Summary Callout
When creating or editing markdown notes, include a summary callout at the beginning (after frontmatter if present) using > [!summary].
Structure
- Place at the top of the note, after frontmatter
- Format:
> [!summary]followed by the summary content - Length: 1–3 sentences, or 3–5 bullet points for complex topics
Content
- Capture the core idea without supporting detail
- Answer: What is it? and Why is it important?
- Include key relationships to other concepts when relevant
- Clear, direct, professional tone; active voice; present tense
- Avoid jargon unless essential
Formatting
- Use italics or bold for critical terms
- Use backticks for code/technical terms
- Use bullet points for complex summaries
- Include essential
[[wikilinks]]to related concepts only—don’t overload
By context
| Context | Focus |
|---|---|
| Technical concepts | What it is and its primary purpose |
| Entities | Type and key characteristics |
| Educational content | TL;DR with key insights and practical applications |
Do
- Make the summary stand alone as a quick reference
- Include all essential elements
- Revise when main content changes
- Keep formatting consistent across notes
Avoid
- Summaries that are mini-articles
- Vague phrasing (“This note is about X”)
- Too many links
- Duplicating the first paragraph
- Relying on external context the reader doesn’t have