Academic PKM template

Why did I create this template?

I've developed this system over a number of years to smoothly manage my life and work as an academic - first as a PhD student, and now as a university lecturer. Most importantly, I created this template because I couldn't find any existing templates for effectively integrating the Zettelkasten approach into a Notion workspace. (An intro to the Zettelkasten approach is available here: https://writingcooperative.com/zettelkasten-how-one-german-scholar-was-so-freakishly-productive-997e4e0ca125) 

What's inside the template?

The template combines both project and knowledge management, designed to support research, teaching and learning. It includes interlinked databases for tasks, projects, areas, references, resources, people and reading notes (the Zettelkasten), as well as a habit & mood tracker database. A dashboard presents views of each database useful for day-to-day work. There are also template pages for databases so that users can, for instance, enter into a focused view of a particular project and see at a glance relevant databases filtered to view content pertinent to that project.

How to use the template?

I have a full guide on how to use the template here: https://medium.com/@GenShanahan/phd-tips-the-project-and-knowledge-management-template-a7f67e94d9ae

What are the benefits of the template?

One of the main benefits of this system is the seamless integration of research, teaching, and learning activities, which are often closely related. For instance, you can easily monitor the progress of research projects while also keeping track of notes and materials related to specific courses you are teaching or taking. This helps maintain a holistic view of your work and ensures that you can make meaningful connections between different areas of your professional life.

The Zettelkasten method facilitates building a body of understanding and connections that serve as the basis for novel ideas. By taking a systematic approach to managing knowledge, this workspace enables the user to work more efficiently and effectively while enhancing creativity. Overall, this Notion workspace has been an invaluable tool for me as an academic, and I am confident that it could be a valuable resource for others looking to streamline their work and manage their personal and professional lives more effectively.