Export YouTube Notes to Obsidian
Build a Video Knowledge Graph with YouTube Summaries in Obsidian
Export YouTube video summaries to Obsidian as clean markdown files. NoteLM generates AI summaries with timestamps, then you paste into Obsidian and add [[backlinks]] to build a connected knowledge graph. Both tools are 100% free — no subscriptions required.
Key Takeaways
- YouTube to Obsidian Export
Copy AI-generated video summaries as pure markdown compatible with Obsidian.
- Backlink-Ready Format
Easy to add [[double bracket]] links connecting video concepts across your vault.
- Build Knowledge Graph
Visualize connections between videos using Obsidian's graph view.
- Export YouTube summaries to Obsidian as pure markdown
- Build knowledge graph with [[backlinks]]
- Local-first — all notes stay on your device
Technical Specifications
| Export Format | Pure Markdown (.md) |
| Obsidian Features | Backlinks, graph view, YAML frontmatter |
| Local Storage | Yes — notes stay on your device |
| Cost | Free (both tools) |
How to Get Started
Set up Export YouTube Notes to Obsidian in minutes
Generate Summary
Use NoteLM to create an AI summary from any YouTube video with timestamps.
Copy Markdown
Click copy — the output is pure markdown compatible with Obsidian.
Create Obsidian Note
Paste into a new note in your "YouTube" folder. Add YAML frontmatter if desired.
Add Backlinks
Connect to related notes with [[double brackets]] and watch your knowledge graph grow.
Use Cases
How people use Export YouTube Notes to Obsidian
Why Use This Integration
Knowledge Graph
Visualize how video concepts connect across your entire vault.
Local-First Storage
All notes stay on your device — no cloud required, 100% privacy.
No Vendor Lock-in
Pure markdown files work forever. Export to any tool anytime.
Completely Free
Both NoteLM and Obsidian are free. No subscriptions needed.
Limitations to Know
- ⚠Manual copy-paste workflow (no direct plugin yet)
- ⚠YAML frontmatter must be added manually after paste
- ⚠Requires NoteLM Chrome extension for summarization
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the best Obsidian workflow?
Create a "YouTube" folder, use consistent naming (Video Title - Channel), add tags in YAML frontmatter, and use [[backlinks]] to connect related concepts.
Can I add backlinks after pasting?
Yes! After pasting the summary, add [[double bracket]] links to connect to related notes. These will show in Obsidian's graph view.
Does it work with Obsidian Publish?
Yes. Exported notes are standard markdown and can be published like any other Obsidian content.
Is there an Obsidian plugin?
Not yet. Currently copy-paste workflow. A dedicated Obsidian plugin is on our 2026 roadmap.
Ready to Try Export YouTube Notes to Obsidian?
Get started with NoteLM and Export YouTube Notes to Obsidian today — it's free.