Build a custom Base

TaskNotes views are ordinary Obsidian .base files. The safest workflow is to copy a generated Base, give it a new path, and customize the copy.

Start from a copy#

1. Open TaskNotes/Views/ in the file explorer.
2. Duplicate the closest default, such as tasks-default.base.
3. Rename the copy, for example work-tasks.base.
4. Open the copy and make changes with the Bases interface or source editor.

Avoid editing the only copy of a generated default. Update default base files replaces the files configured as defaults.

Preserve task identification#

Every task view needs a filter that matches the identification method in Settings → TaskNotes → General.

For tag identification:

filters:
  and:
    - file.hasTag("task")

For property identification:

filters:
  and:
    - note["type"] == "task"

Also preserve any excluded-folder conditions generated from your settings.

Add a focused view#

This example starts with recognized tasks, then limits the view to the work context:

filters:
  and:
    - file.hasTag("task")
    - list(contexts).contains("work")

views:
  - type: tasknotesTaskList
    name: Work
    order:
      - status
      - priority
      - due
      - file.name
    sort:
      - column: due
        direction: ASC

Use canonical stored values in filters. Natural-language prefixes such as @ and # are input syntax, not part of stored context and tag values.

Point a command at the custom Base#

Open Settings → TaskNotes → General → View commands and change the relevant command path. Resetting that mapping returns it to the generated default path.

Upgrade safely#

When TaskNotes ships improved templates:

1. Keep your custom file at its own path.
2. Run Update default base files.
3. Compare the regenerated default with your copy.
4. Bring across only the formulas, filters, or view options you want.

The generated template reference always reflects the current source and default field mapping.

Recovery#

If a custom Base no longer opens, validate its YAML indentation and remove the most recent filter or formula change. You can create a fresh default from settings at any time, then copy your custom view into it one section at a time.