What Does an HTML Import in Notion Look Like? Best Practices

When working with Notion, users often wonder: what does an HTML import in Notion look like? Unlike a web browser, Notion does not render HTML directly but converts it into its block-based format. This article explores how Notion processes HTML imports, the limitations of this feature, and alternative ways to structure and display content effectively.

4/19/20253 min read

What Does an HTML Import in Notion Look Like?

Notion is a versatile tool that enhances personal organization by allowing users to import various content types. However, what does an HTML import in Notion look like?

When users attempt to import HTML files, Notion does not render them as a browser would. This article explores how Notion handles HTML imports, its limitations, and the best alternatives to achieve optimal formatting and functionality.

Key Points About Importing HTML in Notion

Parsing HTML Content

When importing HTML into Notion, the platform attempts to interpret the HTML content and convert it into corresponding Notion blocks.

This process involves extracting text from tags like <p>, <h1> to <h6>, and <li>, transforming them into paragraphs, headings, and list items within Notion.

Limitations of HTML Imports

Notion's HTML import functionality has certain limitations:

Complex Formatting: Advanced CSS styles and JavaScript are ignored during the import process.
Tables and Images: While tables and images are imported, their formatting may not match the original HTML.
Interactive Elements: Dynamic content relying on JavaScript will not function in Notion.

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How to Import HTML in Notion

Step-by-Step Guide

Open Notion.
Go to Settings in the sidebar.
Click on the Import section and select HTML.
Select the HTML file you wish to import.
Notion will create a new page, process the file and convert its content into Notion blocks.

Supported HTML Elements

Notion supports basic HTML elements during import, including:

Headings: <h1> to <h6> tags are converted to Notion headings.
Paragraphs: <p> tags become text blocks.
Lists: Ordered and unordered lists are maintained.
Links: <a> tags are transformed into clickable links.

Learn more about Notion here.

Alternatives to HTML Importing in Notion

Using Code Blocks

For users who need to display code or HTML content without rendering, Notion's code blocks are a suitable alternative. These blocks preserve the formatting and allow for syntax highlighting.

Utilizing the Embed Block

Notion's embed block enables users to incorporate external content, such as web pages or applications, directly into their Notion pages. This feature is useful for integrating dynamic content that cannot be imported directly.

What Does an HTML Import in Notion Look Like?Visualizing Data with Mermaid in Notion

Introduction to Mermaid

Mermaid is a JavaScript-based tool that enables users to create diagrams and visualizations using text-based descriptions. Notion has integrated Mermaid support within its code blocks, allowing for the creation of flowcharts, sequence diagrams, and more.

Want better scheduling? Learn in this article how to add events Notion Calendar.

Creating Diagrams

To create a diagram in Notion using Mermaid:

Insert a code block by typing /code.
Set the language to Mermaid.
Enter the Mermaid syntax to define your diagram.
Choose between Code, Preview, or Split view to see the diagram rendered.

Conclusion: What Does an HTML Import in Notion Look Like?

Importing HTML into Notion provides a method to transfer content while preserving basic formatting. However, what does an HTML import in Notion look like in practice?

Since Notion does not natively render HTML as a browser would, users must rely on Notion's block-based approach.

Adjustments may be necessary for optimal display, and utilizing features like embeds, code blocks and Mermaid diagrams can help structure and present imported content more effectively.