# What Nobody Tells You About Organizing Folders in Obsidian ![](https://i.ytimg.com/vi/RNH4zpVUm3E/maxresdefault.jpg) ## Intro [(00:00:00)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RNH4zpVUm3E&t=0s) - Organizing folders in [[Obsidian (software) | Obsidian]] is a personal process, and there's no one-size-fits-all approach, but a step-by-step method can help achieve the best results [(00:00:00)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RNH4zpVUm3E&t=0s). - The process starts with no folders at all and builds from the bottom up, creating structure every step of the way, based on individual needs [(00:00:09)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RNH4zpVUm3E&t=9s). - This approach is effective because it's tailored to what the user needs, rather than following someone else's advice or online tutorials [(00:00:18)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RNH4zpVUm3E&t=18s). - The process will be demonstrated through a series of examples with different notes, and viewers can follow along and adapt the approach to their own needs [(00:00:32)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RNH4zpVUm3E&t=32s). - The goal of the video is to guide viewers through the process of organizing folders in a way that removes confusion and helps them determine which folders they need, which they might need in the future, and which they don't need at all [(00:00:51)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RNH4zpVUm3E&t=51s). - The video is comprehensive and covers the process of going from no notes to thousands of notes, with many examples and a step-by-step approach [(00:01:07)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RNH4zpVUm3E&t=67s). - Viewers can follow along in order or jump ahead to specific sections that are relevant to their needs [(00:01:30)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RNH4zpVUm3E&t=90s). - The video focuses on folders, but the ultimate goal is to enable viewers to think about linking their ideas and making connections between them [(00:01:37)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RNH4zpVUm3E&t=97s). - The approach acknowledges that some people may not need folders at all, but also recognizes that many users require folders in unique ways [(00:02:03)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RNH4zpVUm3E&t=123s). ## Inside the Obsidian Vault [(00:02:19)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RNH4zpVUm3E&t=139s) - A cascading series of [[Obsidian (software) | Obsidian]] vaults is visible on the screen, which will be explored in detail through a guided process [(00:02:21)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RNH4zpVUm3E&t=141s). - The guided process aims to break down the different phases of taking and making notes over time [(00:02:35)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RNH4zpVUm3E&t=155s). - The setup for this process took a lot of effort, but it will be shared to help others understand the various stages involved in organizing notes in Obsidian [(00:02:43)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RNH4zpVUm3E&t=163s). ## How do we start? [(00:02:49)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RNH4zpVUm3E&t=169s) - The need to organize folders in Obsidian arises from the desire to hold onto thoughts, memories, and ideas, and the fear of losing them if not captured in some way [(00:02:49)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RNH4zpVUm3E&t=169s). - People often turn to paper and digital tools like [[Obsidian (software) | Obsidian]] to jot down and store ideas and thoughts [(00:03:03)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RNH4zpVUm3E&t=183s). - Human minds can only hold onto approximately five items at any given time, which is inadequate for life's needs, making it necessary to extend minds onto paper and digital tools [(00:03:14)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RNH4zpVUm3E&t=194s). - The process of organizing folders in Obsidian typically starts with opening the first Vault, referred to as "note system zero" [(00:03:35)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RNH4zpVUm3E&t=215s). ## Vault #1: Note System Zero [(00:03:39)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RNH4zpVUm3E&t=219s) - A new Vault in Obsidian initially contains only the welcome note added by the application [(00:03:43)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RNH4zpVUm3E&t=223s). - The welcome note is the only note present in a newly created Vault [(00:03:41)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RNH4zpVUm3E&t=221s). - A new Vault setup is demonstrated, showing its initial state [(00:03:46)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RNH4zpVUm3E&t=226s). - A common, relatable scenario is presented, where one needs to go to the grocery store to pick up food [(00:03:51)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RNH4zpVUm3E&t=231s). - The scenario highlights the need to remember multiple items to get when going to the store, which can be challenging [(00:04:02)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RNH4zpVUm3E&t=242s). - This scenario is used to introduce the concept of Note System Zero, which is the starting point for organizing folders in [[Obsidian (software) | Obsidian]] [(00:04:07)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RNH4zpVUm3E&t=247s). ## Vault #2: Note System Two [(00:04:08)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RNH4zpVUm3E&t=248s) - A simple note-taking system can start with something as basic as a grocery list, which can be referenced when needed, but can become complex over time if not managed properly [(00:04:10)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RNH4zpVUm3E&t=250s). - The system can also be used to capture interesting concepts or ideas from non-fiction books that can have a positive impact on one's life, allowing users to recall them at the right time [(00:04:37)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RNH4zpVUm3E&t=277s). - When a new idea or concept is captured, it is created as a new note, given a descriptive title, and stored in the system, such as the concept of "antifragility" [(00:04:53)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RNH4zpVUm3E&t=293s). - As the number of notes grows, it is not necessary to create a large number of folders to organize them, as this can lead to more folders than notes, which is inefficient [(00:05:13)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RNH4zpVUm3E&t=313s). - Instead, the focus should be on creating more notes, which will be explored further in the next section, Vault number three, note system 2 [(00:05:24)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RNH4zpVUm3E&t=324s). ## Vault #3: Note system 22 [(00:05:28)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RNH4zpVUm3E&t=328s) - The current note system has 22 notes, which is starting to cause tension and anxiety when trying to find the right note at the right time, and this feeling would worsen with more notes, such as 200 or 2,000 [(00:05:39)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RNH4zpVUm3E&t=339s). - The notes cover various topics, including Concepts, journal entries, projects, quotes, simmering efforts, notes from class, daily notes, and more [(00:06:15)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RNH4zpVUm3E&t=375s). - Despite having only 22 notes, the system will be organized using folders to demonstrate how it can be done, pretending that the system will expand to 200 or 2,000 notes [(00:06:30)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RNH4zpVUm3E&t=390s). - Three different examples of organizing the 22 notes will be explored [(00:06:41)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RNH4zpVUm3E&t=401s). ## The 3 Different examples of how to organize notes [(00:06:43)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RNH4zpVUm3E&t=403s) - The discussion will cover three different examples of organizing notes, starting with random attempts, followed by two popular systems: the PARA method and the ACE framework [(00:06:45)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RNH4zpVUm3E&t=405s). - The random attempts section involves organizing 22 different notes in a Vault, encouraging experimentation and creative thinking about how to structure the notes [(00:06:50)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RNH4zpVUm3E&t=410s). - The PARA method and the ACE framework will be explored as two established systems for organizing notes, in addition to the random attempts [(00:06:57)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RNH4zpVUm3E&t=417s). ## Random Attempts [(00:07:09)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RNH4zpVUm3E&t=429s) - A custom theme called "Soft Paper" is used to differentiate between colorful folders and notes in [[Obsidian (software) | Obsidian]] [(00:07:20)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RNH4zpVUm3E&t=440s). - Book highlights can be categorized as "Source notes" and placed in a corresponding folder [(00:07:42)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RNH4zpVUm3E&t=462s). - Idea and knowledge notes can be challenging to organize, with some people using a folder called "Atomic notes" for small notes, while others use "Evergreen notes" for mature notes with many links [(00:08:00)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RNH4zpVUm3E&t=480s). - Alternative folder options for idea and knowledge notes include "Ideas", "Knowledge", "Thoughts", and "[[Umami]]", which is a category for notes that don't fit into other categories [(00:08:33)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RNH4zpVUm3E&t=513s). - The "Umami" folder can be useful for notes that are hard to categorize, as it acknowledges the fuzziness and ambiguity of idea and knowledge notes [(00:09:44)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RNH4zpVUm3E&t=584s). - When dealing with projects, a clear folder title like "Projects" or "Efforts" can be used, but for ideas and knowledge, a fuzzier folder title may be more suitable [(00:09:57)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RNH4zpVUm3E&t=597s). - Productivity-based notes, such as those related to efforts and projects, can be organized separately from idea and knowledge notes [(00:10:32)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RNH4zpVUm3E&t=632s). - The organization of notes will depend on individual needs and can be further developed using the "Par Method" and the "ACE Framework" [(00:10:30)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RNH4zpVUm3E&t=630s). - Study notes, course