Vibecode Notion
track this build5 phases, 15 steps, beginner friendly0%KINDA · weekend project
A solo notes-and-database workspace is buildable, but Notion's block editor, permissions, sync, templates, AI, integrations, and collaboration take real product work.
the project pack5 files · written for this build, step by step
You are building a lean indie version of Notion. Create the following project files first, then implement the application by following them. Keep the files updated as decisions change. Do not collapse this into a single README or prompt. ===== README.md ===== # Notion · indie build Build a local block notebook with a small typed database view. Estimated effort: **multi-day**. Work `BUILD_PLAN.md` top to bottom · every phase ends in a check that has to pass before the next one starts. ## Stack | Part | Choice | Why | | --- | --- | --- | | Runtime | Python 3.12+ and Flask | A small local HTTP application with readable server-side handlers and no JavaScript build pipeline. | | Storage | SQLite through Python sqlite3 | Local ownership with explicit transactions and a portable backup path. | | Interface | Jinja HTML templates, CSS and vanilla JavaScript | Implement the specified screens directly with labelled controls and progressive enhancement. | | Verification | Python unittest and browser acceptance fixtures | Check invariants and the actual user workflow before the next phase. | ## Before you start Have every one of these ready. The plan assumes them from step one. - [ ] **Python 3.12 or newer and a terminal** · Python is free; this local prototype requires no hosting subscription. - Why: The local backend, tests and storage use Python. - Get it: Install Python from python.org. Open a terminal in a new empty project folder. On Windows, use py -3 where this guide says python if python is not on PATH; on macOS/Linux use python3 if needed. Create .venv and activate it before installing packages. - Verify: python --version reports 3.12+ and python -c "import sqlite3" succeeds. - [ ] **A current desktop browser and text editor** · No paid service required for this local step. - Why: You need to view the local interface and edit generated project files. - Get it: Use an installed Chrome, Firefox or Edge browser. Open the empty project folder in your editor; open the terminal there, not in this catalog repository. - Verify: You can create a text file in the project folder and open browser developer tools. - [ ] **Notion acceptance sample** · No paid service required for this local step. - Why: This fixture makes the first end-to-end check reproducible. - Get it: Create synthetic sample data before implementation: A project page containing a heading, checklist, child note and two database rows. Save it under fixtures/ with the expected results in fixtures/README.md; use no real credentials or customer records. - Verify: The fixture files and expected outcomes exist and can be inspected without a vendor account. - [ ] **Confirm the bounded replacement** · No paid service required for this local step. - Why: The full commercial product is larger than this guide. - Get it: The deliverable is a local block notebook with a small typed database view. Read every exclusion below. Indie mode runs locally; any public or shared use requires the product access and deployment gates first. - Verify: You can name the primary workflow and the vendor features this version deliberately leaves out. ## Quick start ```sh python -m venv .venv python -m pip install Flask Flask-WTF python-dotenv waitress tzdata python -m pip freeze > requirements.txt python -m flask --app app run --host 127.0.0.1 ``` Then copy `.env.example` to `.env` and fill in the values it documents. ## Honest limits This build deliberately does not replace: - This is a local block notebook with a small typed database view; full Notion feature parity, vendor hosting and support are not included. - mature block editor - cross-device sync - permissions - database views - templates marketplace - integrations - AI workspace context If one of those is essential to you, that is the reason to keep paying for Notion, and the README should say so rather than pretend. ===== BRIEF.md ===== # Build brief · Notion The one-shot brief this plan expands. `BUILD_PLAN.md` (or `MILESTONES.md`) is the same sequence broken into steps and checks; where the two disagree, the plan wins. Build me a local block notebook with a small typed database view as a bounded replacement for Notion. Build it in phases in the order below. Do not write the whole product in one pass. Finish the current phase, run its Done when checks, fix failures, then continue. Indie mode completes Phases 1-5. Phase 6 is required before shared or public deployment. ### Stack (fixed, do not substitute) - Runtime: Python 3.12+ and Flask. A small local HTTP application with readable server-side handlers and no JavaScript build pipeline. - Storage: SQLite through Python sqlite3. Local ownership with explicit transactions and a portable backup path. - Interface: Jinja HTML templates, CSS and vanilla JavaScript. Implement the specified screens directly with labelled controls and progressive enhancement. - Verification: Python unittest and browser acceptance fixtures. Check invariants and the actual user workflow before the next phase. ### Data model (create this before Phase 1) - pages(id,parent_id,title,revision) - blocks(id,page_id,position,type,content_json) - properties(id,page_id,name,type) - rows(id,page_id,values_json) - links(source_page,target_page) - revisions(id,page_id,snapshot) - Use stable ids and explicit relationships; add auxiliary tables named by the phases before those phases use them. - Acceptance fixture: A project page containing a heading, checklist, child note and two database rows. ### Prerequisites and configuration - Python 3.12 or newer and a terminal: Install Python from python.org. Open a terminal in a new empty project folder. On Windows, use py -3 where this guide says python if python is not on PATH; on macOS/Linux use python3 if needed. Create .venv and activate it before installing packages. Verify: python --version reports 3.12+ and python -c "import sqlite3" succeeds. Cost: Python is free; this local prototype requires no hosting subscription. - A current desktop browser and text editor: Use an installed Chrome, Firefox or Edge browser. Open the empty project folder in your editor; open the terminal there, not in this catalog repository. Verify: You can create a text file in the project folder and open browser developer tools. Cost: No paid service required for this local step. - Notion acceptance sample: Create synthetic sample data before implementation: A project page containing a heading, checklist, child note and two database rows. Save it under fixtures/ with the expected results in fixtures/README.md; use no real credentials or customer records. Verify: The fixture files and expected outcomes exist and can be inspected without a vendor account. Cost: No paid service required for this local step. - Confirm the bounded replacement: The deliverable is a local block notebook with a small typed database view. Read every exclusion below. Indie mode runs locally; any public or shared use requires the product access and deployment gates first. Verify: You can name the primary workflow and the vendor features this version deliberately leaves out. Cost: No paid service required for this local step. - Configuration: DATA_DIR, SECRET_KEY, APP_MODE, SITE_URL. Ship .env.example, replace placeholders and exclude secrets from git. ### Phase 1 · Local foundation and data contract Build: Create the runnable local foundation for a local block notebook with a small typed database view, including the real schema and acceptance fixture. - Run the venv command first, then stop and activate it before running the remaining commands. Use your OS instructions: Windows .venv\Scripts\activate.bat in cmd, or .venv\Scripts\Activate.ps1 in PowerShell; macOS/Linux source .venv/bin/activate. Then install the listed packages. Create app.py exposing app, load .env with python-dotenv, and add a /healthz route. Freeze tested dependency versions to requirements.txt. Create .env manually from .env.example; replace SECRET_KEY before launch. Commands, after creating the named files: `python -m venv .venv`; `python -m pip install Flask Flask-WTF python-dotenv waitress tzdata`; `python -m pip freeze > requirements.txt`; `python -m flask --app app run --host 127.0.0.1`. - For database-backed state create schema.sql and db.py using this model: pages(id,parent_id,title,revision); blocks(id,page_id,position,type,content_json); properties(id,page_id,name,type); rows(id,page_id,values_json); links(source_page,target_page); revisions(id,page_id,snapshot). Add the auxiliary relationships explicitly used in later phases; use stable ids, foreign keys, parameterized values and transactions. For canonical files use atomic replacement and hashes instead. Implement python manage.py init and python manage.py seed to create only synthetic data: A project page containing a heading, checklist, child note and two database rows. Re-running init must not erase data. Commands, after creating the named files: `python manage.py init`; `python manage.py seed`. - Install Flask-WTF CSRF protection for forms and same-origin fetches, validate Host and Origin against SITE_URL, bound inputs and escape output. Deliberately public intake endpoints get bounded validation and rate limits; signed provider webhooks use signature checks instead of browser CSRF tokens. All other admin routes stay local until product authentication exists. When a later phase tests viewer/member permissions, implement the users, hashed passwords, expiring server sessions and role checks in this foundation first; product mode must never use a fabricated identity from request input. Add error, empty, keyboard-focus and retry states now. - Trap: The Flask development server is for local development only. Loopback binding alone does not replace CSRF and origin validation. Done when: The documented start command serves /healthz and the initial screen at http://127.0.0.1:5000. Restarting preserves the seeded records or canonical files; running init again deletes nothing. A cross-origin state-changing request to an admin route is refused. Do not build yet: Do not start page tree and blocks until these checks pass. ### Phase 2 · Page tree and blocks Build: Page tree and blocks for Notion: Implement paragraph, heading, checklist and code blocks with stable ids and explicit up/down controls. - Implement paragraph, heading, checklist and code blocks with stable ids and explicit up/down controls. - Add page nesting and moving with cycle checks; save edits against the page revision. - Use A project page containing a heading, checklist, child note and two database rows. Check: Moving a page beneath its own descendant is refused. Then check: Reordering a checklist preserves its checked state and id after reload. Add a focused regression for the failure case under test/ using a temporary database or folder and fake external services; also perform the visible workflow in a browser. Commands, after creating the named files: `python -m unittest discover -s test`. - Trap: Do not use array position as persistent block identity. Done when: Moving a page beneath its own descendant is refused. Reordering a checklist preserves its checked state and id after reload. Do not build yet: Do not start structured rows and links until these checks pass. ### Phase 3 · Structured rows and links Build: Structured rows and links for Notion: Add a database block supporting text, status and date columns with table and board views. - Add a database block supporting text, status and date columns with table and board views. - Implement page links and backlinks by id; show missing targets and search titles plus plain block text. - Use A project page containing a heading, checklist, child note and two database rows. Check: A renamed page keeps all incoming links. Then check: Changing a row status moves it in both table and board without duplication. Add a focused regression for the failure case under test/ using a temporary database or folder and fake external services; also perform the visible workflow in a browser. Commands, after creating the named files: `python -m unittest discover -s test`. - Trap: Do not build a formula language, embedded scripts or arbitrary third-party widgets in v1. Done when: A renamed page keeps all incoming links. Changing a row status moves it in both table and board without duplication. Do not build yet: Do not start revision and export until these checks pass. ### Phase 4 · Revision and export Build: Revision and export for Notion: Save immutable page snapshots and restore them as a new revision with a visible diff. - Save immutable page snapshots and restore them as a new revision with a visible diff. - Export Markdown for readable content plus JSON for typed rows, block ids and tree relationships. - Use A project page containing a heading, checklist, child note and two database rows. Check: Restoring a previous page version creates a new history entry. Then check: Export/import preserves the nested page and database status values. Add a focused regression for the failure case under test/ using a temporary database or folder and fake external services; also perform the visible workflow in a browser. Commands, after creating the named files: `python -m unittest discover -s test`. - Trap: Markdown alone cannot losslessly encode a structured block database. Done when: Restoring a previous page version creates a new history entry. Export/import preserves the nested page and database status values. Do not build yet: Do not start portable delivery and clean-start proof until these checks pass. ### Phase 5 · Portable delivery and clean-start proof Build: Finish the Notion replacement with a documented first-run path and a recoverable export. - Document prerequisites, every configuration variable, data locations and the three domain workflows: Page tree and blocks; Structured rows and links; Revision and export. Include the exclusions, actual costs and source check date 2026-09-05. Commands shown earlier that reference project files are files the builder must implement before running them. - Use sqlite3.Connection.backup for the database in DATA_DIR and pause writers while taking the matching attachment snapshot. Keep schema version, hashes and a manifest for notion. Restore into a separate empty directory or isolated deployment, with all outbound actions and schedules disabled. Recreate this proof: A project page containing a heading, checklist, child note and two database rows. Compare ids/counts and open the result before recording the restore date. Never test a restore over the only live copy. - Use a new folder and only README instructions to reach the fixture outcome. Install from requirements.txt, initialize storage, run the tests and exercise the UI at 375px and 1280px; use keyboard-only controls and inspect browser errors. Record exactly what passed; do not mark unrun checks complete. Commands, after creating the named files: `python -m pip install -r requirements.txt`; `python -m unittest discover -s test`. - Trap: Export without an import or restore rehearsal is not verified portability. Done when: A new folder reaches the documented fixture outcome using only README instructions. A backup restored in isolation preserves the proof data and can be opened. Do not build yet: Do not start operate and share with access controls until these checks pass. ### Phase 6 · Operate and share with access controls (product-builder only) Build: Product-builder only: make a local block notebook with a small typed database view operable for its stated audience before allowing remote access. - Add owner/member/viewer authorization as appropriate, password hashes through Werkzeug, expiring server-side sessions, CSRF and login rate limits. Add users, sessions and audit schema migrations plus an owner-init command prompting securely for its password. Enforce ownership on every private read/write/download and fail closed when product setup is incomplete. Existing learner or admin identities must use this same boundary. - Serve app:app with Waitress on loopback behind Caddy HTTPS. Configure trusted proxy headers narrowly, Secure/HttpOnly/SameSite cookies, upload limits, request ids and structured logs without private content. Run background jobs as a separate supervised process when the domain workflow requires them. Commands, after creating the named files: `waitress-serve --listen=127.0.0.1:5000 app:app`. - Add a scheduled encrypted off-host backup using this procedure: Use sqlite3.Connection.backup for the database in DATA_DIR and pause writers while taking the matching attachment snapshot. Keep schema version, hashes and a manifest for notion. Monitor health, disk space, failed jobs and backup age. Stop the service to test an alert; rehearse recovery with outbound effects disabled and record recovery time. Rotate any exposed credentials and require reconciliation before resuming queues. - Trap: Product mode is additional engineering, not a switch that makes a local prototype production-ready. Done when: An unauthenticated visitor cannot read private records, download private files or mutate the admin surface. A viewer cannot mutate data by making a direct request, and guessed ids cannot cross ownership boundaries. Stopping the service triggers the configured alert and the latest off-host backup restores the fixture in isolation. Do not build yet: Do not add new providers or vendor-scale features until the release gates are recorded. ### Out of scope (and why) - This is a local block notebook with a small typed database view; full Notion feature parity, vendor hosting and support are not included. - mature block editor: retain the paid product if this capability is essential; it is outside this bounded build. - cross-device sync: retain the paid product if this capability is essential; it is outside this bounded build. - permissions: retain the paid product if this capability is essential; it is outside this bounded build. - database views: retain the paid product if this capability is essential; it is outside this bounded build. - templates marketplace: retain the paid product if this capability is essential; it is outside this bounded build. - integrations: retain the paid product if this capability is essential; it is outside this bounded build. - AI workspace context: retain the paid product if this capability is essential; it is outside this bounded build. ### README must contain - Exact install, configure, initialize, start, test and recovery commands for a clean folder. - The schema, fixture, acceptance results, private data locations and export format. - Every prerequisite and secret source, actual running costs and deliberately excluded capabilities. - An honest distinction between tests actually run and checks still awaiting real credentials or deployment. - Dependency documentation reviewed 2026-09-05: https://flask.palletsprojects.com/en/stable/installation/ ; https://docs.python.org/3/library/sqlite3.html ; https://flask-wtf.readthedocs.io/en/1.2.x/csrf/ ; https://docs.pylonsproject.org/projects/waitress/en/stable/usage.html. Recheck before upgrading; freeze the versions actually tested. ===== AGENTS.md ===== # Agent instructions · Notion indie build - Read `README.md` and `BUILD_PLAN.md` before writing code. The stack is fixed: Python 3.12+ and Flask, SQLite through Python sqlite3, Jinja HTML templates, CSS and vanilla JavaScript, Python unittest and browser acceptance fixtures. Do not substitute. - Work one phase at a time, in order. Do not start a phase until every "Done when" item of the previous one passes. - Prefer the fewest moving parts that satisfy the step. No frameworks, services or dependencies the plan does not name. - Secrets live in `.env`, never in source or logs. Keep `.env.example` current when a variable is introduced. - Do not invent cryptography, security guarantees, APIs or compliance claims. - Add a focused test for every destructive, security-sensitive or data-loss path the plan names. - Run the project checks before declaring a phase complete, and record any deliberate shortcut in the README under "Tradeoffs". ## Known traps - The Flask development server is for local development only. Loopback binding alone does not replace CSRF and origin validation. - Do not use array position as persistent