# Export notes: which format should you choose?

Source: https://lognoteapp.com/en/guides/choose-note-export-format
Language: en

The best export format depends on what the recipient needs to do with your notes. A document for reading, a file for editing, and data for analysis are different jobs. Lognote offers seven export formats; this guide explains the practical choice without treating an export as a full backup.

## For reading and sharing: PDF

Choose PDF when the recipient should read or print a stable document. It works well for a handover or a report. It is less convenient when someone needs to edit individual entries or calculate with their timestamps. Before sharing, preview the file and check whether attachments and private details are included.

## For further writing: TXT, Markdown, RTF or HTML

Plain text is the simplest choice for copying the words into another system. Markdown is useful when you want portable headings and simple formatting in a text-based workflow. RTF is suitable for further editing in a word processor. HTML is useful when a document will continue in a browser or web workflow. Test an exported sample in the destination app because formatting and media support vary.

## For tables and automation: CSV or JSON

CSV is a practical starting point for sorting entries in a spreadsheet. JSON is better when a script or another tool needs structured fields. These formats are useful for analysis, but they are less pleasant to read as a finished report. Check which fields your chosen export includes before relying on an automated process.

## Example: one log, three destinations

Suppose a project log contains several timestamped entries. Send a PDF to someone who only needs to read it. Choose CSV to review the entries in a spreadsheet. Choose Markdown when you want to continue writing in a text editor. This is a fictional workflow example; the precise output depends on your export selection and the content of the note.

## Export and backup serve different purposes

An export gives you a portable copy for sharing or further work. It does not promise a complete restoration of your Lognote data, settings and attachments. If you need to recover the app later, create and check a backup using Lognote's backup function. Keep both files only as long as you need them and share sensitive records carefully.

- [Export feature](https://lognoteapp.com/en/features/multi-format-export)
- [Daily work log example](https://lognoteapp.com/en/guides/daily-work-log)