# TaskNotes with mdbase

TaskNotes uses mdbase collections to store tasks as portable Markdown records. The same app works with two kinds of collection:

- **Hosted by mdbase:** available online without your computer running. You need an internet connection, but not the desktop Connector.
- **On your computer:** files remain in a local folder. Keep that computer reachable and mdbase Connect running while other devices use the collection.

Hosted collections can also be mirrored to your computer, so you can work with local Markdown files. Mirror setup is outside this walkthrough.

## Start with a hosted collection

1. Open [TaskNotes](https://app.tasknotes.dev) and choose a collection. Sign in to mdbase if asked.
2. Select a collection labelled **Hosted by mdbase**, then choose **Review access**.
3. Review the application, collection, permissions and setup changes. Approve only if you agree.
4. Return to TaskNotes and add a task. It is saved in the hosted collection.

If you do not have a hosted collection, expand **Add or connect another collection → Create hosted collection**. Creation and approval of app access are separate steps.

## Connect an existing local folder

1. Visit [mdbase.dev/downloads](https://mdbase.dev/downloads/) and choose the **desktop app** for your platform. Follow the current installation and beta security guidance, then open mdbase Connect. The standalone CLI download does not include the desktop interface.
2. Name your computer and choose **Continue in browser**. Sign in if asked, approve the computer, and return to the desktop app.
3. Open **Collections → Add existing**. Select the collection root containing `mdbase.yaml`, not just the `tasks` subfolder. Adding the folder validates it in place; it does not move or upload its files.
4. In TaskNotes, open the mdbase collection chooser and select the collection listed under your connected computer.
5. Review and approve the requested access and setup changes. If TaskNotes subsequently asks, review **Apply reviewed setup** as well.
6. Add a task and inspect its Markdown file. Completing the task updates the file's status to `done`.

## Switch collections

Open **Settings → Change collection** and choose a previously approved collection. **Connect another collection** returns to mdbase to approve another one.

## Recording notes

This 3:38 walkthrough starts with two brief explanatory sections, then uses the verified screen recordings from the previous cut, reordered to teach hosted collections first. Application demonstrations retain their visible cursors and short captions.

All data is disposable LAB data. Account sign-in and OS-specific installer dialogs are omitted. The native file chooser and VS Code editor are Linux examples; the connection steps apply across platforms and no particular Markdown editor is required. This is an edited walkthrough, not an uncut session.