block identity. - Do not build a formula language, embedded scripts or arbitrary third-party widgets in v1. - Markdown alone cannot losslessly encode a structured block database. - Export without an import or restore rehearsal is not verified portability. ===== BUILD_PLAN.md ===== # Build plan · Notion Build a local block notebook with a small typed database view. Phases are in dependency order. Each ends in a "Done when" list; treat an unticked item as a blocker, not a note. ## Phase 1 · Local foundation and data contract Create the runnable local foundation for a local block notebook with a small typed database view, including the real schema and acceptance fixture. ### Steps 1. Create and start the local application Run the venv command first, then stop and activate it before running the remaining commands. Use your OS instructions: Windows .venv\Scripts\activate.bat in cmd, or .venv\Scripts\Activate.ps1 in PowerShell; macOS/Linux source .venv/bin/activate. Then install the listed packages. Create app.py exposing app, load .env with python-dotenv, and add a /healthz route. Freeze tested dependency versions to requirements.txt. Create .env manually from .env.example; replace SECRET_KEY before launch. Files: `app.py`, `requirements.txt`, `.env.example`, `.gitignore` ```sh python -m venv .venv python -m pip install Flask Flask-WTF python-dotenv waitress tzdata python -m pip freeze > requirements.txt python -m flask --app app run --host 127.0.0.1 ``` 2. Implement storage and seed the named fixture For database-backed state create schema.sql and db.py using this model: pages(id,parent_id,title,revision); blocks(id,page_id,position,type,content_json); properties(id,page_id,name,type); rows(id,page_id,values_json); links(source_page,target_page); revisions(id,page_id,snapshot). Add the auxiliary relationships explicitly used in later phases; use stable ids, foreign keys, parameterized values and transactions. For canonical files use atomic replacement and hashes instead. Implement python manage.py init and python manage.py seed to create only synthetic data: A project page containing a heading, checklist, child note and two database rows. Re-running init must not erase data. Files: `schema.sql`, `db.py`, `manage.py`, `fixtures/README.md` ```sh python manage.py init python manage.py seed ``` 3. Protect the local request boundary Install Flask-WTF CSRF protection for forms and same-origin fetches, validate Host and Origin against SITE_URL, bound inputs and escape output. Deliberately public intake endpoints get bounded validation and rate limits; signed provider webhooks use signature checks instead of browser CSRF tokens. All other admin routes stay local until product authentication exists. When a later phase tests viewer/member permissions, implement the users, hashed passwords, expiring server sessions and role checks in this foundation first; product mode must never use a fabricated identity from request input. Add error, empty, keyboard-focus and retry states now. Files: `app.py`, `templates/base.html`, `test/test_foundation.py` ### Done when - [ ] The documented start command serves /healthz and the initial screen at http://127.0.0.1:5000. - [ ] Restarting preserves the seeded records or canonical files; running init again deletes nothing. - [ ] A cross-origin state-changing request to an admin route is refused. ### Watch out - The Flask development server is for local development only. Loopback binding alone does not replace CSRF and origin validation. ## Phase 2 · Page tree and blocks Page tree and blocks for Notion: Implement paragraph, heading, checklist and code blocks with stable ids and explicit up/down controls. ### Steps 1. Implement paragraph, heading, checklist and code blocks with stable ids and explicit up/down controls. Implement paragraph, heading, checklist and code blocks with stable ids and explicit up/down controls. Files: `features/page_tree_and_blocks.py`, `templates/page_tree_and_blocks.html` 2. Add page nesting and moving with cycle checks; save edits against the page revision. Add page nesting and moving with cycle checks; save edits against the page revision. Files: `features/page_tree_and_blocks.py` 3. Exercise the acceptance fixture Use A project page containing a heading, checklist, child note and two database rows. Check: Moving a page beneath its own descendant is refused. Then check: Reordering a checklist preserves its checked state and id after reload. Add a focused regression for the failure case under test/ using a temporary database or folder and fake external services; also perform the visible workflow in a browser. Files: `test/test_page_tree_and_blocks.py` ```sh python -m unittest discover -s test ``` ### Done when - [ ] Moving a page beneath its own descendant is refused. - [ ] Reordering a checklist preserves its checked state and id after reload. ### Watch out - Do not use array position as persistent block identity. ## Phase 3 · Structured rows and links Structured rows and links for Notion: Add a database block supporting text, status and date columns with table and board views. ### Steps 1. Add a database block supporting text, status and date columns with table and board views. Add a database block supporting text, status and date columns with table and board views. Files: `features/structured_rows_and_links.py`, `templates/structured_rows_and_links.html` 2. Implement page links and backlinks by id; show missing targets and search titles plus plain block text. Implement page links and backlinks by id; show missing targets and search titles plus plain block text. Files: `features/structured_rows_and_links.py` 3. Exercise the acceptance fixture Use A project page containing a heading, checklist, child note and two database rows. Check: A renamed page keeps all incoming links. Then check: Changing a row status moves it in both table and board without duplication. Add a focused regression for the failure case under test/ using a temporary database or folder and fake external services; also perform the visible workflow in a browser. Files: `test/test_structured_rows_and_links.py` ```sh python -m unittest discover -s test ``` ### Done when - [ ] A renamed page keeps all incoming links. - [ ] Changing a row status moves it in both table and board without duplication. ### Watch out - Do not build a formula language, embedded scripts or arbitrary third-party widgets in v1. ## Phase 4 · Revision and export Revision and export for Notion: Save immutable page snapshots and restore them as a new revision with a visible diff. ### Steps 1. Save immutable page snapshots and restore them as a new revision with a visible diff. Save immutable page snapshots and restore them as a new revision with a visible diff. Files: `features/revision_and_export.py`, `templates/revision_and_export.html` 2. Export Markdown for readable content plus JSON for typed rows, block ids and tree relationships. Export Markdown for readable content plus JSON for typed rows, block ids and tree relationships. Files: `features/revision_and_export.py` 3. Exercise the acceptance fixture Use A project page containing a heading, checklist, child note and two database rows. Check: Restoring a previous page version creates a new history entry. Then check: Export/import preserves the nested page and database status values. Add a focused regression for the failure case under test/ using a temporary database or folder and fake external services; also perform the visible workflow in a browser. Files: `test/test_revision_and_export.py` ```sh python -m unittest discover -s test ``` ### Done when - [ ] Restoring a previous page version creates a new history entry. - [ ] Export/import preserves the nested page and database status values. ### Watch out - Markdown alone cannot losslessly encode a structured block database. ## Phase 5 · Portable delivery and clean-start proof Finish the Notion replacement with a documented first-run path and a recoverable export. ### Steps 1. Write the user-facing runbook Document prerequisites, every configuration variable, data locations and the three domain workflows: Page tree and blocks; Structured rows and links; Revision and export. Include the exclusions, actual costs and source check date 2026-09-05. Commands shown earlier that reference project files are files the builder must implement before running them. Files: `README.md`, `.env.example` 2. Create and rehearse a recoverable backup Use sqlite3.Connection.backup for the database in DATA_DIR and pause writers while taking the matching attachment snapshot. Keep schema version, hashes and a manifest for notion. Restore into a separate empty directory or isolated deployment, with all outbound actions and schedules disabled. Recreate this proof: A project page containing a heading, checklist, child note and two database rows. Compare ids/counts and open the result before recording the restore date. Never test a restore over the only live copy. Files: `OPERATIONS.md`, `scripts/backup.py` 3. Reproduce the first-run experience Use a new folder and only README instructions to reach the fixture outcome. Install from requirements.txt, initialize storage, run the tests and exercise the UI at 375px and 1280px; use keyboard-only controls and inspect browser errors. Record exactly what passed; do not mark unrun checks complete. Files: `README.md`, `verification.md` ```sh python -m pip install -r requirements.txt python -m unittest discover -s test ``` ### Done when - [ ] A new folder reaches the documented fixture outcome using only README instructions. - [ ] A backup restored in isolation preserves the proof data and can be opened. ### Watch out - Export without an import or restore rehearsal is not verified portability. ## Not in this build - This is a local block notebook with a small typed database view; full Notion feature parity, vendor hosting and support are not included. - mature block editor - cross-device sync - permissions - database views - templates marketplace - integrations - AI workspace context ## After v1, if you want it - Extend revision and export only after the fixture and recovery checks pass. - Before adding another integration, document its credentials, limits, cost and failure behavior with primary-source links. ===== .env.example ===== # Copy to .env and fill in. Never commit .env; this file documents it. # Required. A new private folder this application creates on first run; never serve it as static files. DATA_DIR=./data/notion # Required · secret. Generate with python -c "import secrets; print(secrets.token_hex(32))" and save only in .env. SECRET_KEY=replace-with-a-random-secret # Required. Use indie for loopback-only personal work. Product mode must refuse to start until owner login and the deployment gates are configured. APP_MODE=indie # Required. The origin used for local forms and links; replace with the chosen HTTPS origin in product mode. SITE_URL=http://127.0.0.1:5000
You are building a lean indie version of Notion. Create the following project files first, then implement the application by following them. Keep the files updated as decisions change. Do not collapse this into a single README or prompt. ===== README.md ===== # Notion · indie build Build a local block notebook with a small typed database view. Estimated effort: **multi-day**. Work `BUILD_PLAN.md` top to bottom · every phase ends in a check that has to pass before the next one starts. ## Stack | Part | Choice | Why | | --- | --- | --- | | Runtime | Python 3.12+ and Flask | A small local HTTP application with readable server-side handlers and no JavaScript build pipeline. | | Storage | SQLite through Python sqlite3 | Local ownership with explicit transactions and a portable backup path. | | Interface | Jinja HTML templates, CSS and vanilla JavaScript | Implement the specified screens directly with labelled controls and progressive enhancement. | | Verification | Python unittest and browser acceptance fixtures | Check invariants and the actual user workflow before the next phase. | ## Before you start Have every one of these ready. The plan assumes them from step one. - [ ] **Python 3.12 or newer and a terminal** · Python is free; this local prototype requires no hosting subscription. - Why: The local backend, tests and storage use Python. - Get it: Install Python from python.org. Open a terminal in a new empty project folder. On Windows, use py -3 where this guide says python if python is not on PATH; on macOS/Linux use python3 if needed. Create .venv and activate it before installing packages. - Verify: python --version reports 3.12+ and python -c "import sqlite3" succeeds. - [ ] **A current desktop browser and text editor** · No paid service required for this local step. - Why: You need to view the local interface and edit generated project files. - Get it: Use an installed Chrome, Firefox or Edge browser. Open the empty project folder in your editor; open the terminal there, not in this catalog repository. - Verify: You can create a text file in the project folder and open browser developer tools. - [ ] **Notion acceptance sample** · No paid service required for this local step. - Why: This fixture makes the first end-to-end check reproducible. - Get it: Create synthetic sample data before implementation: A project page containing a heading, checklist, child note and two database rows. Save it under fixtures/ with the expected results in fixtures/README.md; use no real credentials or customer records. - Verify: The fixture files and expected outcomes exist and can be inspected without a vendor account. - [ ] **Confirm the bounded replacement** · No paid service required for this local step. - Why: The full commercial product is larger than this guide. - Get it: The deliverable is a local block notebook with a small typed database view. Read every exclusion below. Indie mode runs locally; any public or shared use requires the product access and deployment gates first. - Verify: You can name the primary workflow and the vendor features this version deliberately leaves out. ## Quick start ```sh python -m venv .venv python -m pip install Flask Flask-WTF python-dotenv waitress tzdata python -m pip freeze > requirements.txt python -m flask --app app run --host 127.0.0.1 ``` Then copy `.env.example` to `.env` and fill in the values it documents. ## Honest limits This build deliberately does not replace: - This is a local block notebook with a small typed database view; full Notion feature parity, vendor hosting and support are not included. - mature block editor - cross-device sync - permissions - database views - templates marketplace - integrations - AI workspace context If one of those is essential to you, that is the reason to keep paying for Notion, and the README should say so rather than pretend. ===== BRIEF.md ===== # Build brief · Notion The one-shot brief this plan expands. `BUILD_PLAN.md` (or `MILESTONES.md`) is the same sequence broken into steps and checks; where the two disagree, the plan wins. Build me a local block notebook with a small typed database view as a bounded replacement for Notion. Build it in phases in the order below. Do not write the whole product in one pass. Finish the current phase, run its Done when checks, fix failures, then continue. Indie mode completes Phases 1-5. Phase 6 is required before shared or public deployment. ### Stack (fixed, do not substitute) - Runtime: Python 3.12+ and Flask. A small local HTTP application with readable server-side handlers and no JavaScript build pipeline. - Storage: SQLite through Python sqlite3. Local ownership with explicit transactions and a portable backup path. - Interface: Jinja HTML templates, CSS and vanilla JavaScript. Implement the specified screens directly with labelled controls and progressive enhancement. - Verification: Python unittest and browser acceptance fixtures. Check invariants and the actual user workflow before the next phase. ### Data model (create this before Phase 1) - pages(id,parent_id,title,revision) - blocks(id,page_id,position,type,content_json) - properties(id,page_id,name,type) - rows(id,page_id,values_json) - links(source_page,target_page) - revisions(id,page_id,snapshot) - Use stable ids and explicit relationships; add auxiliary tables named by the phases before those phases use them. - Acceptance fixture: A project page containing a heading, checklist, child note and two database rows. ### Prerequisites and configuration - Python 3.12 or newer and a terminal: Install Python from python.org. Open a terminal in a new empty project folder. On Windows, use py -3 where this guide says python if python is not on PATH; on macOS/Linux use python3 if needed. Create .venv and activate it before installing packages. Verify: python --version reports 3.12+ and python -c "import sqlite3" succeeds. Cost: Python is free; this local prototype requires no hosting subscription. - A current desktop browser and text editor: Use an installed Chrome, Firefox or Edge browser. Open the empty project folder in your editor; open the terminal there, not in this catalog repository. Verify: You can create a text file in the project folder and open browser developer tools. Cost: No paid service required for this local step. - Notion acceptance sample: Create synthetic sample data before implementation: A project page containing a heading, checklist, child note and two database rows. Save it under fixtures/ with the expected results in fixtures/README.md; use no real credentials or customer records. Verify: The fixture files and expected outcomes exist and can be inspected without a vendor account. Cost: No paid service required for this local step. - Confirm the bounded replacement: The deliverable is a local block notebook with a small typed database view. Read every exclusion below. Indie mode runs locally; any public or shared use requires the product access and deployment gates first. Verify: You can name the primary workflow and the vendor features this version deliberately leaves out. Cost: No paid service required for this local step. - Configuration: DATA_DIR, SECRET_KEY, APP_MODE, SITE_URL. Ship .env.example, replace placeholders and exclude secrets from git. ### Phase 1 · Local foundation and data contract Build: Create the runnable local foundation for a local block notebook with a small typed database view, including the real schema and acceptance fixture. - Run the venv command first, then stop and activate it before running the remaining commands. Use your OS instructions: Windows .venv\Scripts\activate.bat in cmd, or .venv\Scripts\Activate.ps1 in PowerShell; macOS/Linux source .venv/bin/activate. Then install the listed packages. Create app.py exposing app, load .env with python-dotenv, and add a /healthz route. Freeze tested dependency versions to requirements.txt. Create .env manually from .env.example; replace SECRET_KEY before launch. Commands, after creating the named files: `python -m venv .venv`; `python -m pip install Flask Flask-WTF python-dotenv waitress tzdata`; `python -m pip freeze > requirements.txt`; `python -m flask --app app run --host 127.0.0.1`. - For database-backed state create schema.sql and db.py using this model: pages(id,parent_id,title,revision); blocks(id,page_id,position,type,content_json); properties(id,page_id,name,type); rows(id,page_id,values_json); links(source_page,target_page); revisions(id,page_id,snapshot). Add the auxiliary relationships explicitly used in later phases; use stable ids, foreign keys, parameterized values and transactions. For canonical files use atomic replacement and hashes instead. Implement python manage.py init and python manage.py seed to create only synthetic data: A project page containing a heading, checklist, child note and two database rows. Re-running init must not erase data. Commands, after creating the named files: `python manage.py init`; `python manage.py seed`. - Install Flask-WTF CSRF protection for forms and same-origin fetches, validate Host and Origin against SITE_URL, bound inputs and escape output. Deliberately public intake endpoints get bounded validation and rate limits; signed provider webhooks use signature checks instead of browser CSRF tokens. All other admin routes stay local until product authentication exists. When a later phase tests viewer/member permissions, implement the users, hashed passwords, expiring server sessions and role checks in this foundation first; product mode must never use a fabricated identity from request input. Add error, empty, keyboard-focus and retry states now. - Trap: The Flask