# Bring in your existing notes

> Open a folder of markdown you already have, or import files.

Source: https://notate.md/docs/getting-started/import-notes/

Category: Getting started

Updated: 2026-07-27

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Because Notate works with plain markdown files, moving your existing notes in is quick, and nothing gets converted or locked away.

## Open a folder you already have

On desktop, point Notate at a folder of `.md` files and it opens them in place, keeping your existing structure. Notate watches that folder, so files you add or edit outside the app show up too.

## Import individual files

You can also drag files onto the app or use **Import** to bring in `.md`, `.markdown`, and `.txt` files. Folder structure is preserved, and everything lands as standard markdown you still own.

## Nothing changes about your files

Imported notes stay plain markdown on disk. You can keep editing them in any other tool, and Notate will pick up the changes.