**Created**:: [[2024-03-01 Friday]]
**Link**:: https://youtu.be/MGsplHhwoc8
**Duration**:: 8:05
# Summary
In this video, Zsolt discusses the significance of diagrams in Personal Knowledge Management (PKM), emphasizing that they enhance understanding and organization of concepts. He explains how diagrams can effectively convey time, arrangement, and context within PKM. The video also covers the characteristics of effective diagrams and offers recommendations for their use in improving visual communication.
# Key Takeaways
- Diagrams play a crucial role in visualizing and structuring knowledge in PKM, far beyond just writing and linking.
- Effective diagrams should focus on one idea, incorporate a mix of text and images, and be easy to reproduce simply.
- Different types of diagrams serve unique purposes in organizing information, such as timelines for temporal understanding, arrangement diagrams for spatial relationships, and context diagrams for comparing concepts.
# Content
Hey everyone, it's Zsolt here. Ever wondered why diagrams matter in PKM? Why should anyone in the PKM community care about diagrams? You know, at first, I thought talking about diagramming basics might be a bit boring, but then I realized something: I see so many poorly made diagrams that we need to talk about this. So I decided to take the risk and created this video. Today I'm diving into why I believe diagramming is crucial. I'll show you how diagrams can represent time, arrangement, and context, and what makes a good diagram. Let's kick things off by understanding what PKM is about. For me, it's about understanding the world, organizing concepts, and constantly challenging my worldview. But it's also about productivity, creating new content, and working with reusable Lego blocks. What does PKM mean to you? Share your thoughts below. [* ](https://youtu.be/MGsplHhwoc8)
Now you might be thinking: isn't PKM just about writing and linking? Well, sure, writing is a big part of it, but I believe we sometimes overlook the power of visuals. Writing is thinking, yes, but let's not forget that a picture speaks a thousand words. Pictures are powerful because illustrations catalyze spatial thinking. Even our language is spatial. Think about phrases like "to reach for a lofty goal" or "the future lies up ahead"—they paint a picture, don't they? However, not all pictures are created equal. Some clarify ideas and shape our thinking, while others just add to the mess. So what makes a good picture in PKM? Well, it's not just about aesthetics. Function matters too. Good PKM illustrations focus on one idea per illustration and use a mix of text and images. Plus, ideally, you should be able to draw it on a napkin when talking to a friend at Starbucks. [* ](https://youtu.be/MGsplHhwoc8)
Now onto the different types of illustrations. There are five main types: image plus text, text only, diagram, scene, and image only. Today, we are diving deep into the world of diagrams. But if you're interested in concept visuals, be sure to check out my video on the topic— you'll find the link in the description below. But what diagrams are relevant to PKM? Of course, there are the eight thinking maps by David Hyerle, but let's save that for another time. I recommend you check out my eight thinking maps playlist; the link is in the description. Instead, let's explore diagrams based on different frames of reference. Let's kick things off with time. Timelines are fantastic tools for grasping the past, present, and future. Whether it's for project timelines, daily schedules, or self-reflection, they've got you covered. They help us answer questions like when something is happening and how long is between this and that. Now let me show you my collection of timeline samples. I've gathered 15 different examples over the years—from horizontal to vertical, roadmaps to journey views, and even calendar and Gantt chart formats. We've got circular and spiral layouts, along with ones that illustrate the flow of events. [* ](https://youtu.be/MGsplHhwoc8)
Now, let's dive into the next category: arrangement. These diagrams give us insights into the placement of objects, their relationships, and overall structure. For instance, we have the blog diagram and brace map for sorting and categorizing ideas. Then there's the hierarchy diagram and tree map for things like organizational charts. We also have the floor plan, which serves as a visual representation of spatial arrangements, and lastly, the layout diagram, offering a clear picture of information organization on a page or website. Each type serves its unique purpose in organizing and presenting ideas effectively. [* ](https://youtu.be/MGsplHhwoc8)
