NotebookLM isn't just for students; here are some creative ways anyone can benefit from it

2 days ago 3

When you hear ‘NotebookLM’, your mind might jump straight to students taking notes or researchers carefully organizing their findings. And while it’s fantastic for both, you may miss out on NotebookLM’s vast potential by limiting it to the classroom only. Google’s powerful tool is packed with features that can transform how anyone, from hobbyists and travellers to budget planners and even housewives, captures ideas, retrieves information, and sparks creativity.

If you are ready to move beyond basic note-taking, check out how NotebookLM can transform the way you interact with information and become your most versatile digital assistant, regardless of your passion or profession.

Make informed decisions

You know that sinking feeling when a warning light illuminates on your dashboard, right? And what about the frustration of trying to decode your car’s manual to find something basic, like what oil type to use, only to be left with a thick book? I used to feel that way all the time. But now, thanks to NotebookLM, my personal automotive expert is just a click away.

First, I gather all the digital versions of my car’s manuals – the owner’s manual, the service manual, and any quick-start guides. If I only had physical copies, I would scan them into PDFs and upload all of them to a new notebook titled ‘Taigun’.

Once they are in there, that’s where the magic truly begins. Now, instead of flipping through hundreds of pages, I just open my car’s notebook in NotebookLM and ask questions naturally.

What’s the recommended tire pressure for my front tires?
What type of engine old should I use for better mileage?
When should I replace the timing belt?
When should I replace the gearbox oil of my CVT transmission?

NotebookLM pulls the answer directly from the manuals. But it gets even better. Every time I get an oil change, rotate my tires, or have any service done, I manually create a new text entry with details like Date, Mileage, Service Performed, Notes, Cost, and Any Issues Notes bullet points.

This running log has become a valuable part of my car’s history. When a new issue pops up, I can easily search my log. For example, if I hear a strange rattling issue, I can ask, ‘What was the mileage when I last mentioned a suspension issue?’

Knowledge hub for your home appliances

Understand your expensive devices

Our homes are filled with an amazing array of appliances, each designed to make our lives easier. But with that convenience comes a small mountain of manuals, warranty cards, and troubleshooting guides. You can transform a chaotic collection of appliance documents into an easily accessible, searchable database using NotebookLM.

You can create a dedicated NotebookLM notebook called ‘Kitchen King’ and start gathering all the manuals. For newer appliances, you should usually find these PDF versions of the manuals directly on the manufacturer’s website. Once everything is added, you can add questions like below.

My dishwasher isn’t draining. What are the common troubleshooting steps?
What type of descaling solution is recommended for my coffee maker?
How do I set the time on the Samsung microwave?

Keep track of every penny

Here is where you will understand why NotebookLM is the future of note-taking. It’s easy to feel overwhelmed by personal finance. We have bank statements, credit card bills, investment reports, loan documents, and budgeting spreadsheets in various locations.

You can set up a ‘Financial Command Center’ and upload all the relevant files, such as loan documents, budgeting PDFs, receipts for large purchases, credit card statements, and more.

What is the current value of my mutual fund portfolio?
What are the fees associated with my brokerage firm?
What is the minimum payment due on my HDFC Regalia Business credit card next month?
What are the terms and conditions for early repayment on my car loan?

In short, NotebookLM takes the stress out of managing money by giving you relevant answers instantly.

Vacation planning

Enjoy smooth travel

When you plan an epic international adventure, it can quickly turn into a mess with itineraries, booking confirmations, recommendations, and receipts. You can create a notebook called ‘Summer Trip 2025’ and upload all the relevant documents like hotel reservations, car rental booking, visa information, packing list, and more, and get answers on the go using mobile apps.

What time is our flight to Rome tomorrow?
What’s the cancellation policy for our car rental?
What’s the opening time for the Uffizi Gallery, according to the ticket I uploaded?

You can even generate a mind map for your entire travel itinerary and have a quick overview of everything.

Beyond the books and classroom

I have explored just a few of the countless ways NotebookLM can integrate into your daily life. It transforms complex tasks into an organized and efficient process in no time. Whether you are plotting a novel, strategizing your personal finances and small business, or planning your next trips, create a notebook, upload sources, and take control of your knowledge.

If you are new to Google’s AI note-taking tool, check out these useful tips to supercharge your productivity.