Bug 505324

Summary: Feature Request: Automatic ID Generation for Zettelkasten (YYYYMMDDHHMM Format)
Product: [Applications] Marknote Reporter: Javierinsitu <javierschulz>
Component: GeneralAssignee: mbruchert <mbb>
Status: REPORTED ---    
Severity: wishlist CC: carl, mbb
Priority: NOR    
Version First Reported In: unspecified   
Target Milestone: ---   
Platform: Arch Linux   
OS: Linux   
Latest Commit: Version Fixed/Implemented In:
Sentry Crash Report:

Description Javierinsitu 2025-06-08 04:19:54 UTC
I am requesting the addition of automatic ID generation for notes, specifically in the YYYYMMDDHHMM format, which is very useful for implementing a Zettelkasten system.

Problem:
Currently, Marknotes does not provide an automated way to generate unique IDs for notes. This is a common practice in Zettelkasten methodologies, where these IDs serve as stable, time-based identifiers that facilitate linking and organization. Without automatic ID generation, users must manually create and manage these IDs, which is time-consuming and prone to errors.

Proposed Solution:
Implement an option within Marknotes to automatically generate IDs for new notes in the format YYYYMMDDHHMM (YearMonthDayHourMinute). For example, a note created on May 31, 2025, at 12:30 PM would have the ID 202505311230.

Desired Functionality:
  - Automatic Generation: When creating a new note, Marknotes should offer an option (perhaps a checkbox or a setting) to automatically generate an ID.
  - YYYYMMDDHHMM Format: The generated ID should strictly adhere to the YYYYMMDDHHMM format.
  - Uniqueness: The system must ensure that generated IDs are unique (perhaps by checking against existing note IDs).
  - Integration with Linking: These automatically generated IDs should be seamlessly integrated with the internal linking functionality (i.e., allow users to link to notes using these IDs).
  - Optional Prefix/Suffix: Consider allowing users to add a prefix or suffix to the generated ID (e.g., 202505311230_title or project_202505311230).
  - Customization (Lower Priority): Allow users to customize the ID format (e.g., include seconds, milliseconds, or use a different separator).

Benefits:
  - Zettelkasten Compatibility: This feature is essential for a true Zettelkasten workflow, making it easier to create stable and meaningful links between notes.
  - Improved Organization: Automatic IDs provide a consistent and chronological way to organize notes.
  - Increased Efficiency: Saves users time and effort by automating the ID creation process.
  - Reduced Errors: Eliminates the risk of manually creating duplicate or invalid IDs.
  - Enhanced Interoperability: Using a standard ID format (YYYYMMDDHHMM) makes it easier to exchange notes with other Zettelkasten-compatible tools.

This feature is crucial for users who want to use Marknotes for serious personal knowledge management and research.