And finally, let's explore context. These diagrams are pivotal for comparing ideas, grasping environments, and facilitating decision-making. They act as navigational tools through complex concepts, shedding light on various aspects. For instance, they help address questions like which option holds more promise or where we should channel our efforts. Among the 12 examples I'm showcasing here, we have the continuum to understand trade-offs, the quadrant diagram (such as the SWOT analysis and the Boston box) both instrumental in strategic planning. There's also the sign diagram for understanding feedback loops and system dynamics, alongside the circle map for contextual exploration. The double bubble map and Venn diagram are useful for comparing and contrasting, and the bubble map is for attribute visualization. Additionally, we have the mind map and concept map for understanding domains and the decision tree for visualizing decision points. On a related note, I have a dedicated video on making smarter decisions—check the link in the description below. Finally, we have the influence diagram for exploring stakeholder relations. [* ](https://youtu.be/MGsplHhwoc8)
In closing, let's look at what makes a good diagram, as outlined by Abby Covert in her book. Good diagrams have visual elements like scale, shapes, lines, labels, and keys. However, they also extend beyond the aesthetics to consider intention, audience, and scope. It's not just about pretty pictures; it's about conveying information effectively. In my experience, keys are often overlooked or confusing, especially when there's a series of diagrams with changing notations. My recommendation is to establish simple conventions for line types, colors, shapes, labels, etc. This is particularly crucial for reusing diagrams across multiple documents in your PKM. And please remember to include a key whenever possible to improve clarity. So there you have it—a crash course in diagrams for PKM. Choose one and give it a shot today. Share your experience in the comments below, and if you found this video helpful, don't forget to hit that like button. Thanks for tuning in, and I'll see you in the next one. And hey, if you stuck around till the end, you're awesome! Take care. [* ](https://youtu.be/MGsplHhwoc8)
# YouTube Details
## YouTube Description
🎁 You can access my collection of diagram samples here: https://excalidraw.com/#json=pwLtCkoKZVEkywvXNYjau,kbljw8nPClZPYrv5xJiSUA
✏️ Sign up for the Visual Thinking Workshop: https://www.visual-thinking-workshop.com/
🚀 Cohort 8 starts on 6 April 2024. 📔 We will process Atomic Habits by James Clear into a Book on a Page
-----
This video was created with Obsidian.md and the Excalidraw plugins using the Slideshow script (https://youtu.be/JwgtCrIVeEU)
-----
part 1 - Why diagrams matter in PKM: https://youtu.be/MGsplHhwoc8
part 2 - Concept modelling: https://youtu.be/Zg_DUj68VkY
part 2b - Concept modelling with Nick Milo (notemaking): https://youtu.be/ztCup77A77A
part 3 - Systems Thinking with Object Process Modeling: https://youtu.be/se7odslzd5U
part 4 - Futures Wheel of Quitting my Job: https://youtu.be/Y5u7ggrxM1k
part 5 - Sun Ray Transformation Map: https://youtu.be/Y-cZrWlRAWc
-----
In this video, I delve into the significance of diagrams in Personal Knowledge Management (PKM). Starting with an exploration of what PKM means to me, I highlight how diagrams serve as powerful tools for understanding complex concepts, organizing information, and enhancing productivity. Through practical examples and insights, I showcase various types of diagrams relevant to PKM, including timelines, arrangement diagrams, and context diagrams. Additionally, I discuss the key elements that make a good diagram and offer tips for incorporating them effectively into your PKM workflow. Join me on this journey as we unlock the transformative potential of diagrams in PKM!
-----
If you find my videos helpful, please say thanks by buying me a coffee: https://ko-fi.com/zsolt
📩 If you want to connect, you can reach me: (@zsviczian) on the Obsidian Members Group (OMG) on Discord, or on 🐦 Twitter: https://twitter.com/zsviczian
-----
Timestamps:
[00:00](https://youtu.be/MGsplHhwoc8?t=0) Intro, Why this video
[00:46](https://youtu.be/MGsplHhwoc8?t=46) What PKM is about...
[01:12](https://youtu.be/MGsplHhwoc8?t=72) Isn't PKM all about writing and linking?
[01:51](https://youtu.be/MGsplHhwoc8?t=111) What makes a good illustration?
