obsidian-bases

Generate and validate Obsidian Base .base YAML definitions with filters, formulas, and views.

Updated Jul 11, 2022
One-click install
npx skills add https://github.com/zhengfran/dotconfig --skill obsidian-bases-zhengfran
Or copy as Structured Prompt for Agent
Please help me install this Agent Skill.
Skill: obsidian-bases
Source: https://github.com/zhengfran/dotconfig/tree/main/tools/ai/agents/skills/obsidian-bases
Command: npx skills add https://github.com/zhengfran/dotconfig --skill obsidian-bases-zhengfran

SYSTEM DOCUMENTATION & REQUIREMENTS

💡 This Skill includes references (resource) components.

What problem does it solve?

This skill helps you author correct, reusable Obsidian Base (.base) files so your vault notes can be presented as table, card, list, or map views with powerful filtering and computed formulas.

Core Features & Use Cases

  • Base file authoring: Generate valid YAML for .base files that define global filters, formulas, properties, summaries, and one or more views.
  • Filtering & scoping: Use global filters and per-view filters (AND/OR/NOT) to select notes by tags, folders, properties, links, and dates.
  • Computed formulas & summaries: Define formula fields and summary aggregations (e.g., averages, min/max, earliest/latest) and reference them safely in properties, order, and summaries.
  • Validation guidance: Identify common YAML and formula pitfalls such as quoting requirements, duration math, missing null-guards, and referencing undefined formulas.

Quick Start

Create a .base YAML file for your Obsidian vault that defines filters, optional formulas, and one or more views (table/cards/list/map) with an explicit order of displayed properties and summaries.

Frequently Asked Questions about obsidian-bases

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

FAQPage Schema
How do I create an Obsidian database view from my vault notes?

Obsidian Base (.base) files turn vault notes into filtered, viewable datasets by using YAML frontmatter to define global filters, formulas, properties, summaries, and views. You create a .base file to present notes as table, card, list, or map outputs for reading lists or task trackers.

What's the best way to filter notes by tags and folders in Obsidian Bases?

The best way to filter notes in Obsidian Bases is by applying global filters and per-view filters using AND/OR/NOT logic. This lets you scope and select notes based on tags, folders, properties, links, and dates directly within the YAML definition.

Can I use computed formulas and aggregations in an Obsidian Base file?

Yes, you can define computed formula fields and summary aggregations like averages, min, max, earliest, and latest in an Obsidian Base file. You can then safely reference these formulas in properties, ordering, and summaries for your datasets.

Do I need YAML frontmatter to build Obsidian Bases with views and formulas?

Yes, you need YAML frontmatter structures to build Obsidian Bases. The .base file relies on correct YAML syntax to define filters, formulas, properties, summaries, and views, including proper quoting rules for data modeling.

Why does my Obsidian Base formula break when calculating durations?

Obsidian Base formulas break when missing null-guards or using incorrect duration arithmetic field access. You must validate formula safety by applying proper null checks and ensuring correct quoting rules to avoid referencing undefined formulas.