development server is for local development only. Loopback binding alone does not replace CSRF and origin validation. Done when: The documented start command serves /healthz and the initial screen at http://127.0.0.1:5000. Restarting preserves the seeded records or canonical files; running init again deletes nothing. A cross-origin state-changing request to an admin route is refused. Do not build yet: Do not start page tree and blocks until these checks pass. ### Phase 2 · Page tree and blocks Build: Page tree and blocks for Notion: Implement paragraph, heading, checklist and code blocks with stable ids and explicit up/down controls. - Implement paragraph, heading, checklist and code blocks with stable ids and explicit up/down controls. - Add page nesting and moving with cycle checks; save edits against the page revision. - Use A project page containing a heading, checklist, child note and two database rows. Check: Moving a page beneath its own descendant is refused. Then check: Reordering a checklist preserves its checked state and id after reload. Add a focused regression for the failure case under test/ using a temporary database or folder and fake external services; also perform the visible workflow in a browser. Commands, after creating the named files: `python -m unittest discover -s test`. - Trap: Do not use array position as persistent block identity. Done when: Moving a page beneath its own descendant is refused. Reordering a checklist preserves its checked state and id after reload. Do not build yet: Do not start structured rows and links until these checks pass. ### Phase 3 · Structured rows and links Build: Structured rows and links for Notion: Add a database block supporting text, status and date columns with table and board views. - Add a database block supporting text, status and date columns with table and board views. - Implement page links and backlinks by id; show missing targets and search titles plus plain block text. - Use A project page containing a heading, checklist, child note and two database rows. Check: A renamed page keeps all incoming links. Then check: Changing a row status moves it in both table and board without duplication. Add a focused regression for the failure case under test/ using a temporary database or folder and fake external services; also perform the visible workflow in a browser. Commands, after creating the named files: `python -m unittest discover -s test`. - Trap: Do not build a formula language, embedded scripts or arbitrary third-party widgets in v1. Done when: A renamed page keeps all incoming links. Changing a row status moves it in both table and board without duplication. Do not build yet: Do not start revision and export until these checks pass. ### Phase 4 · Revision and export Build: Revision and export for Notion: Save immutable page snapshots and restore them as a new revision with a visible diff. - Save immutable page snapshots and restore them as a new revision with a visible diff. - Export Markdown for readable content plus JSON for typed rows, block ids and tree relationships. - Use A project page containing a heading, checklist, child note and two database rows. Check: Restoring a previous page version creates a new history entry. Then check: Export/import preserves the nested page and database status values. Add a focused regression for the failure case under test/ using a temporary database or folder and fake external services; also perform the visible workflow in a browser. Commands, after creating the named files: `python -m unittest discover -s test`. - Trap: Markdown alone cannot losslessly encode a structured block database. Done when: Restoring a previous page version creates a new history entry. Export/import preserves the nested page and database status values. Do not build yet: Do not start portable delivery and clean-start proof until these checks pass. ### Phase 5 · Portable delivery and clean-start proof Build: Finish the Notion replacement with a documented first-run path and a recoverable export. - Document prerequisites, every configuration variable, data locations and the three domain workflows: Page tree and blocks; Structured rows and links; Revision and export. Include the exclusions, actual costs and source check date 2026-09-05. Commands shown earlier that reference project files are files the builder must implement before running them. - Use sqlite3.Connection.backup for the database in DATA_DIR and pause writers while taking the matching attachment snapshot. Keep schema version, hashes and a manifest for notion. Restore into a separate empty directory or isolated deployment, with all outbound actions and schedules disabled. Recreate this proof: A project page containing a heading, checklist, child note and two database rows. Compare ids/counts and open the result before recording the restore date. Never test a restore over the only live copy. - Use a new folder and only README instructions to reach the fixture outcome. Install from requirements.txt, initialize storage, run the tests and exercise the UI at 375px and 1280px; use keyboard-only controls and inspect browser errors. Record exactly what passed; do not mark unrun checks complete. Commands, after creating the named files: `python -m pip install -r requirements.txt`; `python -m unittest discover -s test`. - Trap: Export without an import or restore rehearsal is not verified portability. Done when: A new folder reaches the documented fixture outcome using only README instructions. A backup restored in isolation preserves the proof data and can be opened. Do not build yet: Do not start operate and share with access controls until these checks pass. ### Phase 6 · Operate and share with access controls (product-builder only) Build: Product-builder only: make a local block notebook with a small typed database view operable for its stated audience before allowing remote access. - Add owner/member/viewer authorization as appropriate, password hashes through Werkzeug, expiring server-side sessions, CSRF and login rate limits. Add users, sessions and audit schema migrations plus an owner-init command prompting securely for its password. Enforce ownership on every private read/write/download and fail closed when product setup is incomplete. Existing learner or admin identities must use this same boundary. - Serve app:app with Waitress on loopback behind Caddy HTTPS. Configure trusted proxy headers narrowly, Secure/HttpOnly/SameSite cookies, upload limits, request ids and structured logs without private content. Run background jobs as a separate supervised process when the domain workflow requires them. Commands, after creating the named files: `waitress-serve --listen=127.0.0.1:5000 app:app`. - Add a scheduled encrypted off-host backup using this procedure: Use sqlite3.Connection.backup for the database in DATA_DIR and pause writers while taking the matching attachment snapshot. Keep schema version, hashes and a manifest for notion. Monitor health, disk space, failed jobs and backup age. Stop the service to test an alert; rehearse recovery with outbound effects disabled and record recovery time. Rotate any exposed credentials and require reconciliation before resuming queues. - Trap: Product mode is additional engineering, not a switch that makes a local prototype production-ready. Done when: An unauthenticated visitor cannot read private records, download private files or mutate the admin surface. A viewer cannot mutate data by making a direct request, and guessed ids cannot cross ownership boundaries. Stopping the service triggers the configured alert and the latest off-host backup restores the fixture in isolation. Do not build yet: Do not add new providers or vendor-scale features until the release gates are recorded. ### Out of scope (and why) - This is a local block notebook with a small typed database view; full Notion feature parity, vendor hosting and support are not included. - mature block editor: retain the paid product if this capability is essential; it is outside this bounded build. - cross-device sync: retain the paid product if this capability is essential; it is outside this bounded build. - permissions: retain the paid product if this capability is essential; it is outside this bounded build. - database views: retain the paid product if this capability is essential; it is outside this bounded build. - templates marketplace: retain the paid product if this capability is essential; it is outside this bounded build. - integrations: retain the paid product if this capability is essential; it is outside this bounded build. - AI workspace context: retain the paid product if this capability is essential; it is outside this bounded build. ### README must contain - Exact install, configure, initialize, start, test and recovery commands for a clean folder. - The schema, fixture, acceptance results, private data locations and export format. - Every prerequisite and secret source, actual running costs and deliberately excluded capabilities. - An honest distinction between tests actually run and checks still awaiting real credentials or deployment. - Dependency documentation reviewed 2026-09-05: https://flask.palletsprojects.com/en/stable/installation/ ; https://docs.python.org/3/library/sqlite3.html ; https://flask-wtf.readthedocs.io/en/1.2.x/csrf/ ; https://docs.pylonsproject.org/projects/waitress/en/stable/usage.html. Recheck before upgrading; freeze the versions actually tested. ===== AGENTS.md ===== # Agent instructions · Notion indie build - Read `README.md` and `BUILD_PLAN.md` before writing code. The stack is fixed: Python 3.12+ and Flask, SQLite through Python sqlite3, Jinja HTML templates, CSS and vanilla JavaScript, Python unittest and browser acceptance fixtures. Do not substitute. - Work one phase at a time, in order. Do not start a phase until every "Done when" item of the previous one passes. - Prefer the fewest moving parts that satisfy the step. No frameworks, services or dependencies the plan does not name. - Secrets live in `.env`, never in source or logs. Keep `.env.example` current when a variable is introduced. - Do not invent cryptography, security guarantees, APIs or compliance claims. - Add a focused test for every destructive, security-sensitive or data-loss path the plan names. - Run the project checks before declaring a phase complete, and record any deliberate shortcut in the README under "Tradeoffs". ## Known traps - The Flask development server is for local development only. Loopback binding alone does not replace CSRF and origin validation. - Do not use array position as persistent block identity. - Do not build a formula language, embedded scripts or arbitrary third-party widgets in v1. - Markdown alone cannot losslessly encode a structured block database. - Export without an import or restore rehearsal is not verified portability. ===== BUILD_PLAN.md ===== # Build plan · Notion Build a local block notebook with a small typed database view. Phases are in dependency order. Each ends in a "Done when" list; treat an unticked item as a blocker, not a note. ## Phase 1 · Local foundation and data contract Create the runnable local foundation for a local block notebook with a small typed database view, including the real schema and acceptance fixture. ### Steps 1. Create and start the local application Run the venv command first, then stop and activate it before running the remaining commands. Use your OS instructions: Windows .venv\Scripts\activate.bat in cmd, or .venv\Scripts\Activate.ps1 in PowerShell; macOS/Linux source .venv/bin/activate. Then install the listed packages. Create app.py exposing app, load .env with python-dotenv, and add a /healthz route. Freeze tested dependency versions to requirements.txt. Create .env manually from .env.example; replace SECRET_KEY before launch. Files: `app.py`, `requirements.txt`, `.env.example`, `.gitignore` ```sh python -m venv .venv python -m pip install Flask Flask-WTF python-dotenv waitress tzdata python -m pip freeze > requirements.txt python -m flask --app app run --host 127.0.0.1 ``` 2. Implement storage and seed the named fixture For database-backed state create schema.sql and db.py using this model: pages(id,parent_id,title,revision); blocks(id,page_id,position,type,content_json); properties(id,page_id,name,type); rows(id,page_id,values_json); links(source_page,target_page); revisions(id,page_id,snapshot). Add the auxiliary relationships explicitly used in later phases; use stable ids, foreign keys, parameterized values and transactions. For canonical files use atomic replacement and hashes instead. Implement python manage.py init and python manage.py seed to create only synthetic data: A project page containing a heading, checklist, child note and two database rows. Re-running init must not erase data. Files: `schema.sql`, `db.py`, `manage.py`, `fixtures/README.md` ```sh python manage.py init python manage.py seed ``` 3. Protect the local request boundary Install Flask-WTF CSRF protection for forms and same-origin fetches, validate Host and Origin against SITE_URL, bound inputs and escape output. Deliberately public intake endpoints get bounded validation and rate limits; signed provider webhooks use signature checks instead of browser CSRF tokens. All other admin routes stay local until product authentication exists. When a later phase tests viewer/member permissions, implement the users, hashed passwords, expiring server sessions and role checks in this foundation first; product mode must never use a fabricated identity from request input. Add error, empty, keyboard-focus and retry states now. Files: `app.py`, `templates/base.html`, `test/test_foundation.py` ### Done when - [ ] The documented start command serves /healthz and the initial screen at http://127.0.0.1:5000. - [ ] Restarting preserves the seeded records or canonical files; running init again deletes nothing. - [ ] A cross-origin state-changing request to an admin route is refused. ### Watch out - The Flask development server is for local development only. Loopback binding alone does not replace CSRF and origin validation. ## Phase 2 · Page tree and blocks Page tree and blocks for Notion: Implement paragraph, heading, checklist and code blocks with stable ids and explicit up/down controls. ### Steps 1. Implement paragraph, heading, checklist and code blocks with stable ids and explicit up/down controls. Implement paragraph, heading, checklist and code blocks with stable ids and explicit up/down controls. Files: `features/page_tree_and_blocks.py`, `templates/page_tree_and_blocks.html` 2. Add page nesting and moving with cycle checks; save edits against the page revision. Add page nesting and moving with cycle checks; save edits against the page revision. Files: `features/page_tree_and_blocks.py` 3. Exercise the acceptance fixture Use A project page containing a heading, checklist, child note and two database rows. Check: Moving a page beneath its own descendant is refused. Then check: Reordering a checklist preserves its checked state and id after reload. Add a focused regression for the failure case under test/ using a temporary database or folder and fake external services; also perform the visible workflow in a browser. Files: `test/test_page_tree_and_blocks.py` ```sh python -m unittest discover -s test ``` ### Done when - [ ] Moving a page beneath its own descendant is refused. - [ ] Reordering a checklist preserves its checked state and id after reload. ### Watch out - Do not use array position as persistent block identity. ## Phase 3 · Structured rows and links Structured rows and links for Notion: Add a database block supporting text, status and date columns with table and board views. ### Steps 1. Add a database block supporting text, status and date columns with table and board views. Add a database block supporting text, status and date columns with table and board views. Files: `features/structured_rows_and_links.py`, `templates/structured_rows_and_links.html` 2. Implement page links and backlinks by id; show missing targets and search titles plus plain block text. Implement page links and backlinks by id; show missing targets and search titles plus plain block text. Files: `features/structured_rows_and_links.py` 3. Exercise the acceptance fixture Use A project page containing a heading, checklist, child note and two database rows. Check: A renamed page keeps all incoming links. Then check: Changing a row status moves it in both table and board without duplication. Add a focused regression for the failure case under test/ using a temporary database or folder and fake external services; also perform the visible workflow in a browser. Files: `test/test_structured_rows_and_links.py` ```sh python -m unittest discover -s test ``` ### Done when - [ ] A renamed page keeps all incoming links. - [ ] Changing a row status moves it in both table and board without duplication. ### Watch out - Do not build a formula language, embedded scripts or arbitrary third-party widgets in v1. ## Phase 4 · Revision and export Revision and export for Notion: Save immutable page snapshots and restore them as a new revision with a visible diff. ### Steps 1. Save immutable page snapshots and restore them as a new revision with a visible diff. Save immutable page snapshots and restore them as a new revision with a visible diff. Files: `features/revision_and_export.py`, `templates/revision_and_export.html` 2. Export Markdown for readable content plus JSON for typed rows, block ids and tree relationships. Export Markdown for readable content plus JSON for typed rows, block ids and tree relationships. Files: `features/revision_and_export.py` 3. Exercise the acceptance fixture Use A project page containing a heading, checklist, child note and two database rows. Check: Restoring a previous page version creates a new history entry. Then check: Export/import preserves the nested page and database status values. Add a focused regression for the failure case under test/ using a temporary database or folder and fake external services; also perform the visible workflow in a browser. Files: `test/test_revision_and_export.py` ```sh python -m unittest discover -s test ``` ### Done when - [ ] Restoring a previous page version creates a new history entry. - [ ] Export/import preserves the nested page and database status values. ### Watch out - Markdown alone cannot losslessly encode a structured block database. ## Phase 5 · Portable delivery and clean-start proof Finish the Notion replacement with a documented first-run path and a recoverable export. ### Steps 1. Write the user-facing runbook Document prerequisites, every configuration variable, data locations and the three domain workflows: Page tree and blocks; Structured rows and links; Revision and export. Include the exclusions, actual costs and source check date 2026-09-05. Commands shown earlier that reference project files are files the builder must implement before running them. Files: `README.md`, `.env.example` 2. Create and rehearse a recoverable backup Use sqlite3.Connection.backup for the database in DATA_DIR and pause writers while taking the matching attachment snapshot. Keep schema version, hashes and a manifest for notion. Restore into a separate empty directory or isolated deployment, with all outbound actions and schedules disabled. Recreate this proof: A project page containing a heading, checklist, child note and two database rows. Compare ids/counts and open the result before recording the restore date. Never test a restore over the only live copy. Files: `OPERATIONS.md`, `scripts/backup.py` 3. Reproduce the first-run experience Use a new folder and only README instructions to reach the fixture outcome. Install from requirements.txt, initialize storage, run the tests and exercise the UI at 375px and 1280px; use keyboard-only controls and inspect browser errors. Record exactly what passed; do not mark unrun checks complete. Files: `README.md`, `verification.md` ```sh python -m pip install -r requirements.txt python -m unittest discover -s test ``` ### Done when - [ ] A new folder reaches the documented fixture outcome using only README instructions. - [ ] A backup restored in isolation preserves the proof data and can be opened. ### Watch out - Export without an import or restore rehearsal is not verified portability. ## Not in this build - This is a local block notebook with a small typed database view; full Notion feature parity, vendor hosting and support are not included. - mature block editor - cross-device sync - permissions - database views - templates marketplace - integrations - AI workspace context ## After v1, if you want it - Extend revision and export only after the fixture and recovery checks pass. - Before adding another integration, document its credentials, limits, cost and failure behavior with primary-source links. ===== .env.example ===== # Copy to .env and fill in. Never commit .env; this file documents it. # Required. A new private folder this application creates on first run; never serve it as static files. DATA_DIR=./data/notion # Required · secret. Generate with python -c "import secrets; print(secrets.token_hex(32))" and save only in .env. SECRET_KEY=replace-with-a-random-secret # Required. Use indie for loopback-only personal work. Product mode must refuse to start until owner login and the deployment gates are configured. APP_MODE=indie # Required. The origin used for local forms and links; replace with the chosen HTTPS origin in product mode. SITE_URL=http://127.0.0.1:5000
