Overview:
SiYuan is a privacy-first personal knowledge management system that provides a block-style editor with Markdown WYSIWYG functionality. It is designed for users creating and organizing interconnected notes, documents, and databases, with a focus on local-first data storage and fine-grained content references. The system supports individual use on desktop and mobile devices, with optional paid cloud features available through a membership model. SiYuan targets knowledge workers and researchers who want granular control over their notes and the ability to build a personal knowledge graph through block-level references and links.
Core Features:
Block-level reference and two-way links: Users can reference individual content blocks across documents and create bidirectional connections between them.
Markdown WYSIWYG editor: The editor displays Markdown formatting in real-time while supporting block-style content organization, list outlines, block zoom-in, and million-word document editing.
Database table view: The system includes a built-in database feature that allows creating and viewing data in a tabular format within notes.
Export options: Content can be exported to standard Markdown with assets, PDF, Word, and HTML, with support for block refs, embeds, and formatted output for WeChat MP, Zhihu, and Yuque.
AI writing and Q/A via OpenAI API: Users can integrate an OpenAI API key to enable AI-assisted writing and question-answering chat within the editor.
Docker deployment: The server version can be deployed via Docker, allowing browser-based access while supporting custom user permissions and authentication via environment variables.
Use Cases:
Knowledge workers building a personal knowledge graph: Users can create fine-grained references between blocks and notes, enabling a structured, interconnected personal knowledge base.
Researchers organizing documents with tables and databases: The database table view allows categorizing and structuring information within a note-taking environment without switching to a separate application.
Self-hosters deploying a knowledge management system: Docker deployment enables running SiYuan on a server, providing browser-based access to notes while keeping data on infrastructure under user control.
Editors preparing content for multiple platforms: The export feature supports producing formatted output for social platforms like WeChat MP, Zhihu, and Yuque, in addition to standard formats.
Why It Matters:
SiYuan is a fully open-source knowledge management system that emphasizes privacy-first, local data storage and fine-grained block-level content organization. Its architecture supports self-hosting via Docker, a plugin ecosystem, and an API for extending functionality, making it suitable for users who want control over their note-taking infrastructure. The system avoids third-party sync disks to prevent data corruption, instead offering optional cloud features for members. For those evaluating open-source alternatives in the personal knowledge management space, SiYuan provides a transparent, modular system with community marketplace support and cross-platform apps.
