A source is a static copy of a Google doc you have access to, a PDF file, or text that is copied and pasted directly into the app. When using NotebookLM, the model will use the sources you upload to answer your questions or complete your requests.
NotebookLM can’t delete or edit your original files. When you upload a Google Doc or a local PDF file from your computer, the app makes a copy of the original file. NotebookLM doesn’t keep track of changes to the doc, including access to it, so you have to manually re-upload the file to refresh the content.
Source Guide
When you upload a new source to NotebookLM, the app instantly creates a source guide that summarizes the document and offers key topics and questions to ask. Think of it as a research assistant that helps you better understand the source material.
Limitations
- Right now, NotebookLM supports the following source types: Google Docs, PDF files, and copy-pasted text
- Each source can contain up to 200,000 words. We’ll review these limits periodically to help determine the best user experience.
- Avoid uploading documents with any personal or sensitive information (e.g. names, addresses, phone numbers) in them
- Avoid uploading documents you don’t have the applicable rights to