You are building a production product version of Notion. Create the following project files first, then implement the application by following them. Keep the files updated as decisions change. Do not collapse this into a single README or prompt. ===== PRODUCT.md ===== # Notion · product brief ## Problem A solo notes-and-database workspace is buildable, but Notion's block editor, permissions, sync, templates, AI, integrations, and collaboration take real product work. ## Product outcome An operated version of a local block notebook with a small typed database view, with authorized access, restore evidence and honest scope limits. ## Target user A builder who needs a maintainable product foundation, not a one-off demo. ## Required capabilities - web app framework - database - auth - rich-text/block editor - optional LLM API - hosting ## Explicit non-goals for v1 - This is a local block notebook with a small typed database view; full Notion feature parity, vendor hosting and support are not included. - mature block editor - cross-device sync - permissions - database views - templates marketplace - integrations - AI workspace context ## Success criteria - Moving a page beneath its own descendant is refused. - A renamed page keeps all incoming links. - Restoring a previous page version creates a new history entry. - A private-data authorization check passes using a second identity. - An off-host restore drill has a date, observed result and recovery time in OPERATIONS.md. - README names the excluded vendor capabilities and actual provider/hosting costs. ===== BRIEF.md ===== # Build brief · Notion The one-shot brief this plan expands. `BUILD_PLAN.md` (or `MILESTONES.md`) is the same sequence broken into steps and checks; where the two disagree, the plan wins. Build me a local block notebook with a small typed database view as a bounded replacement for Notion. Build it in phases in the order below. Do not write the whole product in one pass. Finish the current phase, run its Done when checks, fix failures, then continue. Indie mode completes Phases 1-5. Phase 6 is required before shared or public deployment. ### Stack (fixed, do not substitute) - Runtime: Python 3.12+ and Flask. A small local HTTP application with readable server-side handlers and no JavaScript build pipeline. - Storage: SQLite through Python sqlite3. Local ownership with explicit transactions and a portable backup path. - Interface: Jinja HTML templates, CSS and vanilla JavaScript. Implement the specified screens directly with labelled controls and progressive enhancement. - Verification: Python unittest and browser acceptance fixtures. Check invariants and the actual user workflow before the next phase. ### Data model (create this before Phase 1) - pages(id,parent_id,title,revision) - blocks(id,page_id,position,type,content_json) - properties(id,page_id,name,type) - rows(id,page_id,values_json) - links(source_page,target_page) - revisions(id,page_id,snapshot) - Use stable ids and explicit relationships; add auxiliary tables named by the phases before those phases use them. - Acceptance fixture: A project page containing a heading, checklist, child note and two database rows. ### Prerequisites and configuration - Python 3.12 or newer and a terminal: Install Python from python.org. Open a terminal in a new empty project folder. On Windows, use py -3 where this guide says python if python is not on PATH; on macOS/Linux use python3 if needed. Create .venv and activate it before installing packages. Verify: python --version reports 3.12+ and python -c "import sqlite3" succeeds. Cost: Python is free; this local prototype requires no hosting subscription. - A current desktop browser and text editor: Use an installed Chrome, Firefox or Edge browser. Open the empty project folder in your editor; open the terminal there, not in this catalog repository. Verify: You can create a text file in the project folder and open browser developer tools. Cost: No paid service required for this local step. - Notion acceptance sample: Create synthetic sample data before implementation: A project page containing a heading, checklist, child note and two database rows. Save it under fixtures/ with the expected results in fixtures/README.md; use no real credentials or customer records. Verify: The fixture files and expected outcomes exist and can be inspected without a vendor account. Cost: No paid service required for this local step. - Confirm the bounded replacement: The deliverable is a local block notebook with a small typed database view. Read every exclusion below. Indie mode runs locally; any public or shared use requires the product access and deployment gates first. Verify: You can name the primary workflow and the vendor features this version deliberately leaves out. Cost: No paid service required for this local step. - Configuration: DATA_DIR, SECRET_KEY, APP_MODE, SITE_URL. Ship .env.example, replace placeholders and exclude secrets from git. ### Phase 1 · Local foundation and data contract Build: Create the runnable local foundation for a local block notebook with a small typed database view, including the real schema and acceptance fixture. - Run the venv command first, then stop and activate it before running the remaining commands. Use your OS instructions: Windows .venv\Scripts\activate.bat in cmd, or .venv\Scripts\Activate.ps1 in PowerShell; macOS/Linux source .venv/bin/activate. Then install the listed packages. Create app.py exposing app, load .env with python-dotenv, and add a /healthz route. Freeze tested dependency versions to requirements.txt. Create .env manually from .env.example; replace SECRET_KEY before launch. Commands, after creating the named files: `python -m venv .venv`; `python -m pip install Flask Flask-WTF python-dotenv waitress tzdata`; `python -m pip freeze > requirements.txt`; `python -m flask --app app run --host 127.0.0.1`. - For database-backed state create schema.sql and db.py using this model: pages(id,parent_id,title,revision); blocks(id,page_id,position,type,content_json); properties(id,page_id,name,type); rows(id,page_id,values_json); links(source_page,target_page); revisions(id,page_id,snapshot). Add the auxiliary relationships explicitly used in later phases; use stable ids, foreign keys, parameterized values and transactions. For canonical files use atomic replacement and hashes instead. Implement python manage.py init and python manage.py seed to create only synthetic data: A project page containing a heading, checklist, child note and two database rows. Re-running init must not erase data. Commands, after creating the named files: `python manage.py init`; `python manage.py seed`. - Install Flask-WTF CSRF protection for forms and same-origin fetches, validate Host and Origin against SITE_URL, bound inputs and escape output. Deliberately public intake endpoints get bounded validation and rate limits; signed provider webhooks use signature checks instead of browser CSRF tokens. All other admin routes stay local until product authentication exists. When a later phase tests viewer/member permissions, implement the users, hashed passwords, expiring server sessions and role checks in this foundation first; product mode must never use a fabricated identity from request input. Add error, empty, keyboard-focus and retry states now. - Trap: The Flask development server is for local development only. Loopback binding alone does not replace CSRF and origin validation. Done when: The documented start command serves /healthz and the initial screen at http://127.0.0.1:5000. Restarting preserves the seeded records or canonical files; running init again deletes nothing. A cross-origin state-changing request to an admin route is refused. Do not build yet: Do not start page tree and blocks until these checks pass. ### Phase 2 · Page tree and blocks Build: Page tree and blocks for Notion: Implement paragraph, heading, checklist and code blocks with stable ids and explicit up/down controls. - Implement paragraph, heading, checklist and code blocks with stable ids and explicit up/down controls. - Add page nesting and moving with cycle checks; save edits against the page revision. - Use A project page containing a heading, checklist, child note and two database rows. Check: Moving a page beneath its own descendant is refused. Then check: Reordering a checklist preserves its checked state and id after reload. Add a focused regression for the failure case under test/ using a temporary database or folder and fake external services; also perform the visible workflow in a browser. Commands, after creating the named files: `python -m unittest discover -s test`. - Trap: Do not use array position as persistent block identity. Done when: Moving a page beneath its own descendant is refused. Reordering a checklist preserves its checked state and id after reload. Do not build yet: Do not start structured rows and links until these checks pass. ### Phase 3 · Structured rows and links Build: Structured rows and links for Notion: Add a database block supporting text, status and date columns with table and board views. - Add a database block supporting text, status and date columns with table and board views. - Implement page links and backlinks by id; show missing targets and search titles plus plain block text. - Use A project page containing a heading, checklist, child note and two database rows. Check: A renamed page keeps all incoming links. Then check: Changing a row status moves it in both table and board without duplication. Add a focused regression for the failure case under test/ using a temporary database or folder and fake external services; also perform the visible workflow in a browser. Commands, after creating the named files: `python -m unittest discover -s test`. - Trap: Do not build a formula language, embedded scripts or arbitrary third-party widgets in v1. Done when: A renamed page keeps all incoming links. Changing a row status moves it in both table and board without duplication. Do not build yet: Do not start revision and export until these checks pass. ### Phase 4 · Revision and export Build: Revision and export for Notion: Save immutable page snapshots and restore them as a new revision with a visible diff. - Save immutable page snapshots and restore them as a new revision with a visible diff. - Export Markdown for readable content plus JSON for typed rows, block ids and tree relationships. - Use A project page containing a heading, checklist, child note and two database rows. Check: Restoring a previous page version creates a new history entry. Then check: Export/import preserves the nested page and database status values. Add a focused regression for the failure case under test/ using a temporary database or folder and fake external services; also perform the visible workflow in a browser. Commands, after creating the named files: `python -m unittest discover -s test`. - Trap: Markdown alone cannot losslessly encode a structured block database. Done when: Restoring a previous page version creates a new history entry. Export/import preserves the nested page and database status values. Do not build yet: Do not start portable delivery and clean-start proof until these checks pass. ### Phase 5 · Portable delivery and clean-start proof Build: Finish the Notion replacement with a documented first-run path and a recoverable export. - Document prerequisites, every configuration variable, data locations and the three domain workflows: Page tree and blocks; Structured rows and links; Revision and export. Include the exclusions, actual costs and source check date 2026-09-05. Commands shown earlier that reference project files are files the builder must implement before running them. - Use sqlite3.Connection.backup for the database in DATA_DIR and pause writers while taking the matching attachment snapshot. Keep schema version, hashes and a manifest for notion. Restore into a separate empty directory or isolated deployment, with all outbound actions and schedules disabled. Recreate this proof: A project page containing a heading, checklist, child note and two database rows. Compare ids/counts and open the result before recording the restore date. Never test a restore over the only live copy. - Use a new folder and only README instructions to reach the fixture outcome. Install from requirements.txt, initialize storage, run the tests and exercise the UI at 375px and 1280px; use keyboard-only controls and inspect browser errors. Record exactly what passed; do not mark unrun checks complete. Commands, after creating the named files: `python -m pip install -r requirements.txt`; `python -m unittest discover -s test`. - Trap: Export without an import or restore rehearsal is not verified portability. Done when: A new folder reaches the documented fixture outcome using only README instructions. A backup restored in isolation preserves the proof data and can be opened. Do not build yet: Do not start operate and share with access controls until these checks pass. ### Phase 6 · Operate and share with access controls (product-builder only) Build: Product-builder only: make a local block notebook with a small typed database view operable for its stated audience before allowing remote access. - Add owner/member/viewer authorization as appropriate, password hashes through Werkzeug, expiring server-side sessions, CSRF and login rate limits. Add users, sessions and audit schema migrations plus an owner-init command prompting securely for its password. Enforce ownership on every private read/write/download and fail closed when product setup is incomplete. Existing learner or admin identities must use this same boundary. - Serve app:app with Waitress on loopback behind Caddy HTTPS. Configure trusted proxy headers narrowly, Secure/HttpOnly/SameSite cookies, upload limits, request ids and structured logs without private content. Run background jobs as a separate supervised process when the domain workflow requires them. Commands, after creating the named files: `waitress-serve --listen=127.0.0.1:5000 app:app`. - Add a scheduled encrypted off-host backup using this procedure: Use sqlite3.Connection.backup for the database in DATA_DIR and pause writers while taking the matching attachment snapshot. Keep schema version, hashes and a manifest for notion. Monitor health, disk space, failed jobs and backup age. Stop the service to test an alert; rehearse recovery with outbound effects disabled and record recovery time. Rotate any exposed credentials and require reconciliation before resuming queues. - Trap: Product mode is additional engineering, not a switch that makes a local prototype production-ready. Done when: An unauthenticated visitor cannot read private records, download private files or mutate the admin surface. A viewer cannot mutate data by making a direct request, and guessed ids cannot cross ownership boundaries. Stopping the service triggers the configured alert and the latest off-host backup restores the fixture in isolation. Do not build yet: Do not add new providers or vendor-scale features until the release gates are recorded. ### Out of scope (and why) - This is a local block notebook with a small typed database view; full Notion feature parity, vendor hosting and support are not included. - mature block editor: retain the paid product if this capability is essential; it is outside this bounded build. - cross-device sync: retain the paid product if this capability is essential; it is outside this bounded build. - permissions: retain the paid product if this capability is essential; it is outside this bounded build. - database views: retain the paid product if this capability is essential; it is outside this bounded build. - templates marketplace: retain the paid product if this capability is essential; it is outside this bounded build. - integrations: retain the paid product if this capability is essential; it is outside this bounded build. - AI workspace context: retain the paid product if this capability is essential; it is outside this bounded build. ### README must contain - Exact install, configure, initialize, start, test and recovery commands for a clean folder. - The schema, fixture, acceptance results, private data locations and export format. - Every prerequisite and secret source, actual running costs and deliberately excluded capabilities. - An honest distinction between tests actually run and checks still awaiting real credentials or deployment. - Dependency documentation reviewed 2026-09-05: https://flask.palletsprojects.com/en/stable/installation/ ; https://docs.python.org/3/library/sqlite3.html ; https://flask-wtf.readthedocs.io/en/1.2.x/csrf/ ; https://docs.pylonsproject.org/projects/waitress/en/stable/usage.html. Recheck before upgrading; freeze the versions actually tested. ===== ARCHITECTURE.md ===== # Architecture · Notion ## Stack | Part | Choice | Why | | --- | --- | --- | | Runtime | Python 3.12+ and Flask | A small local HTTP application with readable server-side handlers and no JavaScript build pipeline. | | Storage | SQLite through Python sqlite3 | Local ownership with explicit transactions and a portable backup path. | | Interface | Jinja HTML templates, CSS and vanilla JavaScript | Implement the specified screens directly with labelled controls and progressive enhancement. | | Verification | Python unittest and browser acceptance fixtures | Check invariants and the actual user workflow before the next phase. | ## Modules Each module has one owner concern and a documented way to replace it. | Module | Owns | How to replace it | | --- | --- | --- | | Data and identity | pages(id,parent_id,title,revision); blocks(id,page_id,position,type,content_json); properties(id,page_id,name,type); rows(id,page_id,values_json); links(source_page,target_page); revisions(id,page_id,snapshot) | Keep stable ids and a versioned repository interface; migrate storage behind it with a fixture round-trip. | | Page tree and blocks | Implement paragraph, heading, checklist and code blocks with stable ids and explicit up/down controls. | Keep the acceptance contract: Moving a page beneath its own descendant is refused. Replace only this module after replaying its fixture; preserve ids and existing records. | | Structured rows and links | Add a database block supporting text, status and date columns with table and board views. | Keep the acceptance contract: A renamed page keeps all incoming links. Replace only this module after replaying its fixture; preserve ids and existing records. | | Revision and export | Save immutable page snapshots and restore them as a new revision with a visible diff. | Keep the acceptance contract: Restoring a previous page version creates a new history entry. Replace only this module after replaying its fixture; preserve ids and existing records. | | Operations | Use sqlite3.Connection.backup for the database in DATA_DIR and pause writers while taking the matching attachment snapshot. Keep schema version, hashes and a manifest for notion. | Change host or backup destination only after an isolated restore and authorization check. | ## Configuration Every runtime setting is an environment variable documented in `.env.example`, validated at startup, with a safe local default wherever one exists. - `DATA_DIR` · required · A new private folder this application creates on first run; never serve it as static files. - `SECRET_KEY` · required, secret · Generate with python -c "import secrets; print(secrets.token_hex(32))" and save only in .env. - `APP_MODE` · required · Use indie for loopback-only