NotchPadA folder is the foundation
A Markdown vault is commonly a folder containing Markdown text files, often with subfolders and attachments. Markdown expresses headings, lists and links in readable text. You can open the files with another suitable editor without exporting an entire database first.
The word “vault” does not by itself mean encryption. Ordinary Markdown files can be read by software with access to their folder. Backups, disk security and sharing permissions still matter.
The files and the app are different layers
The file stores your writing. The app adds navigation, previews, backlinks, search and other features. Standard Markdown travels well, but app-specific links, plugins and embedded queries may not. A folder opening successfully in a second app is only the beginning of a compatibility check.
Obsidian documents its approach in its storage guide. NotchPad works with linked Markdown folders inside projects and also keeps a separate rich-note library. These are different storage models.
Build a small, useful starting structure
For a project, begin with an index note, a brief, a decisions note and a references folder. The index should link to the documents you need most. Split a note when it becomes difficult to use, rather than creating dozens of empty categories in advance.
A useful decision note records what you chose, why, the source and what would make you reconsider. Links then have a purpose: they lead back to evidence rather than simply making a large graph.
Check the parts that can break
- Links: test relative paths, wikilinks and aliases in the apps you use.
- Attachments: keep images and other referenced files with the folder.
- Edits: check how changes made by another editor appear and how conflicts are handled.
- Backups: keep a recoverable copy before reorganizing or trying a new editor.
- Sharing: confirm which files an AI app or sync service can access.
Bring the folder into a working project
In NotchPad, linked Markdown can sit beside rich notes, selected imported AI chats and sourced decisions. This is useful when the project includes more than documents. See project setup and a repeatable project-context workflow.
If you already have an Obsidian setup, read the comparison and cross-app checklist before moving your working files.
Try the workflow with your own sample notes
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