A simple Zettelkasten is the best way to start

The tool does not make the artist.

An artist can create art with either simple or complex tools. Their skill doesn’t depend on the complexity of the tool, but on their ability, creativity, and above all, on their understanding of the principles of art. A pencil in the hands of an expert produces masterpieces; in the hands of a novice, just doodles.

However, simple tools have one advantage: they make learning easier. Mastering a simple tool is quick, allowing you to focus on what truly matters: learning and practicing the principles.

For the same reason, a Zettelkasten — as a tool — does not give you the ability to think deeply. That ability depends on your understanding of the method and the principles of knowledge work:

• If you master them, you can think deeply even with the most basic Zettelkasten.
• If you don’t, not even the most advanced Zettelkasten will help you.

That’s why, if you want to learn the Zettelkasten method, don’t start by searching for “the best app” — start by using something you already master (or can master very quickly). If you’re comfortable with Obsidian, go for it. If you know Google Docs, perfect. And if you use nothing at all, pick the simplest tool that lets you start today.

The minimum features you need (the equivalent of a pencil) are:

• create notes,
• write in them,
• and link them permanently.

When I started, my Zettelkasten was just a folder called “zettelkasten” with Markdown files I edited in Vim. I used Markdown and Vim because I already knew them well. At first, I didn’t even have a text search, and I had to follow links manually. Over time, I added improvements: full-text search, tag autocompletion, better visual style… But if I had to go back to my first system today, I wouldn’t lose anything essential. It would be slower and less comfortable, yes. But I’d still have what really matters: my understanding of the principles.

“Wherever I go, it will be well with me: for even here it was not the place that made me well off, but my princples, and these I shall carry away with me, for no one can rob me of them.” —Epictetus, Discourses, Book 4, Chapter 7

Best,
Fernando Nóbel

P.S.: What tool do you already master that you could use for your Zettelkasten?