# Automation rules for NotebookLM

Source: https://nlmexporter.com/guides/features/automation-rules  
Section: Features  
Last verified: November 2026  
Plan: Free + Pro

An automation rule runs an action in NotebookLM when something happens: a notebook gets a tag, joins a collection, has a title containing a keyword, or finishes an Audio Overview. Actions include filing the notebook, applying a template, generating Studio items and adding audio to a podcast. Free includes 1 rule.

## Quick facts

| Item | Detail |
| --- | --- |
| Where | Automation page in the workspace |
| Plan | Free + Pro |
| Free | 1 rule. |
| Pro | Unlimited rules, plus hourly, daily or weekly schedules. |

## Steps

1. Install [NotebookLM Ultra Exporter](https://chromewebstore.google.com/detail/notebooklm-ultra-exporter/afchokljnhhggkhedfbmkcmdagjmjchj) in desktop Chrome, then refresh any open NotebookLM (Gemini Notebook) tab.
2. Find it here: Automation page in the workspace.
3. Use it on one item first and check the result before running it on many.

## What it does

- Files notebooks into collections by tag or title keyword.
- Builds tag chains: one entry tag adds follow-up tags.
- Triggers briefings, flashcards, quizzes or audio when a rule matches.

## Limits to know

- Rules respond to new changes; they do not process existing notebooks when first loaded.
- Rules run while Chrome is open.
- Generated items use your NotebookLM generation quota.

## Frequently asked questions

### Do I need Pro for automation rules?

Not for the basics. Free: 1 rule. Pro: Unlimited rules, plus hourly, daily or weekly schedules.

### What is a good first rule?

Add a tag, then file the notebook into a collection or generate a brief. It shows the trigger-and-action pattern without spending much quota.

## Related guides

- [Workflows: save a multi-step research process](https://nlmexporter.com/guides/features/workflows)
- [Collections, tags and pins for notebooks](https://nlmexporter.com/guides/features/collections-and-tags)
- [Studio batch generation and packs](https://nlmexporter.com/guides/features/studio-batch-generation)
- [Private podcasts from NotebookLM Audio Overviews](https://nlmexporter.com/guides/features/private-podcasts)
- [Use several Google accounts with one extension](https://nlmexporter.com/guides/features/multiple-accounts)
- [Feature toggles: show only the tools you use](https://nlmexporter.com/guides/features/feature-toggles)