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Vault Cleanup Workflow: Normalize Tags and Headings (Agent Mode)

A safe Obsidian AI workflow to standardize tags, rename headings, and clean up formatting across a folder using SystemSculpt Agent Mode approvals and reviewable diffs.

Advanced25 min
Vault maintenanceTag cleanupFormattingAgent ModeObsidian

Steps

  1. 1

    Pick a small scope

    Start with a single folder or 10 to 30 notes so you can validate the rules before scaling up.

  2. 2

    Define normalization rules

    Write explicit rules for tag naming, heading structure, and formatting so outputs are deterministic.

  3. 3

    Run a dry proposal

    Ask SystemSculpt to propose changes without writing, and review the plan for edge cases.

  4. 4

    Approve changes in batches

    Apply edits using Agent Mode approvals, approving only the diffs that match your rules.

  5. 5

    Spot check and iterate

    Open a handful of edited notes and refine the rules before expanding to more content.

Safety first

Bulk edits are where AI can hurt you if you do not use approvals. Keep Agent Mode approvals enabled and work in small batches.

Define your rules (examples)

Be explicit. Here are common rules that work well:

  • Tags use kebab-case: #project-management not #ProjectManagement
  • A note has at most 5 tags
  • Replace ## Todo with ## Tasks
  • Convert loose checkboxes into a ## Tasks list

Dry run prompt

Start with a plan-only prompt:

  • "Propose how you would normalize tags and headings for notes in this folder. Do not write files yet. List the exact rules you will apply and call out edge cases."

Once the plan looks right:

  • "Now propose file edits for the first 10 notes. Keep approvals on. Do not change meaning, only structure and tags."

Approve diffs, not intentions

When SystemSculpt proposes changes:

  • Read the diff
  • Reject anything that changes meaning
  • Prefer smaller edits over one giant refactor

Monetization path

If you want safe automation inside your vault, Pro is built for approvals and workflows: SystemSculpt Pro pricing.

If you want a repeatable starting point, use the Obsidian Vault Cleanup Checklist.

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