How to Use Obsidian
A beginner-friendly guide to getting started with Obsidian in 2026.
Getting Started: Step by Step
Create your Obsidian account
Visit Obsidian's website and sign up for a free account. You'll need an email address to get started.
Set up your workspace
Once signed in, configure your Obsidian workspace. Set your preferences, invite team members if needed, and customize the interface to match your workflow.
Explore markdown
One of Obsidian's key features is markdown. Navigate to this feature and experiment with it to understand how it fits into your workflow.
Explore backlinks
One of Obsidian's key features is backlinks. Navigate to this feature and experiment with it to understand how it fits into your workflow.
Explore graph-view
One of Obsidian's key features is graph-view. Navigate to this feature and experiment with it to understand how it fits into your workflow.
Integrate with your existing tools
Connect Obsidian with the other tools you use daily. Most integrations can be set up in the settings or integrations panel.
Start using it for real work
Now that you're set up, start using Obsidian for actual tasks. The best way to learn is by doing — don't worry about getting everything perfect right away.
Pro Tips
- Start with the free plan or trial to explore Obsidian's capabilities before committing to a paid subscription.
- Use keyboard shortcuts to speed up your workflow — most tools have extensive shortcut systems.
- Check Obsidian's official documentation and community forums for advanced tips and best practices.
- Review your workflow after 2 weeks of use and adjust your setup based on what's working and what isn't.
Key Features to Explore
Alternatives to Consider
If Obsidian isn't the right fit, here are some similar tools:
Ready to Try Obsidian?
A knowledge base that works on local Markdown files.