Obsidian-for-Researchers

Overview

This repository provides two core learning resources designed to help you use Obsidian for scientific research — whether you're just getting started or looking to enhance an existing workflow:

1. Learn the Basics of Obsidian
A step-by-step guide that introduces the fundamental features of Obsidian. You’ll learn how to:

• Set up your personal Vault
• Use templates to streamline your daily workflow
• Organize and track tasks efficiently

2. Apply the Zettelkasten Method with Obsidian and Zotero 8
A complete setup inspired by Niklas Luhmann’s Zettelkasten method, including:

• Connecting Obsidian with Zotero 8
• Transferring literature-based knowledge into your Vault
• Building a personal system for long-term academic thinking and writing

❗️The second exercise builds on the settings of the first. Doing only the second exercise is at your own risk.

Each resource is available in two formats:

• Step-by-step instructions – ideal for beginners who want to build understanding while creating their Vault
• A finished example Vault – recommended for advanced users who want to dive in and explore the setup right away (see section 'Quick Start')

Choose the path that fits your needs.

What You’ll Learn

Exercises Learning Obsidian

• How to install and set up Obsidian
• Basic configuration of your Obsidian vault
• Use the Daily Note with a template to organize and track your tasks
• Connect and structure your knowledge: Insert links, URLs, and local files; use the graph view and tags

Exercises Zettelkasten-method with Obsidian and Zotero 8

• Connect Obsidian and Zotero 8 using the plugins Better BibTeX (Zotero) and Zotero Integration by mgmeyers (Obsidian), and configure them for your Zettelkasten system
• Introduction to Niklas Luhmann’s Zettelkasten method
• Apply the Zettelkasten method in Obsidian
• Transfer literature-based knowledge from Zotero into your Obsidian vault
• Develop a detailed workflow using the Zettelkasten approach

Quick Start

It is possible to download the results of the exercises. So the Vault, which you get at the end of the first Exercise and the Vault, which is at the end of the second Exercise. Follow the instructions: Ready-to-use_Obsidian_Vaults

📂 Folder Structure

📁 Exercises_Learning_Obsidian

• learn Obsidian – step-by-step instructions
  

📁 Exercises_Zettelkasten-method_with_Obsidian_Zotero_7

• learning the Zettelkasten method with Obsidian and Zotero 8 – a step-by-step guide
  

📁 Materials-for-Exercises

• templates and resources for the exercises
  

📁 Ready-to-Use_Obsidian_Vaults

• vaults based on the provided instructions
  

📄 README.md

• start by reading the README file
  

Feedback and Contribution

If you'd like to give feedback, report issues, or suggest improvements, please use the Issues section of the repository or create a pull request.

Thank you for helping improve this resource!

Acknowledgements

This repository would not have been possible without the vibrant Obsidian community on Discord, Reddit, YouTube, and the Obsidian Forum. Thank you for every contribution that has allowed me to learn and grow. I stand on your shoulders.