Question: What is a backlink

[buhtz]

Sorry for asking this via Issue but I could not find a better place. I still asked that in forum.

I am new to Zettelkasten-method and work with zetteldeft (~ 10 real Zettel in it). My problem is that I do not understand the concept of backlinks especially in the context of zetteldeft. What is it and how to use it?

For me It makes no difference if I create a "normal" link or a backlink in a Zettel. Both links are pointing to the same Zettel.

From the meaning of the word I would assume that a "backlink" would create a bidirectional relation by default.

Let's assume I have opened Zettel A. I insert a backlink to Zettel B. A now has the link to B. But in A is a new and automatic created link (back) to A, too. But this does not happen also.

So what is backlinking about?

[EFLS]

I'll admit the term is confusing, and perhaps I should have thought of a different name.

A backlink is not special in any technical sense -- it's a plain Zetteldeft link, just like any other. I call a backlink as a link that refers "back" to a parent note, or any overarching note that can be seen as broader parent note. So it is used to indicate hierarchy, but it's not restrictive (as in: notes can have multiple backlinks).

Backlinks are not automatically created or anytying. They are simply a way to add structure to your web of notes.

I hope this clarifies things. Also, I've slightly modified the relevant note in zd-tutorial, so you might want to check it out: https://github.com/EFLS/zd-tutorial/blob/master/2020-09-22-0855%20Backlinks.org

EDIT: I've also replied to your question on the Zettelkasten forum, here https://forum.zettelkasten.de/discussion/comment/13048/#Comment_13048