[02:27](https://youtu.be/MGsplHhwoc8?t=147) 5 types of illustrations
[02:54](https://youtu.be/MGsplHhwoc8?t=174) What diagrams are relevant to PKM?
[03:20](https://youtu.be/MGsplHhwoc8?t=200) Diagrams centered around TIME
[04:11](https://youtu.be/MGsplHhwoc8?t=251) Diagrams centered around ARRANGEMENT
[05:02](https://youtu.be/MGsplHhwoc8?t=302) Diagrams centered around CONTEXT
[06:35](https://youtu.be/MGsplHhwoc8?t=395) What makes a good diagram?
[07:38](https://youtu.be/MGsplHhwoc8?t=458) Closing remarks
-------
🍿Watch next:
📽️ Mastering Concept Visualizations https://youtu.be/MTdbhePtCco
📽️ 8 Thinking Maps playlist https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL6mqgtMZ4NP2VJULuSi0D2-CgK30Hh_0F
📽️ Visualize Your Options: A Step-by-Step Guide to Using Flowcharts for Decision-Making https://youtu.be/cxjUat86Hyk
📽️ Getting Started with Excalidraw https://youtu.be/QKnQgSjJVuc
📽️ Getting Started with ExcaliBrain https://youtu.be/8LE_QdYQZVk
📽️ Knowledge Discovery Using Icons https://youtu.be/_OEljzZ33H8
📽️ Idea Integration Board https://youtu.be/Lq2ZKDF9gOQ
📽️ 6 Strategies for Linking Visual Thoughts https://youtu.be/qiKuqMcNWgU
📽️ 4D PKM https://youtu.be/3S3oIsaK17U
📽️ Visually Connect Ideas https://youtu.be/mvMQcz401yo
📽️ Idea Mixer https://youtu.be/ItV8PEaPorE
📽️ How are these related? https://youtu.be/N6EFydv0tug
---------
PKM Summit: https://pkmsummit.com/
Visual Thinking Workshop: https://www.visual-thinking-workshop.com/
My blog: https://zsolt.blog/
Obsidian: https://obsidian.md
Excalidraw-Obsidian: https://github.com/zsviczian/obsidian-excalidraw-plugin/
## YouTube Transcript
[hey everyone it's jolt here ever](https://youtu.be/MGsplHhwoc8?t=0) [wondered why diagrams matter in PKM why](https://youtu.be/MGsplHhwoc8?t=3) [should anyone in the PKM community care](https://youtu.be/MGsplHhwoc8?t=7) [about](https://youtu.be/MGsplHhwoc8?t=10) [diagrams you know at first I thought](https://youtu.be/MGsplHhwoc8?t=11) [talking about diagramming Basics might](https://youtu.be/MGsplHhwoc8?t=14) [be a bit boring but then I realize](https://youtu.be/MGsplHhwoc8?t=16) [something I see so many poorly made](https://youtu.be/MGsplHhwoc8?t=19) [diagrams that we need to talk about this](https://youtu.be/MGsplHhwoc8?t=22) [so I decided to take the risk and](https://youtu.be/MGsplHhwoc8?t=26) [created this video](https://youtu.be/MGsplHhwoc8?t=28) [today I'm diving into why I believe](https://youtu.be/MGsplHhwoc8?t=31) [diagramming is crucial I'll show you how](https://youtu.be/MGsplHhwoc8?t=34) [diagrams can represent time Arrangement](https://youtu.be/MGsplHhwoc8?t=38) [and context and what makes a good](https://youtu.be/MGsplHhwoc8?t=41) [diagram let's kick things off by](https://youtu.be/MGsplHhwoc8?t=46) [understanding what PKM is about for me](https://youtu.be/MGsplHhwoc8?t=49) [it's about understanding the world like](https://youtu.be/MGsplHhwoc8?t=53) [organizing Concepts and constantly](https://youtu.be/MGsplHhwoc8?t=55) [challenging my worldview but it's also](https://youtu.be/MGsplHhwoc8?t=58) [about productivity creating new content](https://youtu.be/MGsplHhwoc8?t=61) [and working with reusable Lego](https://youtu.be/MGsplHhwoc8?t=64) [blocks what does PKM mean to you share](https://youtu.be/MGsplHhwoc8?t=67) [your thoughts](https://youtu.be/MGsplHhwoc8?t=70) [below