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Home › Answers › Getting started with AI

How does NotebookLM work, and how do you use it?

Last checked: 17 October 2026 · The AI Till, UK

Short answer

NotebookLM, which Google now calls Gemini Notebook, is a free research tool that answers questions using only the sources you add, such as PDFs, websites, Google Docs and videos. Create a notebook, add your files, then ask questions or make summaries, audio overviews, mind maps, flashcards, slides or reports. It cites the passages it uses.

How to start

  1. Go to notebooklm.google.com and sign in with a Google account.
  2. Create a notebook and add sources: files, links, Google Docs or YouTube videos.
  3. Ask questions in the chat. Click the citations to check the source.
  4. Use the studio tools to create an Audio Overview, Video Overview, mind map, quiz, slide deck or report.

Useful jobs for a small business

  • Turn a long contract or supplier terms into plain-English notes (then check the original).
  • Upload product manuals and ask how to fix a fault.
  • Create a training guide or quiz for new staff from your own documents.
  • Turn a report into a short audio summary to listen to while driving.

Does it hallucinate?

Less than a general chatbot, because it sticks to your sources, but Google says it can still make mistakes. Check citations before acting.

Privacy

Google says your sources aren't used to directly train its foundation models unless you give feedback. Work accounts get extra protections. See does NotebookLM store my data?

Related questions

Is NotebookLM free?

Yes, with usage limits. Paid Google AI plans raise them.

Is there a mobile app?

Yes, Google offers a Gemini Notebook mobile app.

Sources

Checked 17 October 2026. Rules and prices change, so check the source before you rely on it. This is general information, not legal, tax or financial advice.

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