De-Automating My Reading Notes: A New and Better Way For Capturing My Reading Notes in Obsidian

De-Automating My Reading Notes: A New and Better Way For Capturing My Reading Notes in Obsidian

In the age of digitalization, automation has become a key component in our daily lives. From smart homes to automated workflows, we rely on technology to streamline our tasks and make life more efficient. However, there are instances where automation can become detached and remote, hindering our ability to truly engage with the process. This is a lesson I learned when it came to capturing my reading notes in Obsidian.

Initially, I had set up an automation system that allowed me to quickly and efficiently transfer my reading notes into Obsidian. While this method was convenient, I realized that I was missing out on the deeper connection with the content. So, I decided to de-automate my reading notes and find a new and better way to capture them.

The first step in my new approach is to read the book and mark it up along the way. This allows me to actively engage with the text and highlight important passages or ideas. Instead of immediately creating a note in Obsidian, I keep spare sets of Post-It Flags handy to mark the sections I find noteworthy. This way, I can revisit them later and decide if they are truly worth capturing.

After finishing the book, I create a source note in Obsidian. This source note acts as a map of content (MOC) for the book, allowing me to have a centralized location for all the information related to that specific text. Within the source note, I can link to the separate notes I create for each significant passage. By using transcluded links, the full note appears in preview mode, providing a comprehensive overview of the book's content.

Sometimes, I come across thoughts or ideas that aren't substantial enough to warrant a separate note. In these cases, I simply capture them within the source note itself. This allows me to consolidate all my reflections and insights in one place, creating a holistic view of my reading experience.

One of the key insights I gained from de-automating my reading notes was the importance of truly absorbing the content. When I relied on automation, I found that I was simply going through the motions without fully comprehending the material. By taking the time to manually curate my notes, I am able to engage with the text on a deeper level and truly internalize the information.

Another valuable lesson I learned was the significance of readable titles. Initially, I had automated the titles of my reading notes with unique identifiers (UIDs). However, I discovered that this made it difficult to navigate and understand the content at a glance. By manually titling each note with a readable and descriptive title, I can easily find and review my notes in the future.

Incorporating these insights into my reading process has greatly enhanced my note-taking experience. I now feel more connected to the material and have a comprehensive system for capturing and organizing my reading notes in Obsidian. If you're looking for a new and improved way to capture your own reading notes, here are three actionable pieces of advice:

1. Engage with the text: Instead of mindlessly capturing notes, actively engage with the material as you read. Highlight important passages, jot down your thoughts, and truly absorb the content.

2. Curate your notes: Take the time to review and curate your notes after finishing the book. Decide which passages are worth capturing as separate notes and which can be integrated into the source note. This allows for a more organized and comprehensive collection of information.

3. Use readable titles: Avoid using automated or cryptic titles for your notes. Instead, opt for descriptive and readable titles that provide a clear overview of the content. This will make it easier to navigate and review your notes in the future.

In conclusion, de-automating my reading notes and adopting a new approach has allowed me to create a more meaningful and connected note-taking experience. By actively engaging with the text, curating my notes, and using readable titles, I have transformed my reading process and enhanced my ability to retain and utilize the information I encounter. So, the next time you reach for that automation tool, consider the value of a more hands-on approach and see how it can revolutionize your note-taking journey.