now you might be thinking isn't](https://youtu.be/MGsplHhwoc8?t=71) [PKM just about writing and linking well](https://youtu.be/MGsplHhwoc8?t=74) [sure writing is a big part of it but I](https://youtu.be/MGsplHhwoc8?t=78) [believe we sometimes Overlook the power](https://youtu.be/MGsplHhwoc8?t=81) [of visuals writing is thinking yes but](https://youtu.be/MGsplHhwoc8?t=84) [let's not for forget that a picture](https://youtu.be/MGsplHhwoc8?t=89) [speaks a thousand](https://youtu.be/MGsplHhwoc8?t=91) [words pictures are powerful because](https://youtu.be/MGsplHhwoc8?t=93) [illustrations catalyze spatial thinking](https://youtu.be/MGsplHhwoc8?t=96) [even our language is spatial think about](https://youtu.be/MGsplHhwoc8?t=100) [phrases like the reach for a lofty goal](https://youtu.be/MGsplHhwoc8?t=103) [or the future lies up ahead they paint a](https://youtu.be/MGsplHhwoc8?t=105) [picture don't they however not all](https://youtu.be/MGsplHhwoc8?t=109) [pictures are created equal some clarify](https://youtu.be/MGsplHhwoc8?t=114) [ideas and shape our thinking while](https://youtu.be/MGsplHhwoc8?t=117) [others just add to the mess so what](https://youtu.be/MGsplHhwoc8?t=120) [makes a good picture in](https://youtu.be/MGsplHhwoc8?t=123) [PKM well it's not just about a Statics](https://youtu.be/MGsplHhwoc8?t=125) [functions matter to good PKM](https://youtu.be/MGsplHhwoc8?t=129) [illustrations focus on one idea per](https://youtu.be/MGsplHhwoc8?t=133) [illustration and use a mix of text and](https://youtu.be/MGsplHhwoc8?t=136) [images plus ideally you should be able](https://youtu.be/MGsplHhwoc8?t=139) [to draw it on a napkin when talking to a](https://youtu.be/MGsplHhwoc8?t=143) [friend at](https://youtu.be/MGsplHhwoc8?t=145) [Starbucks now onto the different type of](https://youtu.be/MGsplHhwoc8?t=147) [illustrations there are five main types](https://youtu.be/MGsplHhwoc8?t=150) [image plus text text only diagram scene](https://youtu.be/MGsplHhwoc8?t=154) [and image only today we are diving deep](https://youtu.be/MGsplHhwoc8?t=158) [into the world of diagrams but if you're](https://youtu.be/MGsplHhwoc8?t=162) [interested in concept visuals be sure to](https://youtu.be/MGsplHhwoc8?t=165) [check out my video on the topic you'll](https://youtu.be/MGsplHhwoc8?t=168) [find the link in the description](https://youtu.be/MGsplHhwoc8?t=171) [below but what diagrams are relevant to](https://youtu.be/MGsplHhwoc8?t=174) [PKM of course of course there are the](https://youtu.be/MGsplHhwoc8?t=178) [eight thinking maps by David Hurley but](https://youtu.be/MGsplHhwoc8?t=180) [let's save that for another time I](https://youtu.be/MGsplHhwoc8?t=183) [recommend you check out my eight](https://youtu.be/MGsplHhwoc8?t=186) [thinking maps playlist the link is in](https://youtu.be/MGsplHhwoc8?t=188) [the](https://youtu.be/MGsplHhwoc8?t=191) [description instead let's explore](https://youtu.be/MGsplHhwoc8?t=192) [diagrams based on different frames of](https://youtu.be/MGsplHhwoc8?t=195) [reference let's kick things off with](https://youtu.be/MGsplHhwoc8?t=199) [time timelines are fantastic tools for](https://youtu.be/MGsplHhwoc8?t=202) [grasping the past present and future](https://youtu.be/MGsplHhwoc8?t=205) [whether it's for project timelines