Foam
Free
Foam is a personal knowledge management and sharing system inspired by Roam Research, running on Visual Studio Code.

Our take
Perfect for those who love Visual Studio Code.
Alright, so this "Foam" thing is pretty interesting. It’s like walking into a new coffee shop and not knowing what you’re gonna get, but pleasantly surprised by the vibe. The main thing with Foam is that it’s supposed to help you organize your thoughts and notes in a really visual way. Think of it like having a giant whiteboard in your brain, except you don’t need a ladder to reach the top. It takes a bit to get used to, especially if you’re someone who’s been stuck using traditional note apps. But once you get the hang of it, it’s pretty neat how it all clicks together.
Here's where it gets a bit quirky, though. Foam isn’t exactly a standalone app; it’s more like an add-on that works with VSCode. If you’re already using VSCode, this might be a breeze for you. But if not, get ready for a bit of a learning curve. It’s kind of like having to learn a new dance move just to enjoy the music. The good part is that it’s open-source and free, so at least you’re not losing anything but time if it’s not your jam.
Now, let’s talk about the visuals. Foam’s structure is based on linking notes together, kind of like a mind map. It’s powerful if you’re someone who thinks in webs and connections. But if you’re more of a linear thinker, this might feel like trying to read a book by jumping between random chapters. The links and connections are cool, but there’s a bit of a challenge in making them work for you without getting tangled up.
On the flip side, Foam is as flexible as a yoga instructor. You can tweak it to fit your style thanks to its integration with VSCode and markdown. If you like customizing, you’re in for a treat. But remember, with great flexibility comes great responsibility—or maybe just more room for error. If you’re not careful, you might end up spending more time customizing than actually taking notes. It’s all about finding the right balance.
In the end, Foam is kind of like that quirky friend who’s a bit high-maintenance but super rewarding once you invest the time. It’s got a lot of potential, especially if you’re into visuals and connections. Just be ready to put in some effort upfront. If you’re up for the challenge, it could really change how you organize your thoughts. But if you’re looking for something simple and straightforward, you might want to keep looking. Foam’s definitely not for everyone, but for the right person, it could be a gem.
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