zotero-better-notes

What it does

A plugin for the Zotero reference manager that upgrades its note-taking into something closer to a linked knowledge base: notes can reference each other, outlines are generated automatically, templates standardise how you record a paper, and notes sync both ways with Markdown. There is also optional AI text generation, which needs your own API key. It installs from Zotero's add-ons screen with no command line, but it is useless without Zotero, and major Zotero updates can temporarily break plugins.

Summary based on the project's own description. The Japanese page has a fuller beginner guide: setup difficulty, what to prepare, and a step-by-step start.

Screenshots & visuals

Before you start

• Setup difficultySome setup needed
• Command lineNot required
• API keyRequired
• Sends data onlineYes

Judged automatically from the project's own metadata. Always confirm on the official page.

zotero-better-notes FAQ

Is zotero-better-notes free?

zotero-better-notes itself is free, but it needs an API key for an external AI service. That service charges separately, though some have a free tier.

Do I need to install anything or write code to use zotero-better-notes?

You install it like a normal desktop app. No command line involved.

Does zotero-better-notes work on a phone?

No. It needs a computer.

Can I use zotero-better-notes commercially?

The licence is AGPL-3.0. Using it commercially is fine, but if you distribute something built on it you may be required to release that under the same licence. Keep it internal, or check before distributing.

How it compares

The conditions that decide whether you can actually use it, side by side.

"Sends data out" means your input is uploaded to someone's server. Pick "No" when the material cannot leave your organisation.

Other writing & notes tools