Why does my uploaded document look different in Google NotebookLM?

Here are the common reasons why your uploaded document might look different in NotebookLM:

Table of Contents

Formatting Issues

Reformatting of tables: NotebookLM’s primary focus is on text and its structure, so it may automatically reformat complex tables to simplify their presentation within the app. This can lead to changes in cell widths, alignments, or overall table layout.
Image handling: NotebookLM doesn’t currently have robust image support. It may skip images entirely during the upload process, or display them in a simplified format without preserving their original quality or formatting.
Font and style variations: NotebookLM might use a different set of default fonts or styles compared to your original document, which can affect the visual appearance of text and headings.

File format conversion: When you upload a document, NotebookLM converts it into its own internal format for processing and analysis. This conversion process can sometimes introduce slight alterations in formatting, especially for complex documents with intricate layouts.
Text extraction: NotebookLM primarily extracts and analyzes the textual content of documents. It might not retain all visual elements or formatting aspects that are specific to the original file format, such as elaborate page layouts or embedded objects.

App settings: NotebookLM offers some customization options for font size, line spacing, and page margins. Check if any of these settings might be affecting the way your document is displayed.
Browser compatibility: In rare cases, inconsistencies in how different browsers render text or elements could also contribute to variations in appearance.

Document complexity: Highly complex documents with multiple sections, columns, or nested formatting might be more prone to formatting changes during the upload process.
File type: NotebookLM might handle different file types (e.g., .docx, .pdf, .txt) with varying degrees of accuracy in terms of preserving formatting.

Choose simpler formats: If possible, opt for simpler document structures and formatting to reduce the likelihood of significant changes.
Review and adjust: After uploading, carefully review the document in NotebookLM and make any necessary adjustments to formatting or layout as needed.
Provide feedback: If you encounter persistent formatting issues, consider providing feedback to the NotebookLM team so they can continue to improve the app’s handling of different document types and formatting.