zettelkasten-mcp

================================================================ Start of Project Knowledge File ================================================================ Purpose: -------- This file is designed to be consumed by AI systems for analysis, review, or other automated processes. It solely serves the purpose of background information and should NOT under any circumstances leak into the user's interaction with the AI when actually USING the Zettelkasten MCP tools to process, explore or synthesize user-supplied information. Content: -------- # The Zettelkasten method The Zettelkasten method is a knowledge management system structured around atomic notes (zettels) that function as discrete units of information, each assigned a unique identifier within a hierarchical addressing scheme. These identifiers enable non-linear linking between notes, creating a network of interconnected ideas that transcends traditional categorical organization. The system operates on principles of atomicity (limiting each note to a single concept), autonomy (ensuring notes can stand alone while maintaining connections), and explicit linking (creating bidirectional references between related notes). This architecture facilitates emergent knowledge structures through associative trails rather than predetermined hierarchies. Implementation requires consistent notation of bibliographic references, permanent storage mechanisms, and standardized formatting conventions. Notes are typically composed in plain text with machine-readable syntax for links, tags, and metadata. The technical framework incorporates connection types that differentiate between sequential links (fixed paths), structural links (hierarchical relationships), and associative links (conceptual connections). This network topology allows for traversal along multiple dimensions: vertical exploration within subject areas and horizontal exploration across domains, enabling serendipitous discovery through link-following while maintaining content addressability through the identifier system. The Zettelkasten method involves several additional technical components that enhance its functionality. A crucial aspect is the implementation of a progressive ID system, typically using timestamp-based identifiers (e.g., 202503261423) or alphanumeric branching notation (e.g., 12a1b2), which facilitates both temporal sequencing and conceptual branching. The system employs specific note typologies: literature notes (extracted concepts), permanent notes (processed knowledge units), structure notes (topical indexes), and hub notes (curated entry points). Advanced implementations utilize bidirectional linking with programmatic backlink generation and transclusion protocols that allow content to be referenced without duplication. From an architectural perspective, the Zettelkasten operates as a directed graph database with each note functioning as a node containing both content and edge definitions. Query mechanisms typically include full-text search, tag-based filtering, and graph traversal algorithms for identifying relationship patterns. The technical foundations include: a standardized syntax for internal references (e.g., [[note-id]]), external reference schemas for bibliographic citation, attribute frameworks for metadata tagging (often using YAML frontmatter in digital implementations), and versioning protocols for tracking note evolution. The system's technical robustness comes from its adaptability to both analog implementations (using physical index cards with cross-reference notations) and digital platforms (employing plain text files with machine-parsable linking syntax). ================================================================ End of Project Knowledge File ================================================================