---
title: "Import and export cards"
description: "Import cards from text, CSV, or Quizlet exports and export a NeuroCards deck for backup or use elsewhere."
---

> Documentation Index
> Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://docs.neurocards.net/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.

# Import and export cards

Import is useful when your questions and answers already exist elsewhere. Export creates a portable copy of one NeuroCards deck.

## Prepare an import

NeuroCards accepts a `.txt` or `.csv` file, or text pasted directly into the importer. Each entry needs a front and a back, separated consistently.

For example, this text uses a pipe between fields and a new line between cards:

```text
What is RAM? | Volatile main memory
What does the ALU do? | Performs arithmetic and logical operations
```

You can choose from these separators in the importer:

| Purpose | Built-in choices | Example |
| --- | --- | --- |
| Front and back | Pipe, tab, comma, or a custom value | `Question \| Answer` |
| One card and the next | New line, semicolon, blank line, or a custom value | One card per line |

A custom separator can contain up to 10 characters. When you choose a `.csv` file, NeuroCards selects comma as the field separator automatically.

## Import into a deck

1. **Choose the destination**

   Open the deck that should receive the imported cards. Create the deck first if it does not exist yet.
2. **Open the importer**

   Open **Deck actions** and select **Import cards**.
3. **Add the source**

   Choose a `.txt` or `.csv` file, drag it into the panel, or paste its contents.
4. **Match the separators**

   Set the front-and-back separator and the card separator to match the source. The preview updates as you change them.
5. **Check the preview**

   Confirm the detected card count. Review any skipped entries and correct the source or separator settings when needed.
6. **Finish the import**

   Select **Import cards**, then spot-check several cards in the deck.

The importer shows up to five examples of entries it could not read. Common causes are a missing answer, an inconsistent separator, or a header row that is not a card.

### Import from Quizlet

In Quizlet, export the set as text and note the separators selected in its export dialog. Paste that text into NeuroCards, then choose the same field and card separators. Check the preview before importing, especially when a question or answer contains punctuation similar to a separator.

## Export a deck

1. **Open export**

   Open the deck's action menu and select **Export cards**.
2. **Choose a format**

   Select **CSV** for the safest general-purpose export, or **Text** when you need human-readable output with particular separators.
3. **Configure text output**

   For a text export, choose the front-and-back separator and the separator between cards.
4. **Download**

   Select **Export** to download the `.csv` or `.txt` file.

| Format | Best for | Important detail |
| --- | --- | --- |
| CSV | Backups, spreadsheets, and reliable transfer | Special characters are escaped safely |
| Text | Reading or pasting into another flashcard tool | Card content must not conflict with your chosen separators |

> **Caution**
>
> For a text export, choose separators that do not already appear inside your questions or answers. Use CSV when you are unsure.

Keep an exported copy before a large library reorganisation or when moving important material between tools.

Source: https://docs.neurocards.net/guides/import-export/index.mdx