How to use Notion - Beginner Tutorial

Introduction

This tutorial is designed for beginners looking to get started with Notion, a versatile project management and note-taking platform. By the end of this guide, you'll be equipped with the knowledge to create pages, use blocks, manage databases, and collaborate effectively within Notion.

Step 1: Get Notion and Choose a Plan

• Visit the Notion website to sign up for an account.
• Explore the available plans, including free and paid options, to choose one that suits your needs.
• Download the desktop app if preferred for easier access.

Step 2: Sign Up and Explore the Main Interface

• Follow the sign-up flow to create your account.
• Familiarize yourself with the main interface, noting key areas such as the sidebar, workspace, and settings.

Step 3: Create a New Page

• Click on the "Add a new page" button in the sidebar.
• Enter a title for your page and explore various templates to start with.

Step 4: Use Basic Blocks

• Understand the concept of blocks, which are the building units in Notion.
• To add a block, type "/" to open the block menu and select the type of block you want (text, heading, list, etc.).

Step 5: Insert an Image Block

• To add images, type "/" and select "Image."
• Upload an image from your device or use a link.

Step 6: Use Shortcuts to Add Blocks

• Familiarize yourself with keyboard shortcuts to speed up your workflow.
• For example, use "/" to open the block menu or "Cmd/Ctrl + Shift + A" to quickly add a block.

Step 7: Change Block Types

• You can convert an existing block into another type by clicking on the block's options (three dots) and selecting “Turn into.”

Step 8: Drag and Drop Blocks

• Rearrange blocks easily by clicking and dragging them to your desired location within the page.

Step 9: Move Blocks

• If you want to move a block to another page, simply drag it to the sidebar and drop it into the desired page.

Step 10: Add Subpages

• Create subpages by selecting the "Add a new page" option within an existing page.
• This helps organize content hierarchically.

Step 11: Manage Page Order and Settings

• Adjust the order of pages in the sidebar by dragging them.
• Access page settings to customize permissions, cover images, and icons.

Step 12: Work with Databases

• Create a new database by typing "/" and selecting "Database."
• Choose between different types (table, board, list, calendar) based on your needs.

Step 13: Perform Database Calculations

• Utilize database properties to calculate values (e.g., sums, averages).
• Set up properties for each entry to better organize data.

Step 14: Filter and Sort Database Entries

• Apply filters to view specific data criteria.
• Sort entries by different properties to prioritize tasks.

Step 15: Search within the Database

• Use the search function to quickly locate specific entries or information within your database.

Step 16: Create Different Database Views

• Set up multiple views for the same database to visualize your data differently (e.g., Kanban, calendar).

Step 17: Import Data into Notion

• Use the import feature to bring existing notes or project data into Notion.
• Supported formats include CSV, Markdown, and more.

Step 18: Use the Search Function

• Utilize the global search feature to find pages, blocks, or data quickly across your workspace.

Step 19: Embed Content

• To enhance your pages, use the embed feature to include content from other platforms (e.g., Google Docs, Figma).

Step 20: Share and Collaborate

• Share your pages with others by clicking the “Share” button.
• Set permissions to control who can view or edit your content.

Step 21: Add Comments

• Use the comment feature to provide feedback or collaborate with others directly on a page.

Step 22: Publish to the Web

• If you want to share your Notion page publicly, use the publish feature to make it accessible online.

Conclusion

By following these steps, you now have a foundational understanding of how to use Notion effectively. Explore more features and customize your workspace as you become more comfortable. Consider diving deeper into specific areas like database management or advanced collaboration techniques to enhance your productivity further. Happy Notioning!