NoteMods

How to import a RedNotebook journal into Obsidian

As of October 2026, you can keep journal text in Markdown paragraphs and dated note files. RedNotebook Backup Import converts supported monthly YAML from a local ZIP.

Updated · 3 ways compared · 2 sources

Background

Keep the original backup until you have checked the imported notes. This importer’s tests used synthetic journals rather than backups made by RedNotebook.

3 ways to do it

  1. Transfer selected days by hand

    For a small set of days, copy the journal text into notes. Use Markdown headings and paragraphs to organize the entries.

    limits
    You handle dates, categories and source markup yourself.

  2. Export from RedNotebook

    RedNotebook’s Journal menu exports plain text, HTML or LaTeX. Use plain text if you want to transfer journal prose without reading monthly YAML.

    limits
    The documentation does not describe a Markdown export; you still organize the exported text into your destination notes.

  3. RedNotebook Backup Import from this site

    Select a local RedNotebook backup ZIP and check its dates, conflicts and markup reports. Create a note for each day with text or categories.

    limits
    Images are not copied; their paths remain as text with a report.
    An imported dated note shows converted text and a category list.
    Open larger
    Install in Obsidian
    Directory pageSource on GitHub

    MIT · no telemetry · core features free

    All features of RedNotebook Backup Import

Convert a local RedNotebook backup into dated Markdown notes

  1. Make a RedNotebook backup ZIP and keep a copy.

  2. Run Import a RedNotebook backup.

  3. Select the ZIP and check the folder, counts and markup reports.

  4. After changing the folder, select Preview again.

  5. Select Create notes and read the result counts.

Common questions

Can I keep the original month files?

The import can copy month YAML into RedNotebook source inside your import folder. A setting lets you turn those copies off.

Why does a list still have txt2tags markers?

This version converts basic headings, bold, italic and links. Other forms remain with reports for your review.

Sources

Photo of Michael LipYou can now import a RedNotebook journal.

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Related guides

The plugin in this guide