daily](https://youtu.be/MGsplHhwoc8?t=208) [schedules or self-reflection they've got](https://youtu.be/MGsplHhwoc8?t=211) [you covered they help us answer](https://youtu.be/MGsplHhwoc8?t=213) [questions like when is something](https://youtu.be/MGsplHhwoc8?t=216) [happening and how long is between this](https://youtu.be/MGsplHhwoc8?t=219) [and that now let me show you my](https://youtu.be/MGsplHhwoc8?t=222) [collection of timeline samples I've](https://youtu.be/MGsplHhwoc8?t=226) [gathered 15 different examples over the](https://youtu.be/MGsplHhwoc8?t=228) [years from horizontal to](https://youtu.be/MGsplHhwoc8?t=232) [Vertical road map to Journey views and](https://youtu.be/MGsplHhwoc8?t=235) [even calendar and G chart formats we've](https://youtu.be/MGsplHhwoc8?t=238) [got circular and spiral layouts along](https://youtu.be/MGsplHhwoc8?t=242) [with ones that illustrate the flow of](https://youtu.be/MGsplHhwoc8?t=246) [events now let's dive into the next](https://youtu.be/MGsplHhwoc8?t=249) [category](https://youtu.be/MGsplHhwoc8?t=252) [Arrangement these diagrams give us](https://youtu.be/MGsplHhwoc8?t=254) [insights into the placement of objects](https://youtu.be/MGsplHhwoc8?t=257) [their relationships and overall](https://youtu.be/MGsplHhwoc8?t=260) [structure for instance we have the blog](https://youtu.be/MGsplHhwoc8?t=263) [diagram and brace map for sorting and](https://youtu.be/MGsplHhwoc8?t=265) [categor in ideas then there's the](https://youtu.be/MGsplHhwoc8?t=269) [hierarchy diagram and tree map for](https://youtu.be/MGsplHhwoc8?t=271) [things like organizational charts we](https://youtu.be/MGsplHhwoc8?t=275) [also have the floor plan which serves as](https://youtu.be/MGsplHhwoc8?t=278) [a visual representation of spatial](https://youtu.be/MGsplHhwoc8?t=281) [arrangements and lastly the layout](https://youtu.be/MGsplHhwoc8?t=284) [diagram offering a clear picture of](https://youtu.be/MGsplHhwoc8?t=286) [information organization on a page or](https://youtu.be/MGsplHhwoc8?t=290) [website each type serves its unique](https://youtu.be/MGsplHhwoc8?t=294) [purpose in organizing and presenting](https://youtu.be/MGsplHhwoc8?t=297) [ideas](https://youtu.be/MGsplHhwoc8?t=300) [effectively and finally let's explore](https://youtu.be/MGsplHhwoc8?t=302) [context these diagrams are pivotal for](https://youtu.be/MGsplHhwoc8?t=305) [comparing ideas grasping environments](https://youtu.be/MGsplHhwoc8?t=308) [and facilitating decision making they](https://youtu.be/MGsplHhwoc8?t=311) [act as navigational tools through](https://youtu.be/MGsplHhwoc8?t=314) [complex Concepts shedding light on](https://youtu.be/MGsplHhwoc8?t=316) [various aspects for instance they help](https://youtu.be/MGsplHhwoc8?t=319) [address questions like which option](https://youtu.be/MGsplHhwoc8?t=322) [holds more promise or where should we](https://youtu.be/MGsplHhwoc8?t=325) [Channel our efforts](https://youtu.be/MGsplHhwoc8?t=328) [among the 12 examples I'm showcasing](https://youtu.be/MGsplHhwoc8?t=330) [here we have the Continuum to understand](https://youtu.be/MGsplHhwoc8?t=333) [tradeoffs the quadrant diagram such as](https://youtu.be/MGsplHhwoc8?t=336) [the SWAT analysis and the Boston box](https://youtu.be/MGsplHhwoc8?t=339) [both instrumental in strategic](https://youtu.be/MGsplHhwoc8?t=343) [planning