notes, or learning materials can be organized in a folder, but it's essential to consider where notes from various sources, such as online courses, articles, or individuals, will be stored [(00:11:33)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RNH4zpVUm3E&t=693s). - A designated spot for notes from different sources helps maintain organization and makes it easier to find specific information [(00:11:36)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RNH4zpVUm3E&t=696s). - Time-bound notes, such as daily notes, can be stored in a folder with a name like "Daily Notes," "Calendar," "Chronology," or "Journal" to keep them organized and easily accessible [(00:11:52)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RNH4zpVUm3E&t=712s). - If daily notes are not relevant, there is no need to create a folder for them, but if they are relevant, it's crucial to figure out a folder system that works and is easy to maintain [(00:12:13)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RNH4zpVUm3E&t=733s). - The goal of organizing folders is to create a system that allows for easy maintenance, linking of thoughts, writing, and making connections and insights without getting bogged down in the organization process [(00:12:20)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RNH4zpVUm3E&t=740s). ## Introduction to PARA method and ACE method [(00:12:32)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RNH4zpVUm3E&t=752s) - The PARA method and ACE framework are two popular folder frameworks that can be used to organize notes, providing an alternative to starting from scratch. [(00:13:22)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RNH4zpVUm3E&t=802s) - Thiago Forte's PARA method is one of the frameworks that can be used to organize notes, and it will be explored as an option for organizing the 22 notes. [(00:13:49)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RNH4zpVUm3E&t=829s) - The 22 notes can be used as a starting point to think about how to organize them with folders, and this can be scaled up to a larger number of notes, such as 2022. [(00:13:38)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RNH4zpVUm3E&t=818s) - Note systems 22 and 75 are available for download, providing a sandbox for users to practice organizing notes with their own customized version of folders. [(00:13:07)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RNH4zpVUm3E&t=787s) - Users are encouraged to download the note systems, organize the notes, and share their results via email, with a link to download the note systems provided in the description. [(00:13:09)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RNH4zpVUm3E&t=789s) ## PARA method [(00:13:52)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RNH4zpVUm3E&t=832s) - The PARA method stands for Projects, Areas, Resources, and Archives, which are used as folders for organizing notes. [(00:13:52)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RNH4zpVUm3E&t=832s) - The Projects folder is used for tasks or projects that have a deadline, such as a project due next month, and also for efforts similar to projects, like a simmering effort. [(00:14:12)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RNH4zpVUm3E&t=852s) - The Areas folder is used for topics or subjects that are not necessarily time-bound, such as calculus 101, world history notes, or a list of virtues to live by. [(00:14:26)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RNH4zpVUm3E&t=866s) - The Resources folder is used for storing information that can be referenced later, such as a private journal entry, a quote from [[Dolly Parton]], highlights from a book, or important concepts. [(00:14:03)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RNH4zpVUm3E&t=843s) - The Archives folder is not explicitly mentioned in the context of organizing notes, but it is implied to be part of the PARA method. [(00:13:52)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RNH4zpVUm3E&t=832s) - The PARA method does not explicitly account for time-based notes, such as daily notes, and users may need to create an additional folder, such as a Calendar folder, to store these types of notes. [(00:15:26)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RNH4zpVUm3E&t=926s) ## ACE method [(00:16:04)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RNH4zpVUm3E&t=964s) - The ACE method is a framework for organizing folders, with ACE standing for Atlas, Calendar, and Efforts, representing three headspaces: thinking and knowledge, time-based things, and action-based things [(00:16:04)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RNH4zpVUm3E&t=964s). - Atlas is for idea and knowledge-based notes, such as virtues, private journal entries, and notes from books [(00:16:32)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RNH4zpVUm3E&t=992s). - Calendar is for time-based notes, such as project due dates and daily notes [(00:16:38)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RNH4zpVUm3E&t=998s). - Efforts is for action-based notes, such as project notes, to-do lists, and outcome-based notes [(00:16:40)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RNH4zpVUm3E&t=1000s). - Daily notes can be stored in the Calendar section, and can include various types of notes, such as grocery lists and important concepts [(00:17:02)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RNH4zpVUm3E&t=1022s). - The ACE method allows for a simple folder structure, with only a few main folders, making it easy to know where everything goes [(00:17:42)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RNH4zpVUm3E&t=1062s). - In addition to the three main folders, the ACE framework also includes an Inbox folder for new notes and an Extras folder for templates, images, and other non-note files [(00:18:26)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RNH4zpVUm3E&t=1106s). - The ACE method can be applied to various use cases, and individuals can adapt it to their specific needs, whether they only need to store ideas or also manage efforts and projects [(00:17:58)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RNH4zpVUm3E&t=1078s). ## The Note System 75 [(00:19:03)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RNH4zpVUm3E&t=1143s) - There are different types of notes, including notes about notes, which need to be organized in a system [(00:19:04)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RNH4zpVUm3E&t=1144s). - In addition to notes, other types of files such as images also need to be organized within the system [(00:19:08)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RNH4zpVUm3E&t=1148s). - The organization of images is a consideration that users will need to address on their own, with additional resources provided in the links below [(00:19:10)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RNH4zpVUm3E&t=1150s). - A folder framework, such as the Ace framework, can be used to get started with organizing notes and other files [(00:19:26)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RNH4zpVUm3E&t=1166s). - A free Vault called "IdeaVerse" for [[Obsidian (software) | Obsidian]] is provided in the links below, which can be used to help users get started with organizing their notes and files [(00:19:31)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RNH4zpVUm3E&t=1171s). ## The Ideaverse vault for Obsidian [(00:19:38)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RNH4zpVUm3E&t=1178s) - The Ideaverse vault is the pro version of another vault, but it is completely free and serves as a sandbox for users to experiment and find what works for them [(00:19:39)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RNH4zpVUm3E&t=1179s). - The Ideaverse vault contains the same Ace framework previously discussed and includes around 500 notes and files for users to explore and understand what will work for them [(00:19:51)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RNH4zpVUm3E&t=1191s). - The Ideaverse vault is considered a separate sandbox where users can move around and play without affecting their main setup [(00:20:00)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RNH4zpVUm3E&t=1200s). - The vault is structured around three main headspaces: Atlas, calendar, and efforts, which are also the core components used across the board [(00:20:08)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RNH4zpVUm3E&t=1208s). - The Atlas, calendar, and efforts headspaces are also reflected in the finder window, indicating their importance in the overall organization system [(00:20:14)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RNH4zpVUm3E&t=1214s). ## Nick’s Personal Ideaverse Setup [(00:20:20)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RNH4zpVUm3E&t=1220s) - A customized idea verse has been created with over 7,000 notes, featuring a flattened structure with more folders, which is not recommended for most people as it may be too complex [(00:20:20)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RNH4zpVUm3E&t=1220s). - The idea verse is divided into three main categories: Dots, Maps, and Works, which serve as the foundation for organizing notes [(00:21:10)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RNH4zpVUm3E&t=1270s). - Dots is a catch-all folder for notes that don't fit into specific categories, such as Atomic notes or Evergreen notes [(00:21:12)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RNH4zpVUm3E&t=1272s). - Maps is a folder for notes that map out content and help connect ideas [(00:21:37)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RNH4zpVUm3E&t=1297s). - Works is a folder for projects or ideas that are being worked on with the intention of sharing them [(00:21:46)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RNH4zpVUm3E&t=1306s). - Sources is a separate folder for capturing and adding new sources to the note system [(00:22:12)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RNH4zpVUm3E&t=1332s). - A calendar folder is used to store daily notes in reverse chronological order, with previous years stored in a subfolder called Years [(00:22:27)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RNH4zpVUm3E&t=1347s). - A Compass folder is used for deeper reflections, planning, and end-of-year reviews to help find direction in life [(00:22:47)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RNH4zpVUm3E&t=1367s). - Efforts is a folder for projects or actions that are being worked on, with four levels of intensity: turned on, ongoing, simmering, and sleeping [(00:23:21)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RNH4zpVUm3E&t=1401s). - Effort notes is a separate folder for