Principles of the Zettelkasten Method and Implementing Entries

Earlier this year, I came across a strategy that dramatically changed how I research and write articles and books. 

It’s called the Zettelkasten or Slipbox. This form of research and note-taking was popularised, at least in Germany, by sociologist and author Niklas Lumen.

(Fun fact: Lumen used the Slipbox or Zettelkasten method of research to write and publish over 70 books).

Basically, it involves writing a web of thought around your ideas, research, and readings. I write five to ten entries a day in my personal Slipbox, which is a little like journaling. 

Fear not: creating a Slipbox is relatively easy providing you follow a few simple rules.

Create a single entry per idea

• Link your entries to each other
• Use descriptive headings 
• Categorize your entries

There’s a little bit more to it than that. 

So, in this week’s interview, Sascha Fast explains:

• What a Slipbox is and how to use one for writing
• How to get started creating your Slipbox
• Why a Slipbox is ideal for non-fiction writers 
• How he’s using a Slipbox to research 70-YES 70!- books
• The tools you need to create one

Resources

Evernote

Day One 

Ulysses

Archive

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