there's also the sign diagram](https://youtu.be/MGsplHhwoc8?t=346) [for understanding feedback loops and](https://youtu.be/MGsplHhwoc8?t=349) [System Dynamics alongside with the](https://youtu.be/MGsplHhwoc8?t=352) [circle map for contextual exploration](https://youtu.be/MGsplHhwoc8?t=355) [the Double Bubble map and Van diagram to](https://youtu.be/MGsplHhwoc8?t=358) [compare and](https://youtu.be/MGsplHhwoc8?t=361) [contrast and the bubble map for](https://youtu.be/MGsplHhwoc8?t=363) [attribute](https://youtu.be/MGsplHhwoc8?t=366) [visualization additionally we have the](https://youtu.be/MGsplHhwoc8?t=368) [Mind map and concept map for](https://youtu.be/MGsplHhwoc8?t=371) [understanding domains and the decision](https://youtu.be/MGsplHhwoc8?t=373) [tree for visualizing decision points on](https://youtu.be/MGsplHhwoc8?t=376) [a related note I have a dedicated video](https://youtu.be/MGsplHhwoc8?t=379) [on making smarter decisions check the](https://youtu.be/MGsplHhwoc8?t=382) [link in the description below finally we](https://youtu.be/MGsplHhwoc8?t=385) [have the influence diagram for exploring](https://youtu.be/MGsplHhwoc8?t=389) [stakeholder](https://youtu.be/MGsplHhwoc8?t=392) [relations in closing let's look at what](https://youtu.be/MGsplHhwoc8?t=394) [makes a good diagram as outlined by Abby](https://youtu.be/MGsplHhwoc8?t=397) [covert in stock good diagrams have](https://youtu.be/MGsplHhwoc8?t=401) [visual elements like scale shapes lines](https://youtu.be/MGsplHhwoc8?t=404) [labels and keys however they also extend](https://youtu.be/MGsplHhwoc8?t=407) [beyond the Statics to consider intention](https://youtu.be/MGsplHhwoc8?t=411) [audience and scope it's not just about](https://youtu.be/MGsplHhwoc8?t=414) [pretty pictures it's about conveying](https://youtu.be/MGsplHhwoc8?t=418) [information](https://youtu.be/MGsplHhwoc8?t=420) [effectively in my experience keys are](https://youtu.be/MGsplHhwoc8?t=421) [often overlooked or confusing especially](https://youtu.be/MGsplHhwoc8?t=425) [when there's a series of diagrams with](https://youtu.be/MGsplHhwoc8?t=428) [changing notations my recommendation is](https://youtu.be/MGsplHhwoc8?t=431) [to establish simple conventions for line](https://youtu.be/MGsplHhwoc8?t=434) [types colors shapes labels Etc this is](https://youtu.be/MGsplHhwoc8?t=437) [particularly crucial for reusing](https://youtu.be/MGsplHhwoc8?t=442) [diagrams across multiple documents in](https://youtu.be/MGsplHhwoc8?t=444) [your PKM and please remember to include](https://youtu.be/MGsplHhwoc8?t=447) [a key whenever possible to improve](https://youtu.be/MGsplHhwoc8?t=451) [Clarity so there you have it a crash](https://youtu.be/MGsplHhwoc8?t=456) [course in diagrams for PKM choose one](https://youtu.be/MGsplHhwoc8?t=459) [and give it a shot today share your](https://youtu.be/MGsplHhwoc8?t=463) [experience in the comments below and if](https://youtu.be/MGsplHhwoc8?t=466) [you found this video helpful don't](https://youtu.be/MGsplHhwoc8?t=468) [forget to hit that like button thanks](https://youtu.be/MGsplHhwoc8?t=471) [for tuning in and I'll see you in the](https://youtu.be/MGsplHhwoc8?t=474) [next one and hey if you stock around](https://youtu.be/MGsplHhwoc8?t=477) [till the end you're awesome take care](https://youtu.be/MGsplHhwoc8?t=480)