#+title: Atomic Notes
#+date: 2024-01-11
#+filetags: :concept:writing:

An atomic note contains exactly one idea, fully expressed.

* Characteristics

- Self-contained
- Single focus
- Linkable
- Reusable

* Benefits

When notes are atomic:

- Easy to link from multiple contexts
- Simple to reorganize
- Clear to understand
- Quick to write

* Examples

Good atomic note titles:
- "Spaced repetition improves long-term retention"
- "Links create unexpected connections"
- "Writing clarifies thinking"

Bad titles:
- "Notes about learning"
- "Stuff I read"

* Connection to Other Concepts

Atomic notes are the foundation of [[file:zettelkasten.org][Zettelkasten]] and enable effective [[file:linking.org][Linking]].

This principle comes from software engineering - see cite:martin2008 on the Single Responsibility Principle.