My minimal Obsidian setup: flat file structure, four plugins, and no folders

From r/ObsidianMD 📅 • 📊 113 upvotes • ⭐ 8/10 • 🚀 high
*Analysis generated: Mar 2, 2026*
🔗 Source: View on Reddit
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Summary

The author shares a minimalist Obsidian setup utilizing a flat file structure, four core plugins (QuickSwitcher++, Natural Language Dates, QuickAdd, and Button Maker), Bases as an inbox (replacing Dataview), and a CLAUDE.md file for AI assistance. They provide screen recordings and links to a detailed write-up and a GitHub example vault.

Key Insights

1. Flat file structures can be effective for PKM.
2. Bases can serve as a viable inbox alternative to Dataview.
3. Integrating AI tools like Claude directly into Obsidian workflow is promising.
4. Minimalism can enhance Obsidian usability.

Enhancement Suggestions

No enhancement suggestions available

Analysis

This post presents a compelling alternative to folder-based organization, demonstrating a functional and streamlined workflow. The use of Bases as an inbox is a noteworthy substitution for Dataview, and the inclusion of an AI-assisted note file is forward-thinking.
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*Curated by AI for Paul’s Vault Members*