What is Logseq?

Logseq is a versatile knowledge management and note-taking application designed as an open toolbox for handling complex information workflows. It functions as a personal knowledge base where users can capture, connect, and review their thoughts, notes, and data. Unlike linear note-taking apps, Logseq uses a block-based outliner structure combined with bidirectional linking, allowing ideas to interlink naturally. This creates a networked graph of knowledge where relationships between concepts become visible and navigable. The core philosophy centers on giving users complete ownership and control over their data, storing everything locally in plain text Markdown files. This makes notes future-proof and accessible with other tools. Logseq supports various workflows including task management, PDF annotation, creating flashcards, and using whiteboards, positioning itself as a comprehensive platform for students, researchers, writers, and professionals who deal with large amounts of interconnected information.

Main Features

1. Bidirectional Linking: Automatically creates connections between notes and ideas, building a personal knowledge graph.

2. Block-Based Outliner: Organize thoughts in nested, collapsible blocks for structured yet flexible note-taking.

3. Local-First & Open Source: Data is stored locally on your device in open Markdown format, ensuring privacy and control.

4. Powerful Query System: Use built-in queries to dynamically generate tables and lists of related information from across your notes.

5. Flashcards & Spaced Repetition: Integrated system for creating flashcards from your notes to aid memorization.

6. PDF Annotation: Highlight and annotate PDFs directly within the app, linking annotations to your notes.

7. Whiteboards (Beta): An infinite canvas to visually arrange and connect thoughts from your knowledge base.

8. Extensive Plugin Ecosystem: Over 150 community plugins to extend functionality for custom workflows.

9. Theme Customization: More than 30 themes to personalize the look and feel of the application.

10. Cross-Platform Sync (Beta): Encrypted syncing service to keep notes updated across desktop and mobile devices.

Use Cases

1. Academic Research: Capture and connect literature notes, class materials, and research ideas using linked references.

2. Task & Project Management: Manage todos and projects within a knowledge context using queries and backlinks.

3. Writing & Content Creation: Outline essays, articles, or books by organizing and linking thoughts with block references.

4. Personal Knowledge Management: Build a second brain to store interests, quotes, meeting notes, and insights for long-term review.

5. Studying & Memorization: Create flashcards from notes to remember facts and concepts using spaced repetition.

6. Meeting & Relationship Management: Track conversations, meeting notes, and follow-ups linked to people and projects.

7. Visual Thinking: Use whiteboards to brainstorm and visually map connections between different concepts in your database.

Supported Languages

1. The application interface is translated into many languages by the community, including but not limited to English, Chinese, Spanish, German, French, Japanese, and Korean. The core content (your notes) can be written in any language.

Pricing Plans

1. Personal Use: Free forever. Includes all core features like local note-taking, bidirectional linking, queries, plugins, and themes.

2. Logseq Sync (Beta): Subscription service for encrypted syncing across devices. Pricing details are not explicitly listed on the main website; users are directed to the app or account settings for current subscription options.

3. The software is open-source, and the developers emphasize that the core application will remain free for personal use.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Q: Is Logseq really free?

A: Yes, Logseq is free and open-source for personal use. You own your data locally forever.

2. Q: Where is my data stored?

A: By default, all your notes are stored locally on your device as plain text Markdown files, ensuring privacy and portability.

3. Q: Can I use Logseq on mobile?

A: Yes, Logseq offers mobile applications for both iOS and Android devices.

4. Q: How do I sync my notes across devices?

A: You can use the optional Logseq Sync service (beta) for encrypted syncing, or use third-party cloud storage services like iCloud, Dropbox, or Git.

5. Q: Can I import my notes from other apps?

A: Yes, because notes are standard Markdown files, you can easily import from or export to other Markdown-compatible tools.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

1. Powerful bidirectional linking and query system for connecting ideas.

2. Strong commitment to privacy with local-first, open-source data storage.

3. Highly customizable through a vast library of plugins and themes.

4. Flexible workflow support for tasks, flashcards, PDFs, and whiteboards.

5. Future-proof data format using plain text Markdown files.

Cons:

1. Steeper learning curve compared