How to Import, Merge, and Export CSV Files in Notion (2025 Tutorial)

CSV (Comma-Separated Values) files are one of the most common formats for sharing data between different applications. Whether you're managing financial transactions, customer data, or project information, knowing how to effectively work with CSV files in Notion can significantly streamline your workflow. Notion's robust CSV functionality allows you to import new data, merge information with existing databases, and export your organized data back to CSV format.

In this comprehensive guide, we'll walk through three essential CSV operations in Notion that will help you manage your data more efficiently and make the most of your workspace.

How to Import CSV Files into Notion

Importing CSV files into Notion is straightforward and gives you multiple options to get your data into your workspace. This process is perfect when you're starting fresh with a new dataset or want to create a completely new database from external data.

Getting Your CSV File Ready

Before importing, you'll need to prepare your CSV file. You can create this from any spreadsheet application like Google Sheets, Excel, or Numbers. Simply go to File > Download > CSV to export your spreadsheet data in the proper format. Notion recommends to make sure that CSV files are in UTF-8 format.

Multiple Ways to Import

Notion offers several convenient methods to import your CSV files:

• From any page: Type /csv and select the import option
• From the three-dot menu: Click the three dots on any page, select "Import," then choose "CSV"
• From settings: Navigate to Settings > Import > CSV

Mapping Your Data

Once you upload your CSV file, Notion's import wizard will show you a preview of your data and allow you to map each column to the appropriate property type. You can set columns as titles, dates, numbers, multi-select options, or any other Notion property type. This mapping ensures your data appears exactly how you want it in your new database.

How to Merge CSV Data into Existing Notion Databases

Merging CSV files with existing databases is incredibly useful when you want to add new records to a database you've already set up. This feature saves time and maintains consistency in your data structure.

Accessing the Merge Function

To merge CSV data with an existing database:

1. Navigate to your target database
2. Click the three-dot menu in the top right
3. Select "Merge with CSV"
4. Upload your CSV file

Best Practices for Merging

For the smoothest merging experience, ensure your CSV columns match the property names in your existing database. If you have extra columns in your CSV that you don't need, consider removing them beforehand to avoid cluttering your database with unnecessary properties.

During the merge process, Notion will automatically detect matching properties and suggest mappings. You can adjust these mappings as needed, and Notion will create new properties for any columns that don't match existing ones.

How to Export CSV Files from Notion Databases

Exporting your Notion databases to CSV format is essential when you need to share data with others, create backups, or use your data in other applications that don't integrate directly with Notion.

The Export Process

Exporting is simple and flexible:

1. Open your database
2. Click the three-dot menu
3. Select "Export"
4. Choose CSV format
5. Select your preferred view (current view or default view)
6. Include or exclude content as needed

Understanding Export Options

When exporting, you can choose between different views if you have multiple database views set up. This is particularly useful if you want to export only filtered or sorted data rather than your entire database.

Maximizing Your Notion CSV Workflow

Working with CSV files in Notion opens up powerful possibilities for data management and analysis. You can import financial transactions from your bank, merge customer data from different sources, or export project information for reporting purposes.

The key to success with CSV operations in Notion is preparation and understanding your data structure. Take time to clean and organize your CSV files before importing, use consistent naming conventions, and leverage Notion's property types to make your data more functional and visually appealing.

With these three core CSV operations mastered, you'll be able to seamlessly move data in and out of Notion, making your workspace a central hub for all your important information.