# Mastering Obsidian: Quick Access to Notes on Your Mac
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Chapter 1: Introduction
Imagine you're working on your Mac and suddenly remember a note you need to add to your daily log in Obsidian. Typically, this process includes switching between applications, getting sidetracked by open documents, and then searching for your daily note. While this routine isn't complex, wouldn’t it be more efficient to simplify it to a single step?
In this guide, we'll explore how to instantly access any note in your vault from any location on your Mac. Think of it as teleporting to your favorite section of a library while conveniently avoiding distractions like a tempting donut shop or a chatty acquaintance along the way.
Chapter 1.1: Required Tools
To follow this tutorial, you'll need two plugins and one paid application for your Mac:
- Periodic Notes Plugin
- Hotkeys for Specific Files Plugin
- Keyboard Maestro App (Offers a free trial, but the $36 one-time fee is highly recommended)
If you're apprehensive about using Keyboard Maestro, don’t worry; no previous experience is necessary to follow along.
For those who use Alfred Powerpack, there's a workflow you might find beneficial. Additionally, if you're a Setapp subscriber, consider using KeySmith as an alternative.
Chapter 1.2: Setting Up Hotkeys
To configure hotkeys for the Periodic Notes plugin, navigate to Preferences > Hotkeys and search for "periodic notes." For instance, I'm currently using Command + Option + right square bracket (⌘ + ⌥ + ]) to access my daily note and Command + Option + period (⌘ + ⌥ + .) for my weekly note.
Next, set hotkeys for your specific files by indicating their locations. In the Settings menu, select the Hotkeys for Specific Files plugin from the sidebar. Click the Create button and enter the path to your desired file. For example, you might enter "This file" or "Subfolder/This file." After installing and enabling the plugin, go to Settings > Community plugins > Browse > Hotkeys for Specific Files, click on the Hotkeys button, and assign a hotkey for each file you've defined.
Chapter 2: Crafting the Macro
Now that your preferred files have their dedicated hotkeys, it's time to program Keyboard Maestro to take you straight to these notes, regardless of the application you're using.
Start by creating a new macro (⌘ + N) and naming it according to the Obsidian file it will open. For example, my daily note is triggered by typing the string “;obd,” but you can also assign a hotkey like Command + Control + D (⌘ + ⌃ + D). I prefer using typed strings to avoid conflicts with other system hotkeys.
Click New Action at the bottom of the right panel and select "Activate a Specific Application" from the Actions palette. Choose Obsidian from the dropdown list. Then, click New Action again and add "Type a Keystroke." In the field for Simulate keystroke, enter the hotkey for your target file.
Now, whenever you input the trigger or hotkey you set up, the macro will spring into action!
Chapter 2.1: Opening Multiple Files
I've also created a macro that enables me to open my daily and weekly notes side-by-side. While Obsidian's workspaces can save configurations of open files, the process involves multiple steps:
- Open the app.
- Click on the Manage Workspace Layouts button.
- Select your workspace from the list.
To streamline this, I've set up a macro that eliminates this friction.
To configure the macro for opening two notes in separate panes, follow these steps:
- Select the last action (Simulate keystroke) and copy it (⌘ + C), then paste it (⌘ + V) right below.
- With the field selected, press Option + S (⌥ + S) to instruct Obsidian to open a new blank pane.
- Paste another Simulate keystroke action and input the hotkey for your second target file.
Chapter 3: Troubleshooting Tips
If you find that Obsidian is already open and displaying several panes when running the macro, it may create a cluttered workspace. To remedy this, add a repeating action to close any existing panes before opening your desired files.
It's also wise to include a pause after activating Obsidian, as it may need a moment to prepare for the rest of the macro, especially if the app wasn't already open.
Chapter 4: Expanding Your Automation Toolkit
While you might be able to replicate this Keyboard Maestro macro in Apple Shortcuts, it would require some AppleScript or JavaScript for additional capabilities. If that’s outside your comfort zone, consider sticking with Keyboard Maestro, as it can significantly enhance your productivity.
I began as a complete novice, but Keyboard Maestro has since become my go-to tool for automating repetitive tasks on my Mac. The best way to approach this application as a beginner is to identify specific tasks you want to automate and focus on mastering those. For those looking to delve deeper into Mac automation, I recommend David Sparks' Keyboard Maestro Field Guide.