AI automation
Chat with your documents (knowledge base)
In short
Your PDFs, notes and files become a searchable AI assistant: with the free NotebookLM you upload documents and ask questions in plain language – answers come with source references. It becomes more permanent and customisable with a Custom GPT (ChatGPT Plus) or a Claude project with its own knowledge base.
Free
- Upload documents and PDFs to NotebookLM.
- Ask questions in natural language.
- Use answers with source references.
Summarise the key points of all uploaded documents on [TOPIC] and cite the source for each.
Limits: Source quantity is limited, no own branding.
Premium / Automated
- Create a Custom GPT or project and upload files as a knowledge base.
- Define behaviour by instruction (e.g. “answer only based on the files”).
- Use it as a personal assistant permanently.
Summarise the key points of all uploaded documents on [TOPIC] and cite the source for each.
Added value: Permanent, customisable assistant with a larger knowledge scope.
Frequently asked questions
How safe are my documents in this setup?
With NotebookLM and ChatGPT, the files are stored with the respective provider – only upload what you're comfortable keeping there, and check internal policies for company data. For strictly confidential material, a local LLM is the private alternative.
Does the AI invent answers that aren't in the documents?
NotebookLM deliberately answers only from your sources and links the passage – that makes checking easy. With Custom GPTs, the instruction "answer only based on the uploaded files" helps prevent free-wheeling invention.
How many documents can I upload?
NotebookLM limits the number of sources per notebook – easily enough for one project or study subject. Custom GPTs and Claude projects allow a larger, permanently maintained knowledge base; exact limits vary by plan.