1. Why NotebookLM and Tool Advantages

Tip

Why NotebookLM? Statistics show that NotebookLM is often used more frequently than standard Gemini. There is a paradoxical but logical reason for this:

Uses only your sources: Unlike other models, it doesn't invent facts but relies solely on what you provide.
Free and fast: A convenient interface for quick learning and research.
The better the source, the better the answer: Success with NotebookLM depends 90% on the information you upload to it.

2. Interface and Adding First Sources

When you open NotebookLM and create a new notebook, the first thing you are offered is to add information sources.

You can add data from:

Google Drive
Local files from your computer
Websites and links
Copied text

Functions are available for both quick search and "deep research".

3. The Secret of Quality Sources: Telegram as a Knowledge Base

The most interesting practical example of working with NotebookLM is using a knowledge base from Telegram chats and channels. Much expert information is located exactly in closed channels or thematic chats.

Warning

Important: The regular Telegram from the App Store (Mac) is not suitable for effective data export! You will need a different version.

4. Installing the Right Telegram Desktop Version

There are two versions of Telegram Desktop. For our purposes, we need the client downloaded directly from the website.

Important

Official Telegram Desktop Website Download the blue version from the website: telegramdesktop.org

Why this exact version?

Lower price: Premium subscription is usually cheaper here due to the absence of store commissions.
Clear downloads folder: A Telegram Downloads folder is created. In the App Store version, files are saved in a hidden system folder that is impossible to find, and it is only cleared by resetting the cache.
Main advantage — Export: Only this version allows exporting the history of channels, chats, personal correspondence, and closed communities.

5. Exporting History for Research

The process of collecting a knowledge base for your NotebookLM looks like this:

1. Use the search to find the necessary channels or chats on the desired topic.
1. Open this chat/channel on your computer.
1. Click on the magic "three dots" in the upper corner of the window.
1. Select the "Export chat history" option.
1. Wait for all data to be downloaded to your computer.

6. Working with Knowledge Base and Practical Queries

When you have downloaded the chat or channel history:

Upload the obtained files to your NotebookLM notebook.
The neural network will quickly analyze all the text, all advice and links discussed over the years.
Now you can ask questions to your notebook and receive comprehensive answers based exclusively on expert data from the exported communities.