How to use NotebookLM Deep Research

NotebookLM just became easier to use. Google’s research tool now supports more file types and introduces Deep Research, a feature designed to scan the web, organise results and build reliable reports. Here is a simple guide on how to use everything that’s new.

Start with Deep Research

Deep Research works like a background researcher. It takes your question, plans a search and browses hundreds of pages. You receive a structured report based on verified sources. To use it, open the source panel and select Web as the source. Then type your question.

Choose your research style

NotebookLM offers two search styles. Fast Research is ideal when you want quick answers. It scans at speed and shows results instantly. You can then import sources with one click. The longer mode digs deeper and refines the search as it learns from the results.

Add the report to your notebook

When Deep Research completes its scan, you receive an organised summary. You can add this report directly to your notebook. This step locks the sources, insights and structure into your workspace. You can then mix it with your existing files for a wider perspective.

Continue working while it scans

Deep Research does not interrupt your workflow. You can keep adding new material while the agent runs in the background. This helps you build a richer knowledge base without shifting between tools or tabs.

Use NotebookLM’s expanded source support

The update brings support for more file types. You can upload Google Sheets, Drive URLs, images, PDFs from Drive and Word documents. Here is how to use each one.

Google Sheets

Upload a Sheet and ask NotebookLM for summaries or key statistics. It reads the data and highlights important points.

Drive URLs

Copy and paste any Drive link. You can add multiple links separated by commas. NotebookLM treats them like regular sources.

Images

You can upload photos of notes, brochures or hand-written pages. NotebookLM extracts the text and makes it searchable.

Drive PDFs

Import long reports or ebooks directly from Drive. You skip the download step and save time.

Word documents

Upload your .docx files to analyse drafts, essays or research notes.

Build a complete research space

The new update makes NotebookLM more flexible. You can combine Deep Research results with Sheets, PDFs, images and documents to build a full research space. You can also use audio or video overviews to break down the content and learn faster.

These features will roll out to all users within the week. Image uploads will follow shortly.