Context
Cursor
Intermediate
Notepads in Cursor
Save reusable context blocks that you can attach to any conversation
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What are Notepads?
Notepads are saved text snippets in Cursor that you can attach to any chat with @notepads. Reusable context blocks, like bookmarks for instructions.
When to use Notepads vs Rules
| Use Notepads for... | Use Rules for... |
|---|---|
| Context you need sometimes | Rules that always apply |
| API docs, design specs | Coding conventions |
| One-off reference material | File-pattern-based behavior |
| Temporary project notes | Persistent project standards |
Creating a Notepad
- Open the Notepads panel (sidebar)
- Click "New Notepad"
- Give it a name and paste your content
Example: save your API schema, design system tokens, or a feature spec.
Using in conversation
@notepad:api-schema add a new endpoint for user preferences @notepad:design-tokens create a card component using our color system
Tips
- Keep notepads focused on one topic
- Update them as specs change
- Use them for context outside code files (design docs, meeting notes, requirements)
Source: docs.cursor.com/context/notepads