Custom Properties
User-defined database fields in Notion that let you capture and structure data with tailored property types.
Definition
Custom properties are the user-configured fields you add to Notion databases to capture the exact data your team needs. Each property can be assigned a specific type—such as Text, Number, Select, Multi-select, Date, Person, Files & Media, Checkbox, Formula, Relation, or Rollup—allowing you to model anything from task priorities and due dates to budget figures and team assignments. You can rename, reorder, and set defaults for each property to maintain consistency across entries.
Usage & Context
Whenever you create a new database or edit an existing one—whether in Table, Board, List, Calendar, or Gallery view—you click “+ Add a property” or open the Properties menu to define a custom field. Choose the appropriate type, give it a name, and configure any extra options (like select choices or formula syntax). Once added, these properties appear as columns or metadata fields on each page, powering filters, sorts, and views across your workspace.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How do I add a custom property to my database?
- Open your database, click the “+ Add a property” button (in Table view) or click “Properties” in other views, then select a type and name it. The new field appears immediately on each entry.
- Can I change the order or name of a property?
- Yes. Hover over the property name, drag the handle to reorder, or click the name to edit its label at any time.
- What property types can I choose from?
- Notion supports Text, Number, Select, Multi-select, Date, Person, Files & Media, Checkbox, Formula, Relation, and Rollup. Each serves different data-capture needs.
- Are custom properties usable with the Notion API?
- Absolutely. The Notion API lets you read, create, update, and filter database entries by any custom property, enabling integrations and automated workflows.
- Can I lock or restrict editing custom properties?
- Page-level and database permissions let you control who can view or edit entries. You can also lock individual pages to prevent any property changes within.
Benefits
Custom properties bring structure and clarity to your databases by matching your unique workflows—ensuring data consistency, improving search and reporting, and enabling powerful filters and formulas without leaving Notion.
Related Terms
Checkbox
A toggleable field or block in Notion for marking items as complete or tracking true/false status within pages and databases.
Aggregation
Feature that calculates summary values—sums, averages, counts, and more—across database entries, giving quick insights at the bottom of any view.
API
The Notion API lets developers access and manipulate content in Notion workspaces programmatically. Integrate external apps, automate workflows, and build custom tools.
Automation
Use Automations in Notion to trigger actions—like creating pages, sending notifications, or updating records—when specific events occur, saving time on repetitive tasks.
Calendar View
A database view displaying items on a monthly calendar layout based on a date property, helping you organize events, tasks, and deadlines chronologically.
Database
A Database in Notion is a collection of structured pages with customizable properties and flexible views. Organize and track tasks, notes, projects, or any data dynamically.
Database Filter
Filters let you narrow down database entries based on property conditions. Use filters to display only the records you need in any view.
Database Relations
A property linking entries across Notion databases, creating bidirectional connections for dynamic, relational data modeling and insights.
Database Template
A predefined layout for database entries, setting default properties and content to standardize and speed up data entry in Notion.
A database property for storing email addresses. Enables direct email composition, validation, and integration with external tools.
Files & Media
Upload and manage documents, images, audio, and video directly in Notion pages and databases. Enhance visuals, share resources, and collaborate seamlessly with built-in file support.
Formula
A database property that calculates and transforms values using functions. Create dynamic outputs like dates, text manipulation, logical checks, and math operations.
Conclusion
Custom properties are at the heart of any effective Notion database. By defining exactly what information matters—whether dates, tags, numeric values, or relationships—you make your workspace both flexible and robust, ready to scale with any project or team.
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