voodoopad' on my computer. In my experience the Dewey Decimal System also provides a good chance of serendipity. You go to find a particular book but then discover other relevant titles in the vicinity. What Aby Warburg called the 'laws of good neighbourhood' in a library. :)

    • @AnthonyMetivierMMM
      @AnthonyMetivierMMM  8 місяців тому

      Warburg is someone I have discussed. He is much more closely tied to the mnemonic tradition in two key ways.

  • @defaultarmy1559
    @defaultarmy1559 Рік тому

    Great video,but I dont have index cards in where i live.And all my boxes are full of books.Are there any alternatives

    • @AnthonyMetivierMMM
      @AnthonyMetivierMMM  Рік тому +1

      Cut normal paper down to size. I’ve done it many times.

    • @defaultarmy1559
      @defaultarmy1559 Рік тому +1

      @@AnthonyMetivierMMM oh ok.I've never even thought about it before.

    • @dalydegagne1839
      @dalydegagne1839 Рік тому

      I see that zettle is normally translated as slips, as in slips of paper, and Zettelkasten as "slip box".

    • @lasanhaMomento
      @lasanhaMomento 6 місяців тому

      Obsidian

  • @gondala
    @gondala 23 дні тому +1

    I was interested in zettelkasten, but after i review and read some of Luhman's work, which is his books, I think to be honest, at least the books that I read was not impressed me at all. Not readable, too many references or quotes that he himself and his God know what it is. I think, Ryan's method of Card system is more sensible for me.

    • @AnthonyMetivierMMM
      @AnthonyMetivierMMM  22 дні тому +1

      If memory serves, I mention in this video that people take Luhman a bit too seriously, and generally fetishize the approach too much.
      In fact, to consider it a "system" was not my intent in this video. Apologies if I used that word.
      Rather, I would say it is a method by which each person can create their own system. Following the "systems" of others risks missing the point because it would be a very rare bird who never has exceptions to their own rules, not to mention spontaneous innovations and deviations... some of which they may never realize contribute an incredible amount of value to the overall process.

  • @raginald7mars408
    @raginald7mars408 Рік тому +3

    … as a German Biologist -
    You find your own way what works for YOU
    There is no “best way”
    There are many ways…

    • @AnthonyMetivierMMM
      @AnthonyMetivierMMM  Рік тому +2

      There is the appearance of many ways, but eventually they recurse and fold back in on themselves. This is part of the genius of this technique.

  • @gattuccina
    @gattuccina Рік тому +1

    Cool❤

  • @GMack224
    @GMack224 Рік тому +1

    I saw that Joan Rivers used this system. Interesting.

    • @AnthonyMetivierMMM
      @AnthonyMetivierMMM  Рік тому +2

      At least one of the most difficult CIA cases used it too in order to find a mole.

    • @GMack224
      @GMack224 Рік тому +1

      Indeed! I’m studying IsiZulu, and it is the hardest language I have ever seen in my life, but this particular system would definitely help me to compartmentalize and memorize the many components of the language. Thank you very much.

    • @AnthonyMetivierMMM
      @AnthonyMetivierMMM  Рік тому +2

      It does look and sound like a fun challenge!

    • @chrismartinelli7433
      @chrismartinelli7433 11 місяців тому +1

      She did? Can we talk?

    • @AnthonyMetivierMMM
      @AnthonyMetivierMMM  11 місяців тому

      Many thousands - if not millions - of people have used Zettelkasten and Leitner systems. For more, see:
      ua-cam.com/video/Y63eE3GjWyg/v-deo.html

  • @SnakeAndTurtleQigong
    @SnakeAndTurtleQigong Рік тому +2

    🙏

  • @YesHelloHiGoodbye
    @YesHelloHiGoodbye 7 місяців тому +1

    do the ppl who do zettelkasten just not have any responsibilities outside of academia idk how you can carry a pen and paper everywhere, for the modern world this is an almost unusable method for anyone wo class privilege

    • @AnthonyMetivierMMM
      @AnthonyMetivierMMM  7 місяців тому +1

      I worked two and sometimes three jobs while going through university and this technique was much cheaper to use in a month than charging the device I'm answering you on now.
      The odd time my backpack was a bit heavy, I was always thankful for the exercise.

    • @commenter4799
      @commenter4799 6 місяців тому +4

      It's less than a dollar for 100 index cards, and you can get pens for free from many businesses. You can get a small notebook for probably 75 cents. 80% of the world lives on less than $10 a day; I'm sure if you're privileged enough to be on UA-cam, you can afford a little paper or can find some for free.

    • @m.f.djaffar5317
      @m.f.djaffar5317 3 місяці тому

      Obsidian. Go for digital Zettelkasten!