note-ordering

Organize Obsidian vault notes into a linear reading flow using numeric prefixes and frontmatter order.

24|2|Updated Feb 3, 2026
One-click install
npx skills add https://github.com/jwintz/lithos --skill note-ordering
Or copy as Structured Prompt for Agent▼
Please help me install this Agent Skill.
Skill: note-ordering
Source: https://github.com/jwintz/lithos/tree/main/skills/note-ordering
Command: npx skills add https://github.com/jwintz/lithos --skill note-ordering

SYSTEM DOCUMENTATION & REQUIREMENTS

What problem does it solve?

Obsidian vaults often suffer from inconsistent navigation as notes accumulate. The Skill enforces a clear, linear reading flow by combining filename prefixes, frontmatter order, and fractional ordering strategies.

Core Features & Use Cases

  • Filename prefix ordering: automatically sorts folders and files by numeric prefixes for predictable navigation.
  • Frontmatter driven ordering: supports explicit order values to resolve complex hierarchies.
  • Global linear flow: enables a seamless prev/next navigation across sections, projects, and blogs in large vaults.

Quick Start

  • In your vault, enable numeric prefixes and add order frontmatter to your notes to establish a global reading sequence.

Frequently Asked Questions about note-ordering

High-intent search queries and answers about installing and using this skill.

FAQPage Schema
How do I organize an Obsidian vault into a linear reading flow?▼

To establish a linear reading flow in an Obsidian vault, apply numeric filename prefixes and add order values to your frontmatter. This creates a deterministic sequence for prev/next links and navigation cards without requiring index.md files.

Why does Obsidian note navigation become inconsistent across a large vault?▼

Obsidian note navigation becomes inconsistent as notes accumulate because there is no inherent sorting rule. Applying deterministic ordering strategies like numeric prefixes and frontmatter order values resolves this by enforcing a stable sequence.

Can I use frontmatter to order Obsidian notes instead of changing filenames?▼

Yes, you can use frontmatter order values to sort Obsidian notes. This method supports explicit order values to resolve complex hierarchies and works alongside numeric filename prefixes as part of a global linear flow strategy.

What is the best way to control prev/next links and sidebar ordering in Obsidian?▼

The best way to control sidebar and prev/next links is by applying deterministic ordering rules. Combining numeric filename prefixes, frontmatter order, and title-based fallback ensures stable navigation cards follow a consistent sequence.

Do I need an index.md file to establish vault organization in Obsidian?▼

No, you do not need an index.md file to establish vault organization. A deterministic linear note order can be achieved by applying numeric prefixes, frontmatter order values, and title-based fallback resolution rules directly to your notes.

How do fractional ordering strategies work for multi-section Obsidian vaults?▼

Fractional ordering strategies work by allowing precise insertion of new notes between existing ones in multi-section vaults like guides and blogs. Combined with frontmatter order, this maintains a seamless global linear flow without renumbering.