personal work. Product mode must refuse to start until owner login and the deployment gates are configured. - `SITE_URL` · required · The origin used for local forms and links; replace with the chosen HTTPS origin in product mode. ## Production baseline - Security: least privilege, input validation at every boundary, secret redaction in logs, rate limits on abuse-prone paths, no invented security primitives. - Data: explicit schema and migrations, transactional writes where integrity matters, backup and restore procedures that have been exercised. - Integrations: adapters around third-party providers, idempotent webhook or job processing, bounded retries, timeouts. - Observability: structured logs with request or operation ids, an error-tracking hook, and health and readiness checks where a server exists. - Quality: unit tests for domain rules, integration tests at module boundaries, one end-to-end test of the critical path. ## Decision records For each dependency in the stack table, keep a short note: why it was chosen, its failure mode, and how it is replaced. Do not add infrastructure until a requirement in `PRODUCT.md` justifies it. ===== AGENTS.md ===== # Agent instructions · Notion product build - Read `PRODUCT.md` and `ARCHITECTURE.md` before changing code. The stack is fixed: Python 3.12+ and Flask, SQLite through Python sqlite3, Jinja HTML templates, CSS and vanilla JavaScript, Python unittest and browser acceptance fixtures. - Implement milestone by milestone from `MILESTONES.md`; keep each change reviewable and leave the application runnable at every commit. - Treat authentication, payments, encryption, imports, webhooks and destructive actions as high-risk boundaries when present. - Never invent cryptography or silently weaken a requirement to make a check pass. - Put every external service behind an interface with a deterministic fake for tests. - Add migrations and rollback or recovery notes for every persistent data change. - Log useful operational context without credentials, tokens, passwords or personal data. - Update documentation and run every check before completing a milestone. ## Known traps - The Flask development server is for local development only. Loopback binding alone does not replace CSRF and origin validation. - Do not use array position as persistent block identity. - Do not build a formula language, embedded scripts or arbitrary third-party widgets in v1. - Markdown alone cannot losslessly encode a structured block database. - Export without an import or restore rehearsal is not verified portability. - Product mode is additional engineering, not a switch that makes a local prototype production-ready. ===== MILESTONES.md ===== # Delivery milestones · Notion Estimated effort: **multi-day** for the indie phases; the production-only milestones add the trust and operability layer. ## M1 · Local foundation and data contract Create the runnable local foundation for a local block notebook with a small typed database view, including the real schema and acceptance fixture. ### Steps 1. Create and start the local application Run the venv command first, then stop and activate it before running the remaining commands. Use your OS instructions: Windows .venv\Scripts\activate.bat in cmd, or .venv\Scripts\Activate.ps1 in PowerShell; macOS/Linux source .venv/bin/activate. Then install the listed packages. Create app.py exposing app, load .env with python-dotenv, and add a /healthz route. Freeze tested dependency versions to requirements.txt. Create .env manually from .env.example; replace SECRET_KEY before launch. Files: `app.py`, `requirements.txt`, `.env.example`, `.gitignore` ```sh python -m venv .venv python -m pip install Flask Flask-WTF python-dotenv waitress tzdata python -m pip freeze > requirements.txt python -m flask --app app run --host 127.0.0.1 ``` 2. Implement storage and seed the named fixture For database-backed state create schema.sql and db.py using this model: pages(id,parent_id,title,revision); blocks(id,page_id,position,type,content_json); properties(id,page_id,name,type); rows(id,page_id,values_json); links(source_page,target_page); revisions(id,page_id,snapshot). Add the auxiliary relationships explicitly used in later phases; use stable ids, foreign keys, parameterized values and transactions. For canonical files use atomic replacement and hashes instead. Implement python manage.py init and python manage.py seed to create only synthetic data: A project page containing a heading, checklist, child note and two database rows. Re-running init must not erase data. Files: `schema.sql`, `db.py`, `manage.py`, `fixtures/README.md` ```sh python manage.py init python manage.py seed ``` 3. Protect the local request boundary Install Flask-WTF CSRF protection for forms and same-origin fetches, validate Host and Origin against SITE_URL, bound inputs and escape output. Deliberately public intake endpoints get bounded validation and rate limits; signed provider webhooks use signature checks instead of browser CSRF tokens. All other admin routes stay local until product authentication exists. When a later phase tests viewer/member permissions, implement the users, hashed passwords, expiring server sessions and role checks in this foundation first; product mode must never use a fabricated identity from request input. Add error, empty, keyboard-focus and retry states now. Files: `app.py`, `templates/base.html`, `test/test_foundation.py` ### Done when - [ ] The documented start command serves /healthz and the initial screen at http://127.0.0.1:5000. - [ ] Restarting preserves the seeded records or canonical files; running init again deletes nothing. - [ ] A cross-origin state-changing request to an admin route is refused. ### Watch out - The Flask development server is for local development only. Loopback binding alone does not replace CSRF and origin validation. ## M2 · Page tree and blocks Page tree and blocks for Notion: Implement paragraph, heading, checklist and code blocks with stable ids and explicit up/down controls. ### Steps 1. Implement paragraph, heading, checklist and code blocks with stable ids and explicit up/down controls. Implement paragraph, heading, checklist and code blocks with stable ids and explicit up/down controls. Files: `features/page_tree_and_blocks.py`, `templates/page_tree_and_blocks.html` 2. Add page nesting and moving with cycle checks; save edits against the page revision. Add page nesting and moving with cycle checks; save edits against the page revision. Files: `features/page_tree_and_blocks.py` 3. Exercise the acceptance fixture Use A project page containing a heading, checklist, child note and two database rows. Check: Moving a page beneath its own descendant is refused. Then check: Reordering a checklist preserves its checked state and id after reload. Add a focused regression for the failure case under test/ using a temporary database or folder and fake external services; also perform the visible workflow in a browser. Files: `test/test_page_tree_and_blocks.py` ```sh python -m unittest discover -s test ``` ### Done when - [ ] Moving a page beneath its own descendant is refused. - [ ] Reordering a checklist preserves its checked state and id after reload. ### Watch out - Do not use array position as persistent block identity. ## M3 · Structured rows and links Structured rows and links for Notion: Add a database block supporting text, status and date columns with table and board views. ### Steps 1. Add a database block supporting text, status and date columns with table and board views. Add a database block supporting text, status and date columns with table and board views. Files: `features/structured_rows_and_links.py`, `templates/structured_rows_and_links.html` 2. Implement page links and backlinks by id; show missing targets and search titles plus plain block text. Implement page links and backlinks by id; show missing targets and search titles plus plain block text. Files: `features/structured_rows_and_links.py` 3. Exercise the acceptance fixture Use A project page containing a heading, checklist, child note and two database rows. Check: A renamed page keeps all incoming links. Then check: Changing a row status moves it in both table and board without duplication. Add a focused regression for the failure case under test/ using a temporary database or folder and fake external services; also perform the visible workflow in a browser. Files: `test/test_structured_rows_and_links.py` ```sh python -m unittest discover -s test ``` ### Done when - [ ] A renamed page keeps all incoming links. - [ ] Changing a row status moves it in both table and board without duplication. ### Watch out - Do not build a formula language, embedded scripts or arbitrary third-party widgets in v1. ## M4 · Revision and export Revision and export for Notion: Save immutable page snapshots and restore them as a new revision with a visible diff. ### Steps 1. Save immutable page snapshots and restore them as a new revision with a visible diff. Save immutable page snapshots and restore them as a new revision with a visible diff. Files: `features/revision_and_export.py`, `templates/revision_and_export.html` 2. Export Markdown for readable content plus JSON for typed rows, block ids and tree relationships. Export Markdown for readable content plus JSON for typed rows, block ids and tree relationships. Files: `features/revision_and_export.py` 3. Exercise the acceptance fixture Use A project page containing a heading, checklist, child note and two database rows. Check: Restoring a previous page version creates a new history entry. Then check: Export/import preserves the nested page and database status values. Add a focused regression for the failure case under test/ using a temporary database or folder and fake external services; also perform the visible workflow in a browser. Files: `test/test_revision_and_export.py` ```sh python -m unittest discover -s test ``` ### Done when - [ ] Restoring a previous page version creates a new history entry. - [ ] Export/import preserves the nested page and database status values. ### Watch out - Markdown alone cannot losslessly encode a structured block database. ## M5 · Portable delivery and clean-start proof Finish the Notion replacement with a documented first-run path and a recoverable export. ### Steps 1. Write the user-facing runbook Document prerequisites, every configuration variable, data locations and the three domain workflows: Page tree and blocks; Structured rows and links; Revision and export. Include the exclusions, actual costs and source check date 2026-09-05. Commands shown earlier that reference project files are files the builder must implement before running them. Files: `README.md`, `.env.example` 2. Create and rehearse a recoverable backup Use sqlite3.Connection.backup for the database in DATA_DIR and pause writers while taking the matching attachment snapshot. Keep schema version, hashes and a manifest for notion. Restore into a separate empty directory or isolated deployment, with all outbound actions and schedules disabled. Recreate this proof: A project page containing a heading, checklist, child note and two database rows. Compare ids/counts and open the result before recording the restore date. Never test a restore over the only live copy. Files: `OPERATIONS.md`, `scripts/backup.py` 3. Reproduce the first-run experience Use a new folder and only README instructions to reach the fixture outcome. Install from requirements.txt, initialize storage, run the tests and exercise the UI at 375px and 1280px; use keyboard-only controls and inspect browser errors. Record exactly what passed; do not mark unrun checks complete. Files: `README.md`, `verification.md` ```sh python -m pip install -r requirements.txt python -m unittest discover -s test ``` ### Done when - [ ] A new folder reaches the documented fixture outcome using only README instructions. - [ ] A backup restored in isolation preserves the proof data and can be opened. ### Watch out - Export without an import or restore rehearsal is not verified portability. ## M6 · Operate and share with access controls (production only) Product-builder only: make a local block notebook with a small typed database view operable for its stated audience before allowing remote access. ### Steps 1. Establish owner access before exposure Add owner/member/viewer authorization as appropriate, password hashes through Werkzeug, expiring server-side sessions, CSRF and login rate limits. Add users, sessions and audit schema migrations plus an owner-init command prompting securely for its password. Enforce ownership on every private read/write/download and fail closed when product setup is incomplete. Existing learner or admin identities must use this same boundary. Files: `ARCHITECTURE.md`, `OPERATIONS.md` 2. Deploy a monitored service Serve app:app with Waitress on loopback behind Caddy HTTPS. Configure trusted proxy headers narrowly, Secure/HttpOnly/SameSite cookies, upload limits, request ids and structured logs without private content. Run background jobs as a separate supervised process when the domain workflow requires them. Files: `Caddyfile`, `OPERATIONS.md` ```sh waitress-serve --listen=127.0.0.1:5000 app:app ``` 3. Rehearse loss and recovery Add a scheduled encrypted off-host backup using this procedure: Use sqlite3.Connection.backup for the database in DATA_DIR and pause writers while taking the matching attachment snapshot. Keep schema version, hashes and a manifest for notion. Monitor health, disk space, failed jobs and backup age. Stop the service to test an alert; rehearse recovery with outbound effects disabled and record recovery time. Rotate any exposed credentials and require reconciliation before resuming queues. Files: `OPERATIONS.md`, `release-checklist.md` ### Done when - [ ] An unauthenticated visitor cannot read private records, download private files or mutate the admin surface. - [ ] A viewer cannot mutate data by making a direct request, and guessed ids cannot cross ownership boundaries. - [ ] Stopping the service triggers the configured alert and the latest off-host backup restores the fixture in isolation. ### Watch out - Product mode is additional engineering, not a switch that makes a local prototype production-ready. ===== OPERATIONS.md ===== # Operations · Notion ## Backup Use sqlite3.Connection.backup for the database in DATA_DIR and pause writers while taking the matching attachment snapshot. Keep schema version, hashes and a manifest for notion. ## Restore Restore into a separate empty directory or isolated deployment, with all outbound actions and schedules disabled. Recreate this proof: A project page containing a heading, checklist, child note and two database rows. Compare ids/counts and open the result before recording the restore date. Never test a restore over the only live copy. Do a restore drill before the first real user, and write the date here when it passes. ## Monitoring Check HTTP availability, free disk, backup age and domain failures for Page tree and blocks, Structured rows and links, Revision and export. Alert without logging private payloads. ## Incident checklist Pause outbound jobs and public intake as appropriate, preserve redacted diagnostics, restore an isolated verified backup, rotate affected credentials and reconcile uncertain effects before reopening. 1. Contain the issue without destroying evidence or user data. 2. Record the timeline and affected scope. 3. Rotate exposed secrets and revoke compromised sessions or credentials. 4. Restore from a verified backup when needed. 5. Document the root cause, the remediation and the regression test. ## Release gate - [ ] Moving a page beneath its own descendant is refused. - [ ] A renamed page keeps all incoming links. - [ ] Restoring a previous page version creates a new history entry. - [ ] A private-data authorization check passes using a second identity. - [ ] An off-host restore drill has a date, observed result and recovery time in OPERATIONS.md. - [ ] README names the excluded vendor capabilities and actual provider/hosting costs. ## Launch constraint Do not market omitted Notion capabilities as implemented. The non-goals in `PRODUCT.md` remain user-visible limitations until they are deliberately delivered. ===== .env.example ===== # Copy to .env and fill in. Never commit .env; this file documents it. # Required. A new private folder this application creates on first run; never serve it as static files. DATA_DIR=./data/notion # Required · secret. Generate with python -c "import secrets; print(secrets.token_hex(32))" and save only in .env. SECRET_KEY=replace-with-a-random-secret # Required. Use indie for loopback-only personal work. Product mode must refuse to start until owner login and the deployment gates are configured. APP_MODE=indie # Required. The origin used for local forms and links; replace with the chosen HTTPS origin in product mode. SITE_URL=http://127.0.0.1:5000
README.md
# Notion · indie build Build a local block notebook with a small typed database view. Estimated effort: **multi-day**. Work `BUILD_PLAN.md` top to bottom · every phase ends in a check that has to pass before the next one starts. ## Stack | Part | Choice | Why | | --- | --- | --- | | Runtime | Python 3.12+ and Flask | A small local HTTP application with readable server-side handlers and no JavaScript build pipeline. | | Storage | SQLite through Python sqlite3 | Local ownership with explicit transactions and a portable backup path. | | Interface | Jinja HTML templates, CSS and vanilla JavaScript | Implement the specified screens directly with labelled controls and progressive enhancement. | | Verification | Python unittest and browser acceptance fixtures | Check invariants and the actual user workflow before the next phase. | ## Before you start Have every one of these ready. The plan assumes them from step one. - [ ] **Python 3.12 or newer and a terminal** · Python is free; this local prototype requires no hosting subscription. - Why: The local backend, tests and storage use Python. - Get it: Install Python from python.org. Open a terminal in a new empty project folder. On Windows, use py -3 where this guide says python if python is not on PATH; on macOS/Linux use python3 if needed. Create .venv and activate it before installing packages. - Verify: python --version reports 3.12+ and python -c "import sqlite3" succeeds. - [ ] **A current desktop browser and text editor** · No paid service required for this local step. - Why: You need to view the local interface and edit generated project files. - Get it: Use an installed Chrome, Firefox or Edge browser. Open the empty project folder in your editor; open the terminal there, not in this catalog repository. - Verify: You can create a text file in the project folder and open browser developer tools. - [ ] **Notion acceptance sample** · No paid service required for this local step. - Why: This fixture makes the first end-to-end check reproducible. - Get it: Create synthetic sample data before implementation: A project page containing a heading, checklist, child note and two database rows. Save it under fixtures/ with the expected results in fixtures/README.md; use no real credentials or customer records. - Verify: The fixture files and expected outcomes exist and can be inspected without a vendor account. - [ ] **Confirm the bounded replacement** · No paid service required for this local step. - Why: The full commercial product is larger than this guide. - Get it: The deliverable is a local block notebook with a small typed database view. Read every exclusion below. Indie mode runs locally; any public or shared use requires the product access and deployment gates first. - Verify: You can name the primary workflow and the vendor features this version deliberately leaves out. ## Quick start ```sh python -m venv .venv python -m pip install Flask Flask-WTF python-dotenv waitress tzdata python -m pip freeze > requirements.txt python -m flask --app app run --host 127.0.0.1 ``` Then copy `.env.example` to `.env` and fill in the values it documents. ## Honest limits This build deliberately does not replace: - This is a local block notebook with a small typed database view; full Notion feature parity, vendor hosting and support are not included. - mature block editor - cross-device sync - permissions - database views - templates marketplace - integrations - AI workspace context If one of those is essential to you, that is the reason to keep paying for Notion, and the README should say so rather than pretend.
