Import Options in Zoho Notebook

Import Options in Zoho Notebook

Overview

Zoho Notebook offers multiple import options to help users bring existing files, documents, notes, and backups into Notebook. Whether you're restoring a previous backup, importing Markdown files, or adding documents and media files, Notebook provides flexible ways to consolidate your content in one place.

Importing content allows you to continue working with existing information without recreating it manually, making it easier to organize everything within Zoho Notebook.

Available Import Options

Import Notebook Files

If you previously exported your Notebook data as a backup, you can re-import it at any time. 

This is useful for:

  • Restoring notes after accidental deletion
  • Moving data between accounts
  • Maintaining and restoring personal backups
  • Recovering archived notebooks

Steps to Import a Notebook Backup

  1. Open the Zoho Notebook app.
  2. Go to Settings.
  3. Select Import from Notebook or Import ZNote.
  4. Choose the exported ZNote file.
  5. Click Import.
  6. Wait for the import process to complete.

Once completed, your notes and notebooks will be available in Notebook.

Note: Only ZNote files exported from Zoho Notebook can be re-imported using this method. 


Import Markdown Files

Zoho Notebook supports importing Markdown (.md) files, making it easier for users to bring notes created in Markdown-based editors and knowledge management tools into Notebook.

When a Markdown file is imported:

  • Text formatting such as headings, lists, bold, italics, and links is preserved where supported.
  • Each imported Markdown file is converted into a Text Card.
  • The content remains fully editable after import.
  • Multiple Markdown files can be imported and organized into notebooks, collections, and tags.

This option is particularly useful for users migrating from Markdown-based note-taking applications or maintaining notes stored as Markdown documents.

Import Individual Files

You can import individual files directly into any notebook as File Cards. Imported files are stored alongside your notes and remain accessible at any time.

Supported file types include:

  • PDF documents
  • Microsoft Office files (.docx, .xlsx, .pptx)
  • Images (.jpg, .png, .gif, and others)
  • Audio files
  • Video files

Import Images and Documents

Images and documents can be added directly into Notebook and organised within any notebook. This is useful for keeping visual and reference content together with your written notes.

Common examples include:

  • Scanned receipts and invoices
  • Reference documents and manuals
  • Study materials and research papers
  • Project resources and assets
  • Personal records and documents

Drag and Drop Import

On the web app and desktop applications, you can drag and drop supported files directly into a notebook to create new notecards instantly. This is the quickest way to add content without going through upload menus.

Note: Drag and drop works on the Zoho Notebook web app and desktop applications. This feature may not be available on mobile.

How to Import files

  1. Open Zoho Notebook.
  2. Open the notebook where you want to add content.
  3. Click the Add Card (+) option to open a new Filecard/ Video card / Audio card.
  4. Select the file you want to import.
  5. Wait for the import process to complete.

Once finished, the imported content will appear as notecards and can be edited, organized, tagged, shared, or moved like any other note.


Supported Migration Methods

Import Type

Method

Supported Format

Zoho Notebook Backup

Backup File Import

.znote

Markdown Files

Markdown Import

.md

Individual Files

File Import

.pdf, .docx, .xlsx, .pptx, images, audio, video

Images and Documents

Direct Upload / Drag and Drop

.jpg, .png, .gif, .pdf, and others

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I re-import a Notebook backup that I exported earlier?

Yes. Previously exported Notebook backup files can be imported again whenever needed as ZNote format.

2. Will imported notes remain editable?

Yes. Imported notes can be edited, organized, tagged, shared, and managed like any other Notebook note.

3. Do imported files count toward my storage limit?

Yes. Imported attachments, documents, images, and other files contribute toward your account's available storage quota.

4. Can I import Markdown (.md) files into Zoho Notebook?

Yes. Zoho Notebook supports importing Markdown files. Imported Markdown content is converted into editable Text Cards while preserving supported formatting elements such as headings, lists, and links.

5. What happens if my import is incomplete or stops midway?

If an import appears incomplete, wait a few minutes for background sync to finish. Avoid re-triggering the same import as this can create duplicate notes. If the issue continues, reach out to our support team for assistance.

Need Further Assistance?

If you experience any issues while importing content into Zoho Notebook, please contact our support team, we will be happy to assist you.