# Workflows: save a multi-step research process

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

A workflow chains NotebookLM steps in order: ask a question and save the answer, create a note, apply a template, generate Studio items and generate audio. You set it up once, choose a notebook, fill in the inputs and run it again. Free includes 1 custom workflow and 3 successful runs.

## Quick facts

| Item | Detail |
| --- | --- |
| Where | Workflows page in the workspace |
| Plan | Free + Pro |
| Free | 1 custom workflow and 3 successful runs. |
| Pro | Unlimited workflows and runs, and scheduled runs across selected notebooks. |

## 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: Workflows page in the workspace.
3. Use it on one item first and check the result before running it on many.

## What it does

- Runs steps one at a time and records the result of each.
- Waits for generation and continues in the background.
- Can be turned into a recurring scheduled automation.

## Limits to know

- A chat step times out after 120 seconds.
- If NotebookLM returns no answer, nothing is saved for that step.
- After an interrupted run, inspect the notebook before retrying.

## Frequently asked questions

### Do I need Pro for workflows?

Not for the basics. Free: 1 custom workflow and 3 successful runs. Pro: Unlimited workflows and runs, and scheduled runs across selected notebooks.

### How is a workflow different from an automation rule?

A rule reacts to an event with an action. A workflow is a sequence you start yourself or on a schedule.

## Related guides

- [Automation rules for NotebookLM](https://nlmexporter.com/guides/features/automation-rules)
- [Note templates: reusable note outlines](https://nlmexporter.com/guides/features/note-templates)
- [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)