BRIEF.md
# Build brief · Notion The one-shot brief this plan expands. `BUILD_PLAN.md` (or `MILESTONES.md`) is the same sequence broken into steps and checks; where the two disagree, the plan wins. Build me a local block notebook with a small typed database view as a bounded replacement for Notion. Build it in phases in the order below. Do not write the whole product in one pass. Finish the current phase, run its Done when checks, fix failures, then continue. Indie mode completes Phases 1-5. Phase 6 is required before shared or public deployment. ### Stack (fixed, do not substitute) - Runtime: Python 3.12+ and Flask. A small local HTTP application with readable server-side handlers and no JavaScript build pipeline. - Storage: SQLite through Python sqlite3. Local ownership with explicit transactions and a portable backup path. - Interface: Jinja HTML templates, CSS and vanilla JavaScript. Implement the specified screens directly with labelled controls and progressive enhancement. - Verification: Python unittest and browser acceptance fixtures. Check invariants and the actual user workflow before the next phase. ### Data model (create this before Phase 1) - pages(id,parent_id,title,revision) - blocks(id,page_id,position,type,content_json) - properties(id,page_id,name,type) - rows(id,page_id,values_json) - links(source_page,target_page) - revisions(id,page_id,snapshot) - Use stable ids and explicit relationships; add auxiliary tables named by the phases before those phases use them. - Acceptance fixture: A project page containing a heading, checklist, child note and two database rows. ### Prerequisites and configuration - Python 3.12 or newer and a terminal: Install Python from python.org. Open a terminal in a new empty project folder. On Windows, use py -3 where this guide says python if python is not on PATH; on macOS/Linux use python3 if needed. Create .venv and activate it before installing packages. Verify: python --version reports 3.12+ and python -c "import sqlite3" succeeds. Cost: Python is free; this local prototype requires no hosting subscription. - A current desktop browser and text editor: Use an installed Chrome, Firefox or Edge browser. Open the empty project folder in your editor; open the terminal there, not in this catalog repository. Verify: You can create a text file in the project folder and open browser developer tools. Cost: No paid service required for this local step. - Notion acceptance sample: Create synthetic sample data before implementation: A project page containing a heading, checklist, child note and two database rows. Save it under fixtures/ with the expected results in fixtures/README.md; use no real credentials or customer records. Verify: The fixture files and expected outcomes exist and can be inspected without a vendor account. Cost: No paid service required for this local step. - Confirm the bounded replacement: The deliverable is a local block notebook with a small typed database view. Read every exclusion below. Indie mode runs locally; any public or shared use requires the product access and deployment gates first. Verify: You can name the primary workflow and the vendor features this version deliberately leaves out. Cost: No paid service required for this local step. - Configuration: DATA_DIR, SECRET_KEY, APP_MODE, SITE_URL. Ship .env.example, replace placeholders and exclude secrets from git. ### Phase 1 · Local foundation and data contract Build: Create the runnable local foundation for a local block notebook with a small typed database view, including the real schema and acceptance fixture. - Run the venv command first, then stop and activate it before running the remaining commands. Use your OS instructions: Windows .venv\Scripts\activate.bat in cmd, or .venv\Scripts\Activate.ps1 in PowerShell; macOS/Linux source .venv/bin/activate. Then install the listed packages. Create app.py exposing app, load .env with python-dotenv, and add a /healthz route. Freeze tested dependency versions to requirements.txt. Create .env manually from .env.example; replace SECRET_KEY before launch. Commands, after creating the named files: `python -m venv .venv`; `python -m pip install Flask Flask-WTF python-dotenv waitress tzdata`; `python -m pip freeze > requirements.txt`; `python -m flask --app app run --host 127.0.0.1`. - For database-backed state create schema.sql and db.py using this model: pages(id,parent_id,title,revision); blocks(id,page_id,position,type,content_json); properties(id,page_id,name,type); rows(id,page_id,values_json); links(source_page,target_page); revisions(id,page_id,snapshot). Add the auxiliary relationships explicitly used in later phases; use stable ids, foreign keys, parameterized values and transactions. For canonical files use atomic replacement and hashes instead. Implement python manage.py init and python manage.py seed to create only synthetic data: A project page containing a heading, checklist, child note and two database rows. Re-running init must not erase data. Commands, after creating the named files: `python manage.py init`; `python manage.py seed`. - Install Flask-WTF CSRF protection for forms and same-origin fetches, validate Host and Origin against SITE_URL, bound inputs and escape output. Deliberately public intake endpoints get bounded validation and rate limits; signed provider webhooks use signature checks instead of browser CSRF tokens. All other admin routes stay local until product authentication exists. When a later phase tests viewer/member permissions, implement the users, hashed passwords, expiring server sessions and role checks in this foundation first; product mode must never use a fabricated identity from request input. Add error, empty, keyboard-focus and retry states now. - Trap: The Flask development server is for local development only. Loopback binding alone does not replace CSRF and origin validation. Done when: The documented start command serves /healthz and the initial screen at http://127.0.0.1:5000. Restarting preserves the seeded records or canonical files; running init again deletes nothing. A cross-origin state-changing request to an admin route is refused. Do not build yet: Do not start page tree and blocks until these checks pass. ### Phase 2 · Page tree and blocks Build: Page tree and blocks for Notion: Implement paragraph, heading, checklist and code blocks with stable ids and explicit up/down controls. - Implement paragraph, heading, checklist and code blocks with stable ids and explicit up/down controls. - Add page nesting and moving with cycle checks; save edits against the page revision. - Use A project page containing a heading, checklist, child note and two database rows. Check: Moving a page beneath its own descendant is refused. Then check: Reordering a checklist preserves its checked state and id after reload. Add a focused regression for the failure case under test/ using a temporary database or folder and fake external services; also perform the visible workflow in a browser. Commands, after creating the named files: `python -m unittest discover -s test`. - Trap: Do not use array position as persistent block identity. Done when: Moving a page beneath its own descendant is refused. Reordering a checklist preserves its checked state and id after reload. Do not build yet: Do not start structured rows and links until these checks pass. ### Phase 3 · Structured rows and links Build: Structured rows and links for Notion: Add a database block supporting text, status and date columns with table and board views. - Add a database block supporting text, status and date columns with table and board views. - Implement page links and backlinks by id; show missing targets and search titles plus plain block text. - Use A project page containing a heading, checklist, child note and two database rows. Check: A renamed page keeps all incoming links. Then check: Changing a row status moves it in both table and board without duplication. Add a focused regression for the failure case under test/ using a temporary database or folder and fake external services; also perform the visible workflow in a browser. Commands, after creating the named files: `python -m unittest discover -s test`. - Trap: Do not build a formula language, embedded scripts or arbitrary third-party widgets in v1. Done when: A renamed page keeps all incoming links. Changing a row status moves it in both table and board without duplication. Do not build yet: Do not start revision and export until these checks pass. ### Phase 4 · Revision and export Build: Revision and export for Notion: Save immutable page snapshots and restore them as a new revision with a visible diff. - Save immutable page snapshots and restore them as a new revision with a visible diff. - Export Markdown for readable content plus JSON for typed rows, block ids and tree relationships. - Use A project page containing a heading, checklist, child note and two database rows. Check: Restoring a previous page version creates a new history entry. Then check: Export/import preserves the nested page and database status values. Add a focused regression for the failure case under test/ using a temporary database or folder and fake external services; also perform the visible workflow in a browser. Commands, after creating the named files: `python -m unittest discover -s test`. - Trap: Markdown alone cannot losslessly encode a structured block database. Done when: Restoring a previous page version creates a new history entry. Export/import preserves the nested page and database status values. Do not build yet: Do not start portable delivery and clean-start proof until these checks pass. ### Phase 5 · Portable delivery and clean-start proof Build: Finish the Notion replacement with a documented first-run path and a recoverable export. - Document prerequisites, every configuration variable, data locations and the three domain workflows: Page tree and blocks; Structured rows and links; Revision and export. Include the exclusions, actual costs and source check date 2026-09-05. Commands shown earlier that reference project files are files the builder must implement before running them. - Use sqlite3.Connection.backup for the database in DATA_DIR and pause writers while taking the matching attachment snapshot. Keep schema version, hashes and a manifest for notion. Restore into a separate empty directory or isolated deployment, with all outbound actions and schedules disabled. Recreate this proof: A project page containing a heading, checklist, child note and two database rows. Compare ids/counts and open the result before recording the restore date. Never test a restore over the only live copy. - Use a new folder and only README instructions to reach the fixture outcome. Install from requirements.txt, initialize storage, run the tests and exercise the UI at 375px and 1280px; use keyboard-only controls and inspect browser errors. Record exactly what passed; do not mark unrun checks complete. Commands, after creating the named files: `python -m pip install -r requirements.txt`; `python -m unittest discover -s test`. - Trap: Export without an import or restore rehearsal is not verified portability. Done when: A new folder reaches the documented fixture outcome using only README instructions. A backup restored in isolation preserves the proof data and can be opened. Do not build yet: Do not start operate and share with access controls until these checks pass. ### Phase 6 · Operate and share with access controls (product-builder only) Build: Product-builder only: make a local block notebook with a small typed database view operable for its stated audience before allowing remote access. - Add owner/member/viewer authorization as appropriate, password hashes through Werkzeug, expiring server-side sessions, CSRF and login rate limits. Add users, sessions and audit schema migrations plus an owner-init command prompting securely for its password. Enforce ownership on every private read/write/download and fail closed when product setup is incomplete. Existing learner or admin identities must use this same boundary. - Serve app:app with Waitress on loopback behind Caddy HTTPS. Configure trusted proxy headers narrowly, Secure/HttpOnly/SameSite cookies, upload limits, request ids and structured logs without private content. Run background jobs as a separate supervised process when the domain workflow requires them. Commands, after creating the named files: `waitress-serve --listen=127.0.0.1:5000 app:app`. - Add a scheduled encrypted off-host backup using this procedure: Use sqlite3.Connection.backup for the database in DATA_DIR and pause writers while taking the matching attachment snapshot. Keep schema version, hashes and a manifest for notion. Monitor health, disk space, failed jobs and backup age. Stop the service to test an alert; rehearse recovery with outbound effects disabled and record recovery time. Rotate any exposed credentials and require reconciliation before resuming queues. - Trap: Product mode is additional engineering, not a switch that makes a local prototype production-ready. Done when: An unauthenticated visitor cannot read private records, download private files or mutate the admin surface. A viewer cannot mutate data by making a direct request, and guessed ids cannot cross ownership boundaries. Stopping the service triggers the configured alert and the latest off-host backup restores the fixture in isolation. Do not build yet: Do not add new providers or vendor-scale features until the release gates are recorded. ### Out of scope (and why) - This is a local block notebook with a small typed database view; full Notion feature parity, vendor hosting and support are not included. - mature block editor: retain the paid product if this capability is essential; it is outside this bounded build. - cross-device sync: retain the paid product if this capability is essential; it is outside this bounded build. - permissions: retain the paid product if this capability is essential; it is outside this bounded build. - database views: retain the paid product if this capability is essential; it is outside this bounded build. - templates marketplace: retain the paid product if this capability is essential; it is outside this bounded build. - integrations: retain the paid product if this capability is essential; it is outside this bounded build. - AI workspace context: retain the paid product if this capability is essential; it is outside this bounded build. ### README must contain - Exact install, configure, initialize, start, test and recovery commands for a clean folder. - The schema, fixture, acceptance results, private data locations and export format. - Every prerequisite and secret source, actual running costs and deliberately excluded capabilities. - An honest distinction between tests actually run and checks still awaiting real credentials or deployment. - Dependency documentation reviewed 2026-09-05: https://flask.palletsprojects.com/en/stable/installation/ ; https://docs.python.org/3/library/sqlite3.html ; https://flask-wtf.readthedocs.io/en/1.2.x/csrf/ ; https://docs.pylonsproject.org/projects/waitress/en/stable/usage.html. Recheck before upgrading; freeze the versions actually tested.
AGENTS.md
# Agent instructions · Notion indie build - Read `README.md` and `BUILD_PLAN.md` before writing code. The stack is fixed: Python 3.12+ and Flask, SQLite through Python sqlite3, Jinja HTML templates, CSS and vanilla JavaScript, Python unittest and browser acceptance fixtures. Do not substitute. - Work one phase at a time, in order. Do not start a phase until every "Done when" item of the previous one passes. - Prefer the fewest moving parts that satisfy the step. No frameworks, services or dependencies the plan does not name. - Secrets live in `.env`, never in source or logs. Keep `.env.example` current when a variable is introduced. - Do not invent cryptography, security guarantees, APIs or compliance claims. - Add a focused test for every destructive, security-sensitive or data-loss path the plan names. - Run the project checks before declaring a phase complete, and record any deliberate shortcut in the README under "Tradeoffs". ## Known traps - The Flask development server is for local development only. Loopback binding alone does not replace CSRF and origin validation. - Do not use array position as persistent block identity. - Do not build a formula language, embedded scripts or arbitrary third-party widgets in v1. - Markdown alone cannot losslessly encode a structured block database. - Export without an import or restore rehearsal is not verified portability.
BUILD_PLAN.md
# Build plan · Notion Build a local block notebook with a small typed database view. Phases are in dependency order. Each ends in a "Done when" list; treat an unticked item as a blocker, not a note. ## Phase 1 · Local foundation and data contract Create the runnable local foundation for a local block notebook with a small typed database view, including the real schema and acceptance fixture. ### Steps 1. Create and start the local application Run the venv command first, then stop and activate it before running the remaining commands. Use your OS instructions: Windows .venv\Scripts\activate.bat in cmd, or .venv\Scripts\Activate.ps1 in PowerShell; macOS/Linux source .venv/bin/activate. Then install the listed packages. Create app.py exposing app, load .env with python-dotenv, and add a /healthz route. Freeze tested dependency versions to requirements.txt. Create .env manually from .env.example; replace SECRET_KEY before launch. Files: `app.py`, `requirements.txt`, `.env.example`, `.gitignore` ```sh python -m venv .venv python -m pip install Flask Flask-WTF python-dotenv waitress tzdata python -m pip freeze > requirements.txt python -m flask --app app run --host 127.0.0.1 ``` 2. Implement storage and seed the named fixture For database-backed state create schema.sql and db.py using this model: pages(id,parent_id,title,revision); blocks(id,page_id,position,type,content_json); properties(id,page_id,name,type); rows(id,page_id,values_json); links(source_page,target_page); revisions(id,page_id,snapshot). Add the auxiliary relationships explicitly used in later phases; use stable ids, foreign keys, parameterized values and transactions. For canonical files use atomic replacement and hashes instead. Implement python manage.py init and python manage.py seed to create only synthetic data: A project page containing a heading, checklist, child note and two database rows. Re-running init must not erase data. Files: `schema.sql`, `db.py`, `manage.py`, `fixtures/README.md` ```sh python manage.py init python manage.py seed ``` 3. Protect the local request boundary Install Flask-WTF CSRF protection for forms and same-origin fetches, validate Host and Origin against SITE_URL, bound inputs and escape output. Deliberately public intake endpoints get bounded validation and rate limits; signed provider webhooks use signature checks instead of browser CSRF tokens. All other admin routes stay local until product authentication exists. When a later phase tests viewer/member permissions, implement the users, hashed passwords, expiring server sessions and role checks in this foundation first; product mode must never use a fabricated identity from request input. Add error, empty, keyboard-focus and retry states now. Files: `app.py`, `templates/base.html`, `test/test_foundation.py` ### Done when - [ ] The documented start command serves /healthz and the initial screen at http://127.0.0.1:5000. - [ ] Restarting preserves the seeded records or canonical files; running init again deletes nothing. - [ ] A cross-origin state-changing request to an admin route is refused. ### Watch out - The Flask development server is for local development only. Loopback binding alone does not replace CSRF and origin validation. ## Phase 2 · Page tree and blocks Page tree and blocks for Notion: Implement paragraph, heading, checklist and code blocks with stable ids and explicit up/down controls. ### Steps 1. Implement paragraph, heading, checklist and code blocks with stable ids and explicit up/down controls. Implement paragraph, heading, checklist and code blocks with stable ids and explicit up/down controls. Files: `features/page_tree_and_blocks.py`, `templates/page_tree_and_blocks.html` 2. Add page nesting and moving with cycle checks; save edits against the page revision. Add page nesting and moving with cycle checks; save edits against the page revision. Files: `features/page_tree_and_blocks.py` 3. Exercise the acceptance fixture Use A project page containing a heading, checklist, child note and two database rows. Check: Moving a page beneath its own descendant is refused. Then check: Reordering a checklist preserves its checked state and id after reload. Add a focused regression for the failure case under test/ using a temporary database or folder and fake external services; also perform the visible workflow in a browser. Files: `test/test_page_tree_and_blocks.py` ```sh python -m unittest discover -s test ``` ### Done when - [ ] Moving a page beneath its own descendant is refused. - [ ] Reordering a checklist preserves its checked state and id after reload. ### Watch out - Do not use array position as persistent block identity. ## Phase 3 · Structured rows and links Structured rows and links for Notion: Add a database block supporting text, status and date columns with table and board views. ### Steps 1. Add a database block supporting text, status and date columns with table and board views. Add a database block supporting text, status and date columns with table and board views. Files: `features/structured_rows_and_links.py`, `templates/structured_rows_and_links.html` 2. Implement page links and backlinks by id; show missing targets and search titles plus plain block text. Implement page links and backlinks by id; show missing targets and search titles plus plain block text. Files: `features/structured_rows_and_links.py` 3. Exercise the acceptance fixture Use A project page containing a heading, checklist, child note and two database rows. Check: A renamed page keeps all incoming links. Then check: Changing a row status moves it in both table and board without duplication. Add a focused regression for the failure case under test/ using a temporary database or folder and fake external services; also perform the visible workflow in a browser. Files: `test/test_structured_rows_and_links.py` ```sh python -m unittest discover -s test ``` ### Done when - [ ] A renamed page keeps all incoming links. - [ ] Changing a row status moves it in both table and board without duplication. ### Watch out - Do not build a formula language, embedded scripts or arbitrary third-party widgets in v1. ## Phase 4 · Revision and export Revision and export for Notion: Save immutable page snapshots and restore them as a new revision with a visible diff. ### Steps 1. Save immutable page snapshots and restore them as a new revision with a visible diff. Save immutable page snapshots and restore them as a new revision with a visible diff. Files: `features/revision_and_export.py`, `templates/revision_and_export.html` 2. Export Markdown for readable content plus JSON for typed rows, block ids and tree relationships. Export Markdown for readable content plus JSON for typed rows, block ids and tree relationships. Files: `features/revision_and_export.py` 3. Exercise the acceptance fixture Use A project page containing a heading, checklist, child note and two database rows. Check: Restoring a previous page version creates a new history entry. Then check: Export/import preserves the nested page and database status values. Add a focused regression for the failure case under test/ using a temporary database or folder and fake external services; also perform the visible workflow in a browser. Files: `test/test_revision_and_export.py` ```sh python -m unittest discover -s test ``` ### Done when - [ ] Restoring a previous page version creates a new history entry. - [ ] Export/import preserves the nested page and database status values. ### Watch out - Markdown alone cannot losslessly encode a structured block database. ## Phase 5 · Portable delivery and clean-start proof Finish the Notion replacement with a documented first-run path and a recoverable export. ### Steps 1. Write the user-facing runbook Document prerequisites, every configuration variable, data locations and the three domain workflows: Page tree and blocks; Structured rows and links; Revision and export. Include the exclusions, actual costs and source check date 2026-09-05. Commands shown earlier that reference project files are files the builder must implement before running them. Files: `README.md`, `.env.example` 2. Create and rehearse a recoverable backup Use sqlite3.Connection.backup for the database in DATA_DIR and pause writers while taking the matching attachment snapshot. Keep schema version, hashes and a manifest for notion. Restore into a separate empty directory or isolated deployment, with all outbound actions and schedules disabled. Recreate this proof: A project page containing a heading, checklist, child note and two database rows. Compare ids/counts and open the result before recording the restore date. Never test a restore over the only live copy. Files: `OPERATIONS.md`, `scripts/backup.py` 3. Reproduce the first-run experience Use a new folder and only README instructions to reach the fixture outcome. Install from requirements.txt, initialize storage, run the tests and exercise the UI at 375px and 1280px; use keyboard-only controls and inspect browser errors. Record exactly what passed; do not mark unrun checks complete. Files: `README.md`, `verification.md` ```sh python -m pip install -r requirements.txt python -m unittest discover -s test ``` ### Done when - [ ] A new folder reaches the documented fixture outcome using only README instructions. - [ ] A backup restored in isolation preserves the proof data and can be opened. ### Watch out - Export without an import or restore rehearsal is not verified portability. ## Not in this build - This is a local block notebook with a small typed database view; full Notion feature parity, vendor hosting and support are not included. - mature block editor - cross-device sync - permissions - database views - templates marketplace - integrations - AI workspace context ## After v1, if you want it - Extend revision and export only after the fixture and recovery checks pass. - Before adding another integration, document its credentials, limits, cost and failure behavior with primary-source links.
