How I Use Obsidian Zettelkasten for AI studies

A demonstration of how a note-taking master does it.

Today, I'm pulling back the curtain on one of the most requested topics from my YouTube channel: how I actually implement the Zettelkasten method in practice. I'm going to walk you through my process of converting reading notes into permanent notes, using my current study of artificial intelligence as an example.

The Power of Slow Processing

One of the biggest misconceptions about note-taking is that it should be quick. In reality, the magic happens when you slow down. Way down. Let me show you what I mean.

I recently spent over 10 minutes processing just two notes from my AI studies. This isn't inefficiency – it's intentional deep engagement with the material. This careful approach is what enables me to learn 10 times faster than my peers, even though it might seem paradoxical at first.

My Three-Step Process

1. Initial Capture

I start with rough notes in a physical notebook while reading. These are quick captures of interesting concepts, quotes, and thoughts. For my AI studies, I captured things like Ray Kurzweil's definition of singularity and various definitions of artificial intelligence.

2. Digital Processing

Here's where the magic happens. I use Obsidian (and sometimes Neovim) to transform these rough notes into permanent notes. Each note should be:

• Written in your own words

• Atomic (one concept per note)

• Connected to other notes

• Written as if ready for publication

3. Creating Connections

I maintain three types of connections for each note:

• Daily notes (when it was created)

• Source notes (which book/article it came from)

• Index notes (thematic organization)

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

• Processing notes too quickly

• Copying quotes without rewriting in your own words

• Waiting too long to process notes (ideally, do it the same day)

• Not creating enough connections between notes

Tools I Use

• Obsidian for main note-taking

• Neovim for certain workflows

• Physical notebooks for initial capture

• Excalidraw plugin for visual exploration

Why This Matters

This methodical approach to note-taking isn't just about organizing information – it's about truly understanding and internalizing knowledge. It's what allowed me to transition from nursing to DevOps engineering and build a successful career in tech.

Want to Learn More?

If you're interested in mastering this note-taking system, I teach a complete course on Zettelkasten in Obsidian as part of my DevOps community. You can purchase the course separately for $240 here.

But the course is also included with a $47 membership in KubeCraft, my community for serious engineers.

There is a 7-day money-back guarantee. Sign up now.

Until next time,
Mischa

P.S. What's your biggest challenge with note-taking? Comment on this post – I'd love to hear from you and perhaps address it in a future newsletter!