Exploring My Top Obsidian Themes and Essential Plugins
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Chapter 1: Introduction to Obsidian Themes
Plain text productivity can be exciting! Obsidian serves as a stylish interface that complements my plain text system. While my fundamental approach to productivity has remained consistent over the past year, it has evolved in sophistication. In this section, I will discuss my preferred themes along with the plugins that add a delightful touch to my productivity setup.
Section 1.1: My Favorite Themes
In 2021, my favorite theme was Red Graphite, and I still enjoy it. Recently, I added Subtle Gold to my collection, allowing me to switch between the two for variety. This brings my total to three preferred themes, including the default purple one. Although I am open to trying more themes, none have resonated with me as much as these.
The design features I appreciate include the bold date display, complemented by monthly and weekly links. Adjusting the prominence of certain elements, like color and boldness, allows me to personalize my Obsidian planning pages. While these adjustments aren't theme-specific, the choice of theme significantly influences the overall aesthetic.
Section 1.2: Banners Plugin
Initially, I used a static graphic at the top of my Index page, but the Banners plugin offers greater flexibility. Instead of cropping images manually, Banners enables me to select which part of an image to display by simply dragging it. This feature allows the banner to extend across the full width of the page, unlike pasted images that are limited to the text width. Additionally, I can incorporate an icon at the bottom of the banner for a more polished look.
Chapter 2: Leveraging DataView
The first video titled "TOP 10 BEST Obsidian Plugins" provides insights into the best plugins available for enhancing your Obsidian experience.
Section 2.1: Managing Contacts
Currently, I'm exploring the DataView plugin with caution. I'm concerned that if I rely on its capabilities too heavily, I might stray from my plain text roots. However, I'm utilizing DataView to create a master contact list and to summarize my daily activities throughout the year.
The contact list, maintained in plain text, helps me avoid issues like data corruption that I've encountered with traditional contact apps. Each contact's page is structured using a naming convention of Surname, First Name, with YAML front matter for essential details like email, phone number, and more.
aliases: ["Doe, Jane", "Jane Doe", "Jane", "JD"]
email: [email protected]
phone: 0444 444 444
birthday: 1985-03-18
tags: family
DataView organizes this information in a separate file titled Contacts Directory.
Section 2.2: Daily Note Summary
Using DataView, I also summarize each day in a single note, capturing my locations and activities. A typical daily note includes YAML front matter that might look like this:
locations: ["Gosford, NSW", "Cessnock, NSW"]
weather: Rain, localized flooding—we're okay
summary: Worked on an interactive planner most of the day; spent time with L and family in the evening.
The DataView code on my 2022 Daily Note Summary page compiles this information, organizing it for easy reference.
LIST summary FROM "CALENDAR/2022 CALENDAR NOTES/2022 DAYS"
SORT file.name DESC
I prefer to view my notes as a list instead of a table since DataView sometimes mismanages column widths.
Pros and Cons of DataView
✔️ Live search functionality allows for quick text highlighting
✔️ Having all summaries in one place provides a sense of achievement and perspective
✖️ Limited control over column widths
The inspiration for this feature came from Jamie Rubin's Practically Paperless blog post № 22.
Chapter 3: The Kanban Plugin
The second video titled "Most USEFUL Obsidian Plugins I Actually Use" highlights some of the most practical plugins that can enhance your workflow in Obsidian.
Section 3.1: Utilizing Kanban
Though I may be a bit late to the Kanban plugin trend, I appreciate how intuitive it is for moving items between lists. I like editing my 'cards' in a plain Markdown format, which is often my preferred method.
My primary projects are now linked to Kanban boards, organized by categories like NOW, Next, Backlog, Maybe, and Links. Additionally, I’m using a Kanban board to prepare for an upcoming interstate trip, which includes sections for tasks to complete before and during the journey.
Obsidian's Kanban plugin has simplified my planning process, allowing me to manage tasks efficiently without needing a separate app. It provides the flexibility I need while keeping everything organized.
Chapter 4: Convenience of Auto Link Title
This handy plugin automatically formats pasted links into cleaner titles. For example, a raw link transforms into a reader-friendly title, saving time and enhancing the overall presentation of notes.
Other Plugins I Value
- Advanced Tables: Offers neat alignment and basic formulas
- Advanced URI: Streamlines text transfer from Drafts to Obsidian
- Banners: Adds visual appeal
- Calendar: Simple yet effective
- HotKeys: Customizable shortcuts for ease of use
- Music Notation: Useful for music-related notes
- Note Refactor: Facilitates the creation of new notes from existing ones
For additional insights, check out my post on "3 things you didn't know you could do with Obsidian," where I explore more advanced plugins.