
1. Overview of the INKP Note System#
1.1 Concept of INKP#
INKP emphasizes exploring the connections between different concepts through hierarchical organization of conceptual notes to enhance understanding of complex knowledge.
1.2 Core Principles#
The INKP system is based on three core principles:
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Everything is centered around "use": Note-taking is for practical use; notes that are not used have no value.
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Focus on "themes": Themes are projects; the purpose of note-taking is to support the theme.
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Establish habits: Regularly review, organize, apply, and archive.
 
1.3 System Architecture#
The INKP system consists of four core modules:
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I (Inbox): A collection box for gathering fragmented information.
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N (Note): A library for storing complete reference notes.
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K (Knowledge): A knowledge base that organizes notes thematically.
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P (Project): A project library for actual output and application.
 
2. Detailed Explanation of the Four INKP Modules#
2.1 Inbox#
Functionality: Collect any fragmented information obtained at any time and in any way.
Operational Points:
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Record with keywords to quickly capture information.
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No need for complete structure; focus on timely collection.
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Regularly clean up to avoid information accumulation.
 
Practical Suggestions:
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Use mobile tools for quick collection at any time.
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Tag each piece of information with keywords for easier organization later.
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Set fixed times for Inbox cleanup.
 
2.2 Note#
Functionality: Store complete notes that have been organized from the Inbox.
Feature Requirements:
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Must have complete time, title, and context.
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Rephrase in your own words.
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Clear structure for easy referencing.
 
Organization Process:
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Select valuable information from the Inbox.
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Rephrase in your own words.
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Supplement with complete background and context.
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Tag sources and time.
 
2.3 Knowledge#
Functionality: Thematic organization of notes from the Note module, which is the core of the system.
Organization Principles:
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Organize around specific themes or purposes.
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Link related reference notes through citations.
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Form a knowledge network to support project needs.
 
Construction Methods:
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Identify commonly used thematic areas.
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Establish a framework for thematic notes.
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Link relevant reference notes to corresponding themes.
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Regularly update and refine thematic content.
 
2.4 Project#
Functionality: Actual output and application scenarios.
Application Forms:
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Article writing.
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Speech preparation.
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Work reports.
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Learning summaries.
 
3. Practical Process of the INKP System#
3.1 Five-Step Workflow#
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Collect: Quickly record fragmented information into the Inbox.
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Refine: Organize Inbox content into complete reference notes.
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Organize: Organize reference notes into Knowledge by theme.
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Apply: Conduct actual output and application based on thematic notes.
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Archive: Archive or delete notes that have been fully utilized.
 
3.2 Five-Step Knowledge Digestion Method#
For processing conceptual notes, INKP proposes a specialized digestion method:
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Extract Original Text: Record original information.
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Cite Sources: Tag the source of information.
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Write Insights: Record personal thoughts.
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Provide Examples: Offer specific instances.
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Find Connections: Establish links with other knowledge.
 
4. Implementation of INKP in Different Tools#
4.1 Implementation in Modern Dual-Link Note Tools#
Obsidian Implementation Plan:
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Create four main folders corresponding to INKP modules.
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Use bidirectional links to establish a knowledge network.
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Utilize plugins to enhance functionality (e.g., journaling, templates).
 
Heptabase Implementation Plan:
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Use whiteboard features to visualize knowledge structure.
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Journal function corresponds to Inbox.
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Card system corresponds to Note and Knowledge.
 
4.2 Implementation in Lightweight Tools#
flomo Implementation Plan:
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Use a tagging system to differentiate between modules.
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Classify using tags like #inbox, #note, #knowledge, etc.
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Utilize review functions for regular organization.
 
5. Advantages and Limitations of the INKP System#
5.1 Main Advantages#
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Clear Goal Orientation: Aimed at practical application, avoiding ineffective accumulation.
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Clear Structure: Four modules each have their own roles, with a clear process.
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Knowledge Flow: Achieves a complete loop from collection to application.
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Flexible Adaptation: Can be implemented in various tools.
 
5.2 Existing Limitations#
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Higher Learning Cost: Requires time to establish habits and processes.
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High Maintenance Workload: Needs regular organization and review.
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Limited Applicability: More suitable for professional researchers and content creators.
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Tool Dependency: Implementation effects vary significantly across different tools.
 
6. Practical Suggestions and Best Practices#
6.1 Beginner Suggestions#
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Start Simple: First establish the basic four categories, then gradually improve.
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Choose Suitable Tools: Select note-taking tools based on personal needs.
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Establish Habits: Set fixed times for organization and review.
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Emphasize Application: Ensure knowledge can be practically output and used.
 
6.2 Advanced Practices#
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Establish Templates: Create standard templates for different types of notes.
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Use Automation: Improve efficiency through automation features of tools.
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Regular Evaluation: Assess the effectiveness of the system and adjust in a timely manner.
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Knowledge Network: Emphasize the connections between knowledge and build a knowledge map.
 
6.3 Common Issues and Solutions#
Issue 1: Inbox Information Accumulation
- Solution: Set fixed cleanup times daily or weekly.
 
Issue 2: Difficulty Establishing Thematic Notes
- Solution: Start from actual project needs and gradually identify themes.
 
Issue 3: Heavy Maintenance Burden of the System
- Solution: Simplify processes and emphasize the use of automation tools.