.env.example
# Copy to .env and fill in. Never commit .env; this file documents it. # Required. A new private folder this application creates on first run; never serve it as static files. DATA_DIR=./data/notion # Required · secret. Generate with python -c "import secrets; print(secrets.token_hex(32))" and save only in .env. SECRET_KEY=replace-with-a-random-secret # Required. Use indie for loopback-only personal work. Product mode must refuse to start until owner login and the deployment gates are configured. APP_MODE=indie # Required. The origin used for local forms and links; replace with the chosen HTTPS origin in product mode. SITE_URL=http://127.0.0.1:5000
PRODUCT.md
# Notion · product brief ## Problem A solo notes-and-database workspace is buildable, but Notion's block editor, permissions, sync, templates, AI, integrations, and collaboration take real product work. ## Product outcome An operated version of a local block notebook with a small typed database view, with authorized access, restore evidence and honest scope limits. ## Target user A builder who needs a maintainable product foundation, not a one-off demo. ## Required capabilities - web app framework - database - auth - rich-text/block editor - optional LLM API - hosting ## Explicit non-goals for v1 - This is a local block notebook with a small typed database view; full Notion feature parity, vendor hosting and support are not included. - mature block editor - cross-device sync - permissions - database views - templates marketplace - integrations - AI workspace context ## Success criteria - Moving a page beneath its own descendant is refused. - A renamed page keeps all incoming links. - Restoring a previous page version creates a new history entry. - A private-data authorization check passes using a second identity. - An off-host restore drill has a date, observed result and recovery time in OPERATIONS.md. - README names the excluded vendor capabilities and actual provider/hosting costs.
BRIEF.md
# Build brief · Notion The one-shot brief this plan expands. `BUILD_PLAN.md` (or `MILESTONES.md`) is the same sequence broken into steps and checks; where the two disagree, the plan wins. Build me a local block notebook with a small typed database view as a bounded replacement for Notion. Build it in phases in the order below. Do not write the whole product in one pass. Finish the current phase, run its Done when checks, fix failures, then continue. Indie mode completes Phases 1-5. Phase 6 is required before shared or public deployment. ### Stack (fixed, do not substitute) - Runtime: Python 3.12+ and Flask. A small local HTTP application with readable server-side handlers and no JavaScript build pipeline. - Storage: SQLite through Python sqlite3. Local ownership with explicit transactions and a portable backup path. - Interface: Jinja HTML templates, CSS and vanilla JavaScript. Implement the specified screens directly with labelled controls and progressive enhancement. - Verification: Python unittest and browser acceptance fixtures. Check invariants and the actual user workflow before the next phase. ### Data model (create this before Phase 1) - pages(id,parent_id,title,revision) - blocks(id,page_id,position,type,content_json) - properties(id,page_id,name,type) - rows(id,page_id,values_json) - links(source_page,target_page) - revisions(id,page_id,snapshot) - Use stable ids and explicit relationships; add auxiliary tables named by the phases before those phases use them. - Acceptance fixture: A project page containing a heading, checklist, child note and two database rows. ### Prerequisites and configuration - Python 3.12 or newer and a terminal: Install Python from python.org. Open a terminal in a new empty project folder. On Windows, use py -3 where this guide says python if python is not on PATH; on macOS/Linux use python3 if needed. Create .venv and activate it before installing packages. Verify: python --version reports 3.12+ and python -c "import sqlite3" succeeds. Cost: Python is free; this local prototype requires no hosting subscription. - A current desktop browser and text editor: Use an installed Chrome, Firefox or Edge browser. Open the empty project folder in your editor; open the terminal there, not in this catalog repository. Verify: You can create a text file in the project folder and open browser developer tools. Cost: No paid service required for this local step. - Notion acceptance sample: Create synthetic sample data before implementation: A project page containing a heading, checklist, child note and two database rows. Save it under fixtures/ with the expected results in fixtures/README.md; use no real credentials or customer records. Verify: The fixture files and expected outcomes exist and can be inspected without a vendor account. Cost: No paid service required for this local step. - Confirm the bounded replacement: The deliverable is a local block notebook with a small typed database view. Read every exclusion below. Indie mode runs locally; any public or shared use requires the product access and deployment gates first. Verify: You can name the primary workflow and the vendor features this version deliberately leaves out. Cost: No paid service required for this local step. - Configuration: DATA_DIR, SECRET_KEY, APP_MODE, SITE_URL. Ship .env.example, replace placeholders and exclude secrets from git. ### Phase 1 · Local foundation and data contract Build: Create the runnable local foundation for a local block notebook with a small typed database view, including the real schema and acceptance fixture. - Run the venv command first, then stop and activate it before running the remaining commands. Use your OS instructions: Windows .venv\Scripts\activate.bat in cmd, or .venv\Scripts\Activate.ps1 in PowerShell; macOS/Linux source .venv/bin/activate. Then install the listed packages. Create app.py exposing app, load .env with python-dotenv, and add a /healthz route. Freeze tested dependency versions to requirements.txt. Create .env manually from .env.example; replace SECRET_KEY before launch. Commands, after creating the named files: `python -m venv .venv`; `python -m pip install Flask Flask-WTF python-dotenv waitress tzdata`; `python -m pip freeze > requirements.txt`; `python -m flask --app app run --host 127.0.0.1`. - For database-backed state create schema.sql and db.py using this model: pages(id,parent_id,title,revision); blocks(id,page_id,position,type,content_json); properties(id,page_id,name,type); rows(id,page_id,values_json); links(source_page,target_page); revisions(id,page_id,snapshot). Add the auxiliary relationships explicitly used in later phases; use stable ids, foreign keys, parameterized values and transactions. For canonical files use atomic replacement and hashes instead. Implement python manage.py init and python manage.py seed to create only synthetic data: A project page containing a heading, checklist, child note and two database rows. Re-running init must not erase data. Commands, after creating the named files: `python manage.py init`; `python manage.py seed`. - Install Flask-WTF CSRF protection for forms and same-origin fetches, validate Host and Origin against SITE_URL, bound inputs and escape output. Deliberately public intake endpoints get bounded validation and rate limits; signed provider webhooks use signature checks instead of browser CSRF tokens. All other admin routes stay local until product authentication exists. When a later phase tests viewer/member permissions, implement the users, hashed passwords, expiring server sessions and role checks in this foundation first; product mode must never use a fabricated identity from request input. Add error, empty, keyboard-focus and retry states now. - Trap: The Flask development server is for local development only. Loopback binding alone does not replace CSRF and origin validation. Done when: The documented start command serves /healthz and the initial screen at http://127.0.0.1:5000. Restarting preserves the seeded records or canonical files; running init again deletes nothing. A cross-origin state-changing request to an admin route is refused. Do not build yet: Do not start page tree and blocks until these checks pass. ### Phase 2 · Page tree and blocks Build: Page tree and blocks for Notion: Implement paragraph, heading, checklist and code blocks with stable ids and explicit up/down controls. - Implement paragraph, heading, checklist and code blocks with stable ids and explicit up/down controls. - Add page nesting and moving with cycle checks; save edits against the page revision. - Use A project page containing a heading, checklist, child note and two database rows. Check: Moving a page beneath its own descendant is refused. Then check: Reordering a checklist preserves its checked state and id after reload. Add a focused regression for the failure case under test/ using a temporary database or folder and fake external services; also perform the visible workflow in a browser. Commands, after creating the named files: `python -m unittest discover -s test`. - Trap: Do not use array position as persistent block identity. Done when: Moving a page beneath its own descendant is refused. Reordering a checklist preserves its checked state and id after reload. Do not build yet: Do not start structured rows and links until these checks pass. ### Phase 3 · Structured rows and links Build: Structured rows and links for Notion: Add a database block supporting text, status and date columns with table and board views. - Add a database block supporting text, status and date columns with table and board views. - Implement page links and backlinks by id; show missing targets and search titles plus plain block text. - Use A project page containing a heading, checklist, child note and two database rows. Check: A renamed page keeps all incoming links. Then check: Changing a row status moves it in both table and board without duplication. Add a focused regression for the failure case under test/ using a temporary database or folder and fake external services; also perform the visible workflow in a browser. Commands, after creating the named files: `python -m unittest discover -s test`. - Trap: Do not build a formula language, embedded scripts or arbitrary third-party widgets in v1. Done when: A renamed page keeps all incoming links. Changing a row status moves it in both table and board without duplication. Do not build yet: Do not start revision and export until these checks pass. ### Phase 4 · Revision and export Build: Revision and export for Notion: Save immutable page snapshots and restore them as a new revision with a visible diff. - Save immutable page snapshots and restore them as a new revision with a visible diff. - Export Markdown for readable content plus JSON for typed rows, block ids and tree relationships. - Use A project page containing a heading, checklist, child note and two database rows. Check: Restoring a previous page version creates a new history entry. Then check: Export/import preserves the nested page and database status values. Add a focused regression for the failure case under test/ using a temporary database or folder and fake external services; also perform the visible workflow in a browser. Commands, after creating the named files: `python -m unittest discover -s test`. - Trap: Markdown alone cannot losslessly encode a structured block database. Done when: Restoring a previous page version creates a new history entry. Export/import preserves the nested page and database status values. Do not build yet: Do not start portable delivery and clean-start proof until these checks pass. ### Phase 5 · Portable delivery and clean-start proof Build: Finish the Notion replacement with a documented first-run path and a recoverable export. - Document prerequisites, every configuration variable, data locations and the three domain workflows: Page tree and blocks; Structured rows and links; Revision and export. Include the exclusions, actual costs and source check date 2026-09-05. Commands shown earlier that reference project files are files the builder must implement before running them. - Use sqlite3.Connection.backup for the database in DATA_DIR and pause writers while taking the matching attachment snapshot. Keep schema version, hashes and a manifest for notion. Restore into a separate empty directory or isolated deployment, with all outbound actions and schedules disabled. Recreate this proof: A project page containing a heading, checklist, child note and two database rows. Compare ids/counts and open the result before recording the restore date. Never test a restore over the only live copy. - Use a new folder and only README instructions to reach the fixture outcome. Install from requirements.txt, initialize storage, run the tests and exercise the UI at 375px and 1280px; use keyboard-only controls and inspect browser errors. Record exactly what passed; do not mark unrun checks complete. Commands, after creating the named files: `python -m pip install -r requirements.txt`; `python -m unittest discover -s test`. - Trap: Export without an import or restore rehearsal is not verified portability. Done when: A new folder reaches the documented fixture outcome using only README instructions. A backup restored in isolation preserves the proof data and can be opened. Do not build yet: Do not start operate and share with access controls until these checks pass. ### Phase 6 · Operate and share with access controls (product-builder only) Build: Product-builder only: make a local block notebook with a small typed database view operable for its stated audience before allowing remote access. - Add owner/member/viewer authorization as appropriate, password hashes through Werkzeug, expiring server-side sessions, CSRF and login rate limits. Add users, sessions and audit schema migrations plus an owner-init command prompting securely for its password. Enforce ownership on every private read/write/download and fail closed when product setup is incomplete. Existing learner or admin identities must use this same boundary. - Serve app:app with Waitress on loopback behind Caddy HTTPS. Configure trusted proxy headers narrowly, Secure/HttpOnly/SameSite cookies, upload limits, request ids and structured logs without private content. Run background jobs as a separate supervised process when the domain workflow requires them. Commands, after creating the named files: `waitress-serve --listen=127.0.0.1:5000 app:app`. - Add a scheduled encrypted off-host backup using this procedure: Use sqlite3.Connection.backup for the database in DATA_DIR and pause writers while taking the matching attachment snapshot. Keep schema version, hashes and a manifest for notion. Monitor health, disk space, failed jobs and backup age. Stop the service to test an alert; rehearse recovery with outbound effects disabled and record recovery time. Rotate any exposed credentials and require reconciliation before resuming queues. - Trap: Product mode is additional engineering, not a switch that makes a local prototype production-ready. Done when: An unauthenticated visitor cannot read private records, download private files or mutate the admin surface. A viewer cannot mutate data by making a direct request, and guessed ids cannot cross ownership boundaries. Stopping the service triggers the configured alert and the latest off-host backup restores the fixture in isolation. Do not build yet: Do not add new providers or vendor-scale features until the release gates are recorded. ### Out of scope (and why) - This is a local block notebook with a small typed database view; full Notion feature parity, vendor hosting and support are not included. - mature block editor: retain the paid product if this capability is essential; it is outside this bounded build. - cross-device sync: retain the paid product if this capability is essential; it is outside this bounded build. - permissions: retain the paid product if this capability is essential; it is outside this bounded build. - database views: retain the paid product if this capability is essential; it is outside this bounded build. - templates marketplace: retain the paid product if this capability is essential; it is outside this bounded build. - integrations: retain the paid product if this capability is essential; it is outside this bounded build. - AI workspace context: retain the paid product if this capability is essential; it is outside this bounded build. ### README must contain - Exact install, configure, initialize, start, test and recovery commands for a clean folder. - The schema, fixture, acceptance results, private data locations and export format. - Every prerequisite and secret source, actual running costs and deliberately excluded capabilities. - An honest distinction between tests actually run and checks still awaiting real credentials or deployment. - Dependency documentation reviewed 2026-09-05: https://flask.palletsprojects.com/en/stable/installation/ ; https://docs.python.org/3/library/sqlite3.html ; https://flask-wtf.readthedocs.io/en/1.2.x/csrf/ ; https://docs.pylonsproject.org/projects/waitress/en/stable/usage.html. Recheck before upgrading; freeze the versions actually tested.
ARCHITECTURE.md
# Architecture · Notion ## Stack | Part | Choice | Why | | --- | --- | --- | | Runtime | Python 3.12+ and Flask | A small local HTTP application with readable server-side handlers and no JavaScript build pipeline. | | Storage | SQLite through Python sqlite3 | Local ownership with explicit transactions and a portable backup path. | | Interface | Jinja HTML templates, CSS and vanilla JavaScript | Implement the specified screens directly with labelled controls and progressive enhancement. | | Verification | Python unittest and browser acceptance fixtures | Check invariants and the actual user workflow before the next phase. | ## Modules Each module has one owner concern and a documented way to replace it. | Module | Owns | How to replace it | | --- | --- | --- | | Data and identity | pages(id,parent_id,title,revision); blocks(id,page_id,position,type,content_json); properties(id,page_id,name,type); rows(id,page_id,values_json); links(source_page,target_page); revisions(id,page_id,snapshot) | Keep stable ids and a versioned repository interface; migrate storage behind it with a fixture round-trip. | | Page tree and blocks | Implement paragraph, heading, checklist and code blocks with stable ids and explicit up/down controls. | Keep the acceptance contract: Moving a page beneath its own descendant is refused. Replace only this module after replaying its fixture; preserve ids and existing records. | | Structured rows and links | Add a database block supporting text, status and date columns with table and board views. | Keep the acceptance contract: A renamed page keeps all incoming links. Replace only this module after replaying its fixture; preserve ids and existing records. | | Revision and export | Save immutable page snapshots and restore them as a new revision with a visible diff. | Keep the acceptance contract: Restoring a previous page version creates a new history entry. Replace only this module after replaying its fixture; preserve ids and existing records. | | Operations | Use sqlite3.Connection.backup for the database in DATA_DIR and pause writers while taking the matching attachment snapshot. Keep schema version, hashes and a manifest for notion. | Change host or backup destination only after an isolated restore and authorization check. | ## Configuration Every runtime setting is an environment variable documented in `.env.example`, validated at startup, with a safe local default wherever one exists. - `DATA_DIR` · required · A new private folder this application creates on first run; never serve it as static files. - `SECRET_KEY` · required, secret · Generate with python -c "import secrets; print(secrets.token_hex(32))" and save only in .env. - `APP_MODE` · required · Use indie for loopback-only personal work. Product mode must refuse to start until owner login and the deployment gates are configured. - `SITE_URL` · required · The origin used for local forms and links; replace with the chosen HTTPS origin in product mode. ## Production baseline - Security: least privilege, input validation at every boundary, secret redaction in logs, rate limits on abuse-prone paths, no invented security primitives. - Data: explicit schema and migrations, transactional writes where integrity matters, backup and restore procedures that have been exercised. - Integrations: adapters around third-party providers, idempotent webhook or job processing, bounded retries, timeouts. - Observability: structured logs with request or operation ids, an error-tracking hook, and health and readiness checks where a server exists. - Quality: unit tests for domain rules, integration tests at module boundaries, one end-to-end test of the critical path. ## Decision records For each dependency in the stack table, keep a short note: why it was chosen, its failure mode, and how it is replaced. Do not add infrastructure until a requirement in `PRODUCT.md` justifies it.
