Direction is half the kata
Embusen, the floor pattern, is easy to lose in paragraph notes. SKN keeps facing and movement visible in the structure itself.
形 · Kata · Memory Aid
SKN
Spatial Kata Notation
Write kata so you can see direction, stance, and technique in one glance, then return to the floor and train with respect.
First principle
The sensei teaches.
SKN only reminds.
Karate is transmitted person to person: in the dojo, under a teacher, through correction and repetition. This notation is a notebook for the embusen and the order of moves. It does not grade your form, settle style debates, or stand in for instruction.
Use it after class to remember. Use it before practice to review. Always defer to your sensei when notation and teaching differ.
The need
Kata is spatial. Notes should be too.
Readable without software
Plain text. Copy into a notebook, email, or chat. No app lock-in. Students can read it on a phone between sets.
Same spine for bunkai
Applications attach to the same move tree. The kata line stays clear; the bunkai reading sits beside it, never above the teacher’s version.
At a glance
One move, one branch.
+-- [STEP → N] -------------- (Face: N) | ├─ Stance : [R] Z-D | ├─ Action : Right Age-uke (J) | └─ Key : Rise under attack angle