3 smart ways to use Obsidian to enhance your productivity

Obsidian has revolutionized the way people manage their notes and projects. While it initially started as a simple application for storing ideas, its advanced features have transformed this tool into a productivity engine. From backlinks that allow for the interconnection of notes to a visual graph that aids in organization, Obsidian has positioned itself as a preferred choice for those looking to optimize their workflow. Below are three smart ways to use Obsidian to enhance productivity.

1. Utilizing Backlinks: Creating a Network of Notes

Obsidian's backlinks feature allows users to transform isolated notes into a dynamic network of interconnected ideas. Instead of relying on folders to organize information, using backlinks facilitates the creation of a personal wiki.

When drafting text, for example, it's common to not remember all the details of the research conducted. To resolve this, links can be created to specific keywords by selecting these terms and pressing the left bracket twice. By clicking on a keyword, one can access a dedicated page that adds relevant information, allowing for continued writing without losing the thread. For instance, clicking on "Luca" can lead to that character's backstory.

Moreover, backlinks enable the creation of bidirectional connections. This means that when accessing a linked page, one can easily return to the original page by creating a new empty space and selecting the page name from the dropdown menu. This method makes navigation between ideas smooth and easy to manage, similar to relationships in Notion databases.

At the bottom of any linked page, there is a list of "Linked Mentions," showing all interconnected pages. There are also "Unlinked Mentions," highlighting pages that contain the same keyword but are not directly related. The link button automatically creates a link without the need to search for the corresponding page.

2. Maximizing the Use of the Graph View

Obsidian's graph view may seem like a complex web of nodes and links, but it is actually a versatile tool that offers multiple functions. Firstly, it acts as a means of discovery, revealing ideas and projects that have been explored in depth through dense groups of notes while isolated nodes may indicate ideas that have been forgotten, some from years ago. This turns those old notes into opportunities for new review.

The graph view also functions as a progress report. By observing the graph, it's possible to instantly identify which topics have enough content, which have too many connections (which can be overwhelming), and which topics require further development. Thus, instead of reviewing a list of pages, the graph narrates a visual story about the status of current projects: indicating which areas are well-developed and which are too sparse.

Furthermore, this visualization encourages non-linear exploration. By opening each node in a new tab, the user is not limited to the content of a specific page, which helps keep ideas alive that might have been lost. The graph view also aids memorization by showing how all projects and notes relate visually, avoiding reliance solely on memory or searches.

One of the highlights of the graph view is the customization that Obsidian offers. In the settings menu, it's possible to filter nodes, adjust their appearance, including size, and customize the animation of the nodes and lines.

3. Using Canvas to Structure Projects

Obsidian's Canvas allows users to turn abstract projects into a tangible and visual workspace, which is especially beneficial for those who think visually. Through this tool, it's possible to drag elements from the vault, organize, style, and connect blocks as desired. Additionally, quick note cards can be created within the canvas, facilitating the organization of related information. For example, a narrative project might have the central draft, research grouped in one corner, and references in another.

A significant benefit of using the Canvas is that it reduces mental friction by organizing work spatially, eliminating doubt about "where to start." The Canvas converts scattered notes into an accessible and clear workmap, similar to creating mind maps within Obsidian.

Conclusion

Updating the way you use Obsidian will transform your experience with this tool, making it an effective productivity engine. By implementing features like backlinks, you create an interconnected knowledge library. The graph view offers a visual representation that connects all threads of work, and the Canvas provides a clear action map. For those managing research, writing, and multiple projects, Obsidian presents itself as a productivity multiplier that effectively optimizes and manages all these tasks.

To continue exploring Obsidian's potential and enhance your workflow, feel free to check out more articles on my blog.