How to Create Notes in Gmail: Easy Walkthrough for Beginners

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Last update: January 7, 2026
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    Gmail does not offer a built-in way to attach notes directly to emails. That gap often leads people to search for workarounds that keep reminders, ideas, or context close to essential conversations.

    The good news is that you can still create notes in Gmail using native Google tools like Google Keep, or by using collaboration tools that sit inside your inbox. In this guide, we walk you through the most practical options, step by step.

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    When Should You Use Notes in Gmail?

    Notes help when emails carry more context than the message itself. Gmail-based teams often rely on notes to stay organised without switching tools.

    Use notes in Gmail when you need to:

    • Track next steps like follow-ups or pending replies
    • Record conversation context, such as call summaries or client preferences
    • Share internal updates without looping customers into CC chains
    • Reduce app switching while working inside Gmail all day

    For customer service, sales, and operations teams, notes prevent context loss and help everyone stay aligned.

    How to Create Notes in Gmail: Step-by-Step Guide

    Creating notes in Gmail helps you capture important ideas, reminders, or to-dos without leaving your inbox. Follow the steps below to start managing your Gmail notes efficiently.

    Step 1: Open Gmail on Desktop

    Sign in to your Gmail account using a desktop browser. The Google Keep sidebar is only available on desktop.

    Step 2: Access Google Keep

    Look at the right-hand sidebar and click the Google Keep icon, shown as a yellow lightbulb.

    Screenshot highlighting the Google Keep icon in the Gmail right-hand sidebar.
    Click the Google Keep icon in the Gmail sidebar to open the notes panel.

    Step 3: Create a New Note

    Click the “Take a note” field at the top of the Keep panel. A text box opens instantly.

    Screenshot showing the “Take a note” field inside the Google Keep panel in Gmail.
    Click “Take a note” to start creating a new note in Gmail.

    Step 4: Add Content to Your Note

    Type reminders, ideas, or snippets you want to save. Google Keep saves notes automatically as you type.

    Step 5: Pin Important Notes

    Pin important notes to keep them at the top. Add labels to group notes by topic or priority.

    Screenshot showing pin and label options on a Google Keep note in Gmail.
    Pin important notes or add labels to keep your notes organised.

    Note: Google Notes sync automatically across devices where you use the same Google account.

    Step 6: Delete or Archive Notes

    Archive notes you might need later, or delete notes that are no longer relevant.

    Screenshot showing archive and delete icons on a Google Keep note.
    Archive notes for later or delete notes you no longer need.

    You’ve successfully created and managed notes in Gmail using Google Keep. Your notes are now neatly organized within Gmail, ready for easy access.

    Boost Your Gmail Productivity with Notes

    You now know how to create, organise, and manage notes in Gmail using Google Keep. Notes help you capture ideas, track tasks, and keep important details close to your inbox, so nothing gets missed during a busy day.

    Want to take Gmail notes beyond personal reminders? 

    Try Hiver to add shared notes, assign tasks, and collaborate with your team directly inside Gmail. Start a free trial to see it in action.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    1. How do Gmail notes sync across devices?

    Notes created using Google Keep sync automatically when you sign in with the same Google account on each device.

    2. Can Gmail notes be shared with teammates?

    Yes. Google Keep notes can be shared manually, but they are not tied to email threads. Tools like Hiver allow internal notes to be shared directly within conversations.

    3. Where can I find my notes later?

    Google Keep notes appear in the Gmail sidebar and in the Keep app. Hiver notes appear inside the related email threads and are searchable using Gmail search.

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