random notes related to efforts, which can be used to brainstorm and connect ideas [(00:23:44)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RNH4zpVUm3E&t=1424s). - Extras is a folder for miscellaneous items such as images, notes about notes, [[PDF | PDFs]], prompts, scripts, and templates [(00:24:20)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RNH4zpVUm3E&t=1460s). - The idea verse is highly customized and not recommended for everyone, as it's essential to start from the bottom up and create a system that works for each individual [(00:20:51)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RNH4zpVUm3E&t=1251s). ## The Importance of Building from the Bottom Up [(00:25:12)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RNH4zpVUm3E&t=1512s) - When organizing folders in [[Obsidian (software) | Obsidian]], it is recommended to start with no folders at all and work from the bottom up to find your own way and create a system that is tailored to your needs [(00:25:13)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RNH4zpVUm3E&t=1513s). - If needed, consider using frameworks such as the PAR method or the ACE framework to get started, but ultimately make the system your own by recognizing and eliminating unused folders [(00:25:23)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RNH4zpVUm3E&t=1523s). - Starting with no folders allows for a fresh perspective on how they work for you and helps to remove confusion and increase clarity around folder organization [(00:25:50)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RNH4zpVUm3E&t=1550s). - The goal of organizing folders is to create a system that works for you, but it's essential to remember that your needs are constantly changing, and your folders can change accordingly [(00:26:14)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RNH4zpVUm3E&t=1574s). - It's crucial to be open to adjusting your folder organization as you move on with life and revisit your approach periodically to evolve your folder needs [(00:26:22)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RNH4zpVUm3E&t=1582s). - Time spent organizing folders is time not spent on other tasks, so it's essential to strike a balance between organizing and other activities [(00:26:54)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RNH4zpVUm3E&t=1614s). - Revisiting your folder organization approach periodically, such as every 3-6 months, can help you refine your system and adapt to changing needs [(00:26:38)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RNH4zpVUm3E&t=1598s). ## Balancing Folder Organization and Linking Thinking [(00:26:57)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RNH4zpVUm3E&t=1617s) - Linking thinking is more valuable than organizing folders, as it involves making connections between ideas, creating relationships between domains and fields, and combining them in unique ways to create value for oneself and others [(00:27:00)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RNH4zpVUm3E&t=1620s). - The process of linking thinking allows individuals to make meaningful relationships between different areas of knowledge that may not have been previously connected, leading to the creation of new insights and understanding [(00:27:05)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RNH4zpVUm3E&t=1625s). - The ultimate goal is to focus on the notes, words, ideas, and links, rather than just organizing folders, which is why it's essential to close the folder sidebar and concentrate on the content [(00:27:25)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RNH4zpVUm3E&t=1645s). - By prioritizing linking thinking, individuals can create new and valuable combinations of ideas that have not been previously explored, leading to innovation and progress [(00:27:13)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RNH4zpVUm3E&t=1633s). ## Finding Your Own Way [(00:27:34)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RNH4zpVUm3E&t=1654s) - Organizing folders in [[Obsidian (software) | Obsidian]] should be done in a way that is personal and unique to the individual, rather than following a specific method that may not work for them [(00:27:36)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RNH4zpVUm3E&t=1656s). - The goal is to find a way of organizing folders that is tailored to one's own needs and preferences [(00:27:38)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RNH4zpVUm3E&t=1658s). - The video aims to help viewers get closer to finding their own way of organizing folders in Obsidian [(00:27:41)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RNH4zpVUm3E&t=1661s). - The channel "Linking Your Thinking" is hosted by Nick Milo, where he discusses the how and why of making meaningful notes [(00:27:47)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RNH4zpVUm3E&t=1667s). - Viewers are encouraged to like the video and subscribe to the channel if they find it valuable, as it helps make the content more discoverable to others who may be struggling with the same issues [(00:27:54)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RNH4zpVUm3E&t=1674s). - The next video in the series will focus on eliminating distractions in Obsidian and helping viewers get their best work done [(00:28:25)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RNH4zpVUm3E&t=1705s).