How to import OPML outlines into Obsidian
Convert each outline root into a Markdown note, with its children as nested lists.
How to import TheBrain into Obsidian
Create one Markdown note per thought and use note links to represent its supported relations. As of October 2026, Obsidian links to community TheBrain migration guidance rather than a dedicated built-in route. TheBrain Import reads local thought and link records into a new vault folder.
Background
A thought name alone can't distinguish duplicate names in an export. The importer resolves relations by source ID and writes links using the final filenames.
2 ways to do it
Rebuild a small map with note links
Create notes for selected thoughts and connect them with wikilinks. Obsidian supports internal note links, so you can choose your own relation headings.
- limits
- You must transfer the source IDs and relation meanings yourself. This workflow doesn't read a TheBrain archive.
- source
- Obsidian Markdown syntax
TheBrain Import from this site
Choose the
.brzarchive or the two supported JSON files. Review broken endpoints and name suffixes before writing linked notes.- limits
- Current exports with bodies and attachments have not been tested. Pro Canvas output uses a new grid rather than the source layout.
Open larger MIT · no telemetry · core features free
Check the result before relying on it
Keep a copy of your TheBrain export.
Run Import thoughts and links from the command palette.
Select a
.brzarchive, or select the two JSON files together.Check names and counts, then choose whether tag thoughts should get notes.
Select Import to new folder and read the completed report.
Common questions
Why check broken endpoints before importing?
A broken endpoint names a thought that the export lacks. The importer skips its link, so inspect the export if that relation matters.
How can I compare a second migration attempt?
Keep the first folder and run another import. Each attempt writes a separate folder, letting you inspect both sets of notes.
Sources
- Obsidian Markdown syntaxhelp.obsidian.md
- Obsidian import routeshelp.obsidian.md
You can now import TheBrain into Obsidian.
You're officially a regular.
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The plugin in this guide
TheBrain Import
Preview a local TheBrain export and import notes with links.