AGENTS.md
# Agent instructions · Notion product build - Read `PRODUCT.md` and `ARCHITECTURE.md` before changing code. The stack is fixed: Python 3.12+ and Flask, SQLite through Python sqlite3, Jinja HTML templates, CSS and vanilla JavaScript, Python unittest and browser acceptance fixtures. - Implement milestone by milestone from `MILESTONES.md`; keep each change reviewable and leave the application runnable at every commit. - Treat authentication, payments, encryption, imports, webhooks and destructive actions as high-risk boundaries when present. - Never invent cryptography or silently weaken a requirement to make a check pass. - Put every external service behind an interface with a deterministic fake for tests. - Add migrations and rollback or recovery notes for every persistent data change. - Log useful operational context without credentials, tokens, passwords or personal data. - Update documentation and run every check before completing a milestone. ## Known traps - The Flask development server is for local development only. Loopback binding alone does not replace CSRF and origin validation. - Do not use array position as persistent block identity. - Do not build a formula language, embedded scripts or arbitrary third-party widgets in v1. - Markdown alone cannot losslessly encode a structured block database. - Export without an import or restore rehearsal is not verified portability. - Product mode is additional engineering, not a switch that makes a local prototype production-ready.
MILESTONES.md
# Delivery milestones · Notion Estimated effort: **multi-day** for the indie phases; the production-only milestones add the trust and operability layer. ## M1 · Local foundation and data contract Create the runnable local foundation for a local block notebook with a small typed database view, including the real schema and acceptance fixture. ### Steps 1. Create and start the local application Run the venv command first, then stop and activate it before running the remaining commands. Use your OS instructions: Windows .venv\Scripts\activate.bat in cmd, or .venv\Scripts\Activate.ps1 in PowerShell; macOS/Linux source .venv/bin/activate. Then install the listed packages. Create app.py exposing app, load .env with python-dotenv, and add a /healthz route. Freeze tested dependency versions to requirements.txt. Create .env manually from .env.example; replace SECRET_KEY before launch. Files: `app.py`, `requirements.txt`, `.env.example`, `.gitignore` ```sh python -m venv .venv python -m pip install Flask Flask-WTF python-dotenv waitress tzdata python -m pip freeze > requirements.txt python -m flask --app app run --host 127.0.0.1 ``` 2. Implement storage and seed the named fixture For database-backed state create schema.sql and db.py using this model: pages(id,parent_id,title,revision); blocks(id,page_id,position,type,content_json); properties(id,page_id,name,type); rows(id,page_id,values_json); links(source_page,target_page); revisions(id,page_id,snapshot). Add the auxiliary relationships explicitly used in later phases; use stable ids, foreign keys, parameterized values and transactions. For canonical files use atomic replacement and hashes instead. Implement python manage.py init and python manage.py seed to create only synthetic data: A project page containing a heading, checklist, child note and two database rows. Re-running init must not erase data. Files: `schema.sql`, `db.py`, `manage.py`, `fixtures/README.md` ```sh python manage.py init python manage.py seed ``` 3. Protect the local request boundary Install Flask-WTF CSRF protection for forms and same-origin fetches, validate Host and Origin against SITE_URL, bound inputs and escape output. Deliberately public intake endpoints get bounded validation and rate limits; signed provider webhooks use signature checks instead of browser CSRF tokens. All other admin routes stay local until product authentication exists. When a later phase tests viewer/member permissions, implement the users, hashed passwords, expiring server sessions and role checks in this foundation first; product mode must never use a fabricated identity from request input. Add error, empty, keyboard-focus and retry states now. Files: `app.py`, `templates/base.html`, `test/test_foundation.py` ### Done when - [ ] The documented start command serves /healthz and the initial screen at http://127.0.0.1:5000. - [ ] Restarting preserves the seeded records or canonical files; running init again deletes nothing. - [ ] A cross-origin state-changing request to an admin route is refused. ### Watch out - The Flask development server is for local development only. Loopback binding alone does not replace CSRF and origin validation. ## M2 · Page tree and blocks Page tree and blocks for Notion: Implement paragraph, heading, checklist and code blocks with stable ids and explicit up/down controls. ### Steps 1. Implement paragraph, heading, checklist and code blocks with stable ids and explicit up/down controls. Implement paragraph, heading, checklist and code blocks with stable ids and explicit up/down controls. Files: `features/page_tree_and_blocks.py`, `templates/page_tree_and_blocks.html` 2. Add page nesting and moving with cycle checks; save edits against the page revision. Add page nesting and moving with cycle checks; save edits against the page revision. Files: `features/page_tree_and_blocks.py` 3. Exercise the acceptance fixture Use A project page containing a heading, checklist, child note and two database rows. Check: Moving a page beneath its own descendant is refused. Then check: Reordering a checklist preserves its checked state and id after reload. Add a focused regression for the failure case under test/ using a temporary database or folder and fake external services; also perform the visible workflow in a browser. Files: `test/test_page_tree_and_blocks.py` ```sh python -m unittest discover -s test ``` ### Done when - [ ] Moving a page beneath its own descendant is refused. - [ ] Reordering a checklist preserves its checked state and id after reload. ### Watch out - Do not use array position as persistent block identity. ## M3 · Structured rows and links Structured rows and links for Notion: Add a database block supporting text, status and date columns with table and board views. ### Steps 1. Add a database block supporting text, status and date columns with table and board views. Add a database block supporting text, status and date columns with table and board views. Files: `features/structured_rows_and_links.py`, `templates/structured_rows_and_links.html` 2. Implement page links and backlinks by id; show missing targets and search titles plus plain block text. Implement page links and backlinks by id; show missing targets and search titles plus plain block text. Files: `features/structured_rows_and_links.py` 3. Exercise the acceptance fixture Use A project page containing a heading, checklist, child note and two database rows. Check: A renamed page keeps all incoming links. Then check: Changing a row status moves it in both table and board without duplication. Add a focused regression for the failure case under test/ using a temporary database or folder and fake external services; also perform the visible workflow in a browser. Files: `test/test_structured_rows_and_links.py` ```sh python -m unittest discover -s test ``` ### Done when - [ ] A renamed page keeps all incoming links. - [ ] Changing a row status moves it in both table and board without duplication. ### Watch out - Do not build a formula language, embedded scripts or arbitrary third-party widgets in v1. ## M4 · Revision and export Revision and export for Notion: Save immutable page snapshots and restore them as a new revision with a visible diff. ### Steps 1. Save immutable page snapshots and restore them as a new revision with a visible diff. Save immutable page snapshots and restore them as a new revision with a visible diff. Files: `features/revision_and_export.py`, `templates/revision_and_export.html` 2. Export Markdown for readable content plus JSON for typed rows, block ids and tree relationships. Export Markdown for readable content plus JSON for typed rows, block ids and tree relationships. Files: `features/revision_and_export.py` 3. Exercise the acceptance fixture Use A project page containing a heading, checklist, child note and two database rows. Check: Restoring a previous page version creates a new history entry. Then check: Export/import preserves the nested page and database status values. Add a focused regression for the failure case under test/ using a temporary database or folder and fake external services; also perform the visible workflow in a browser. Files: `test/test_revision_and_export.py` ```sh python -m unittest discover -s test ``` ### Done when - [ ] Restoring a previous page version creates a new history entry. - [ ] Export/import preserves the nested page and database status values. ### Watch out - Markdown alone cannot losslessly encode a structured block database. ## M5 · Portable delivery and clean-start proof Finish the Notion replacement with a documented first-run path and a recoverable export. ### Steps 1. Write the user-facing runbook Document prerequisites, every configuration variable, data locations and the three domain workflows: Page tree and blocks; Structured rows and links; Revision and export. Include the exclusions, actual costs and source check date 2026-09-05. Commands shown earlier that reference project files are files the builder must implement before running them. Files: `README.md`, `.env.example` 2. Create and rehearse a recoverable backup Use sqlite3.Connection.backup for the database in DATA_DIR and pause writers while taking the matching attachment snapshot. Keep schema version, hashes and a manifest for notion. Restore into a separate empty directory or isolated deployment, with all outbound actions and schedules disabled. Recreate this proof: A project page containing a heading, checklist, child note and two database rows. Compare ids/counts and open the result before recording the restore date. Never test a restore over the only live copy. Files: `OPERATIONS.md`, `scripts/backup.py` 3. Reproduce the first-run experience Use a new folder and only README instructions to reach the fixture outcome. Install from requirements.txt, initialize storage, run the tests and exercise the UI at 375px and 1280px; use keyboard-only controls and inspect browser errors. Record exactly what passed; do not mark unrun checks complete. Files: `README.md`, `verification.md` ```sh python -m pip install -r requirements.txt python -m unittest discover -s test ``` ### Done when - [ ] A new folder reaches the documented fixture outcome using only README instructions. - [ ] A backup restored in isolation preserves the proof data and can be opened. ### Watch out - Export without an import or restore rehearsal is not verified portability. ## M6 · Operate and share with access controls (production only) Product-builder only: make a local block notebook with a small typed database view operable for its stated audience before allowing remote access. ### Steps 1. Establish owner access before exposure Add owner/member/viewer authorization as appropriate, password hashes through Werkzeug, expiring server-side sessions, CSRF and login rate limits. Add users, sessions and audit schema migrations plus an owner-init command prompting securely for its password. Enforce ownership on every private read/write/download and fail closed when product setup is incomplete. Existing learner or admin identities must use this same boundary. Files: `ARCHITECTURE.md`, `OPERATIONS.md` 2. Deploy a monitored service Serve app:app with Waitress on loopback behind Caddy HTTPS. Configure trusted proxy headers narrowly, Secure/HttpOnly/SameSite cookies, upload limits, request ids and structured logs without private content. Run background jobs as a separate supervised process when the domain workflow requires them. Files: `Caddyfile`, `OPERATIONS.md` ```sh waitress-serve --listen=127.0.0.1:5000 app:app ``` 3. Rehearse loss and recovery Add a scheduled encrypted off-host backup using this procedure: Use sqlite3.Connection.backup for the database in DATA_DIR and pause writers while taking the matching attachment snapshot. Keep schema version, hashes and a manifest for notion. Monitor health, disk space, failed jobs and backup age. Stop the service to test an alert; rehearse recovery with outbound effects disabled and record recovery time. Rotate any exposed credentials and require reconciliation before resuming queues. Files: `OPERATIONS.md`, `release-checklist.md` ### Done when - [ ] An unauthenticated visitor cannot read private records, download private files or mutate the admin surface. - [ ] A viewer cannot mutate data by making a direct request, and guessed ids cannot cross ownership boundaries. - [ ] Stopping the service triggers the configured alert and the latest off-host backup restores the fixture in isolation. ### Watch out - Product mode is additional engineering, not a switch that makes a local prototype production-ready.
OPERATIONS.md
# Operations · Notion ## Backup Use sqlite3.Connection.backup for the database in DATA_DIR and pause writers while taking the matching attachment snapshot. Keep schema version, hashes and a manifest for notion. ## Restore Restore into a separate empty directory or isolated deployment, with all outbound actions and schedules disabled. Recreate this proof: A project page containing a heading, checklist, child note and two database rows. Compare ids/counts and open the result before recording the restore date. Never test a restore over the only live copy. Do a restore drill before the first real user, and write the date here when it passes. ## Monitoring Check HTTP availability, free disk, backup age and domain failures for Page tree and blocks, Structured rows and links, Revision and export. Alert without logging private payloads. ## Incident checklist Pause outbound jobs and public intake as appropriate, preserve redacted diagnostics, restore an isolated verified backup, rotate affected credentials and reconcile uncertain effects before reopening. 1. Contain the issue without destroying evidence or user data. 2. Record the timeline and affected scope. 3. Rotate exposed secrets and revoke compromised sessions or credentials. 4. Restore from a verified backup when needed. 5. Document the root cause, the remediation and the regression test. ## Release gate - [ ] Moving a page beneath its own descendant is refused. - [ ] A renamed page keeps all incoming links. - [ ] Restoring a previous page version creates a new history entry. - [ ] A private-data authorization check passes using a second identity. - [ ] An off-host restore drill has a date, observed result and recovery time in OPERATIONS.md. - [ ] README names the excluded vendor capabilities and actual provider/hosting costs. ## Launch constraint Do not market omitted Notion capabilities as implemented. The non-goals in `PRODUCT.md` remain user-visible limitations until they are deliberately delivered.
.env.example
# Copy to .env and fill in. Never commit .env; this file documents it. # Required. A new private folder this application creates on first run; never serve it as static files. DATA_DIR=./data/notion # Required · secret. Generate with python -c "import secrets; print(secrets.token_hex(32))" and save only in .env. SECRET_KEY=replace-with-a-random-secret # Required. Use indie for loopback-only personal work. Product mode must refuse to start until owner login and the deployment gates are configured. APP_MODE=indie # Required. The origin used for local forms and links; replace with the chosen HTTPS origin in product mode. SITE_URL=http://127.0.0.1:5000
$ choose a build depth, inspect the files, then open the complete pack in your agent
They pay for a shared workspace that nontechnical teammates can trust and understand.
xmature block editor
xcross-device sync
xpermissions
xdatabase views
xtemplates marketplace
xintegrations
xAI workspace context
share on X ↗"I just replaced Notion ($12/mo) with one prompt"
Don't feel like building it? These folks already made it free.
AppFlowyNotion, except the useful copy can live on your machine.open source↗
SiYuanBlocks, databases and relations with local storage and considerably more exposed wiring.open source↗
AFFiNENotion and Miro had one child, then let it keep files locally.free↗all 3 free alternatives to Notion →· no votes, no pay-to-list · just what's real
Notion pricing
| plan | monthly | annual (per mo) | what you get |
|---|---|---|---|
| free | $0/workspace | $0/workspace | Unlimited pages/blocks for 1 person; 5 MB/file, 7-day history, 10 guests, 1 chart and 1 notion.site domain; multi-member workspaces have an unpublished block cap. |
| plus | $12/user | $10/user | Unlimited blocks; files up to about 5 GB each; 30-day history; unlimited guests; 5 notion.site domains and unlimited charts. |
| business | $24/user | $20/user | 90-day history, unlimited guests and 5 notion.site domains; Notion AI included subject to fair-use limits. |
| enterprise | custom | — | Unlimited page history; custom seats, security controls and pricing. |
free tierFor 1 person: unlimited pages/blocks, 5 MB uploads, 7-day history, 10 guests, 1 chart and 1 notion.site domain; 2+ member workspaces face an unpublished block cap.
billingmonthly + annual; per member per workspace; added seats prorated; removed seats stay paid until renewal
hidden costsEach workspace bills separately. Custom Notion Agents cost $10 per 1,000 credits; credit billing for Workers begins 2026-10-15. Custom domains cost $10/month each or $8/month each on annual billing. Removing a member does not refund the current term, though the paid seat can be reassigned.
verified 2026-08-11 · source ↗
Is Notion free?
Free for individuals with unlimited blocks; 5 MB uploads and 7-day history. Paid is Plus at $12/mo (checked 2026-08-07).
Vibecode Notion
Kinda. The core of Notion is buildable in a weekend with the prompt on this page, but there are real gaps: mature block editor, cross-device sync. Read the honest list above before committing.
How much does Notion cost?
Notion costs about $12/month (Plus, checked 2026-08-07), which is $144 per year.
What do I lose by replacing Notion?
Honestly: mature block editor; cross-device sync; permissions; database views; templates marketplace; integrations; AI workspace context. If any of those are load-bearing for you, keep paying.
Is there an open-source alternative to Notion?
Yes: AppFlowy (Notion, except the useful copy can live on your machine.) SiYuan (Blocks, databases and relations with local storage and considerably more exposed wiring.) AFFiNE (Notion and Miro had one child, then let it keep files locally.) All 3 curated free alternatives are at vibecodeit.com/notion/alternatives. The prompt is for when you want it exactly your way.