Smart Templates FAQs
What is Smart Templates for Obsidian?
#Smart Templates turns Markdown templates into reusable AI workflows. Start from the current note or selected text, add the context the task needs, select one or more templates, and add a short request-specific instruction.
Core copies the completed prompt. Templates Pro can generate and review the output inside Obsidian.
What is the current workflow?
#The shared preparation flow is:
current note or selection -> context -> template -> instructions
Then choose the output path:
Core -> Copy prompt
Pro -> Generate -> Review -> Copy, Insert, Create note, or Regenerate
Both editions use the same Template Context modal for preparing the request.
Does Smart Templates replace Obsidian Templates?
#No. Obsidian Templates inserts predefined content into notes. Smart Templates uses template content as reusable AI structure layered onto the current note, selection, and optional supporting context.
You can point Smart Templates at an existing Obsidian Templates folder.
Do I need an API key?
#Not for Core. Core builds the prompt locally and copies it so you can use ChatGPT, Claude, Gemini, Smart Chat, or another AI interface.
Templates Pro generation requires one compatible model configured for the Generate workflow. Provider-backed generation sends the reviewed prompt and context through that provider when you choose Generate.
What is the difference between Core and Pro?
#| Core | Templates Pro |
|---|---|
| Discover and select templates | Everything in Core |
| Start from the current note or selection | Generate inside Obsidian |
| Add context and instructions | Review generated output |
| Combine multiple templates | Copy, insert, or create a note |
| Copy the completed prompt | Regenerate or override the model for one request |
Use Core when an external or existing chat interface is already the right destination. Use Pro when generation and review should remain in Obsidian.
What does Generate do in Templates Pro?
#Generate sends the reviewed Template Context request to the selected compatible model and opens the result in a review surface. The output is not inserted automatically.
After review, you can copy it, insert it into the current note, create a new note, or regenerate.
Can I control which model Generate uses?
#Yes. Templates Pro supports a default Generate model in settings and a per-request override. A per-request choice changes that run, not the saved default.
How are templates detected?
#Smart Templates can discover templates from configured folders, the Obsidian Templates folder, notes marked with smart template: true, a configured filename rule, or matching headings. Built-in templates remain available before vault-specific setup.
Can I keep multiple templates in one note?
#Yes. Matching headings can act as separate reusable templates, allowing one note to hold several related prompt structures.
Can I use more than one template at once?
#Yes. Smart Templates combines selected templates in selection order. Review the completed request when order affects section sequence or instruction priority.
Can I use Smart Templates with ChatGPT, Claude, Gemini, or Smart Chat?
#Yes. Use Core to copy the prompt into any compatible interface. Templates Pro adds a native Generate path when you want to keep the request, output review, and destination action inside Obsidian.
How is Smart Templates different from Smart Context?
#Smart Context determines which source material belongs in the package. Smart Templates determines the reusable output structure and request instructions.
Use both when the task needs carefully assembled evidence and a repeatable result format.
Does Smart Templates keep my notes private and local-first?
#Core prepares the request in Obsidian and copies it to the clipboard. Content leaves Obsidian when you paste or send it to another application or provider.
Templates Pro sends content only when you choose Generate through a configured model. Review the context, template, instructions, and provider before sending sensitive material.
How do I know Copy prompt worked?
#Paste into a clean composer or temporary note and verify that the intended context, selected templates, and request-specific instructions are present. A copy confirmation shows that the action completed; the paste shows what was copied.
How do I know Generate worked?
#A generated result appears in the review surface. Inspect it against the source context and template before choosing Insert or Create note. The workflow is complete when one reviewed output reaches the intended destination.