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Anne-Marie Kirwan

Tools I use for my PKM System

November 2, 2025

Tools I use for my PKM System

Photo:
Photo: Brett Jordan

My number one rule is to use tools that fulfill my needs. I used to go from one shiny app to another like a magpie, hoping to find The One. I also previously went all-in on Notion for everything. Now I can say that I’m definitely very comfortable with what I currently use. I’ve also learned that my work and personal needs are different, so my tool stack for those areas is not the same.

There is no such thing as one tool for everything without a certain amount of friction or the need for workarounds to make up for missing features. That’s totally fine. It just depends on how much you’re willing to put up with.

“My number one rule is to use tools that fulfill my needs. I used to go from one shiny app to another like a magpie, hoping to find The One.”

Key components and features for me

  1. Export / import
  2. Discoverability - the ability to be able to resurface notes without friction
  3. It fulfills my particular need well and is regularly developed
  4. Mobile - I need to be able to capture things on the go

The tools that I'm using

Notebook, Post-it Notes, Index Cards, Wall Calendar, and Whiteboard

Although I use digital tools, I still get great satisfaction when I move away from a screen. Working things out on paper or on the nearest blank wall is always my first step when gathering my thoughts.

Twos

I only use Twos for simple task management, even though it is feature rich. It also has one of the best AI chatbots I’ve seen in a tool.

Obsidian

Obsidian is my journal and personal notes app of choice. The app’s local first approach is a big part of why I love it. If something happens and Obsidian shuts down, I still have all my data.

Obsidian is well-developed with regular updates. Recently, they added their version of Notion's database. I can now keep track of all the media I consume and write my reviews.

Part of my album review database.
Part of my album review database.

Supernotes

Supernotes is what Google Keep could be. You can use different types of formatting in one card with Supernotes. It also works with Markdown and includes backlinks.

Supernotes has a card layout similar to Google Keep, but more flexible.
Supernotes has a card layout similar to Google Keep, but more flexible.

Proton Suite

I’ve made a conscious decision to move away from Google where possible. Proton is the complete opposite of Google, as it’s privacy first. Though they do have documents, they have yet to add slides and spreadsheets.

Zen Browser

Unfortunately, Arc Browser is no longer in development. Zen Browser is the closest there is to Arc. It’s open source and runs on Firefox. The only drawback is that it’s not available on mobile.

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Anne-Marie Kirwan © 2025. Digital by Matt Downey. Crafted using Notion & Super.

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