Creating a Notion dashboard is easier than it looks. It’s all about combining pages, databases, and widgets to create a personal or team command center.Here’s a simple step-by-step guide to help you build one from scratch.
If creating your own dashboard feels a bit overwhelming, or if you’d rather skip the setup and get started right away, explore Indify’s ready-to-use dashboard templates — easily downloadable and customizable so you can start faster.
Learn more about it here.
1️⃣ Decide the Purpose
There are endless ways to use Notion.
It all depends on your needs and workflow. Whether you’re managing projects, organizing class materials, planning events, or simply creating a personal space to stay productive, Notion can adapt to almost any purpose. It’s flexible enough to work as your planner, task manager, database, or creative hub — all in one place.
Before you start designing, take a moment to decide what your dashboard is for:
- Personal use, like tracking goals, habits, or finances
- Work or study, such as managing projects, lessons, or team tasks
- Creative or community spaces, for content planning, club management, or event organizing
2️⃣ Add Structure
Use headings, columns, and dividers to shape your dashboard. This helps you organize what you want to include and decide where each section should go.
You can also use special blocks to add structure to your dashboard:
- Quote block – highlight a key idea, reminder, or short message in a subtle way.
- Callout block – draw attention to important notes, tasks, or tips using icons and color.
- Toggle block – hide details under expandable sections for a cleaner layout.
See what other blocks there are here.
3️⃣ Add Functionality
Turn your static layout into a fully functional workspace by inserting databases. These blocks help you manage and visualize tasks, goals, or schedules directly within your dashboard.
Start by adding a database using the /table, /list, or /calendar command:
- Table view – best for tracking detailed items like projects, habits, or tasks.
- List view – a simple way to display notes or to-dos in a clean, linear layout.
- Calendar view – perfect for scheduling events, deadlines, or milestones.
Learn more about databases here.
You can also link existing databases from other pages. Linked views automatically sync with the original database, so any updates you make appear everywhere.
4️⃣ Add Widgets
Bring your dashboard to life by embedding widgets from Indify.co. Widgets help you display real-time information, track progress, or simply add visual flair to your workspace.
Choose from a variety of widgets such as:
- 🕓 Clock – display local or world time zones.
- 📅 Calendar – keep upcoming events and deadlines visible.
- 🌤️ Weather – show live weather updates for your location.
- ⏳ Countdown – track days until an important date or event.
Learn more about other Indify widgets here.
Check out our guides to embedding your newly created widget onto Notion or your favorite productivity platforms here.
5️⃣ Add Personality
Once your layout and content are set, it’s time to give your dashboard a personal touch. Small design tweaks can make your workspace more enjoyable and easier to navigate.
Here are simple ways to customize the look:
- Add icons and covers – give each page a unique visual identity and make them easier to recognize at a glance.
- Play around with columns – arrange sections side by side to create balance and improve navigation.
- Use dividers – break up content into clear sections for a cleaner layout.
- Add photos or image galleries – make your dashboard more visual and inspiring with images that match your theme.
- Rearrange sections – move blocks, widgets, and databases until the flow fits your workflow perfectly.
Looking to share your creation? Explore how to create your own Notion template — a step-by-step guide to help you share your dashboard with ease.
Learn more about it here.
On this page
- 1️⃣ Decide the Purpose
- 2️⃣ Add Structure
- 3️⃣ Add Functionality
- 4️⃣ Add Widgets
- 5️⃣ Add Personality