How to Create Notion-Style Databases on Your Mac with Tokie

You Don't Need a Complex App to Create a Database on Your Mac

When you search for a "database for Mac," you're flooded with options: complex SQL clients like MySQL Workbench, developer tools like PostgreSQL, or legacy software like FileMaker. But what if you just want the simple, flexible power of a Notion database to organize your local files?

Good news: you can. This guide will show you how to turn any folder on your Mac into a powerful, Notion-style database using Tokie, giving you the organizational power you need without the technical overhead.

What Makes a Notion Database So Great?

Let's break down what people love about Notion's databases:

• Custom Properties: The ability to add tags, dates, statuses, and more to any item.
• Flexible Views: Seeing the same information as a table, a list, or a gallery.
• Inline Notes: Adding context and content directly to a database entry.

It’s a simple, visual way to organize information. Now, let's apply that to your local files.

How to Create a Notion-Style Database with Tokie

Tokie lets you add these powerful features directly to your Mac's folders. Here’s how to create your first local "database" in minutes.

Step 1: Choose a Folder to Become Your Database

Start with any folder. It could be for client projects, research papers, video assets, or personal documents.

Step 2: Add Custom Fields to Your Files

This is where the magic happens. With Tokie, you can add custom properties to any file or subfolder.

1. Open the target folder in Tokie.
2. Click the add button on the top right corner of any folder view.
3. In the popup, add fields like:
   • Status: A select field with options like In Progress, Pending Review, Completed.
   • Due Date: A select field to track deadlines.
   • Client: A text field for the client's name.

Instantly, you've added structured metadata to your folders, just like in a Notion database.

Step 3: Write Inline Notes for Context

Every database entry needs context. In Tokie, you can create a Markdown note (Notes.md) inside any folder to add project briefs, to-do lists, or important links. This note appears right alongside your files, giving you a complete overview.

Step 4: You've Created a Local Database!

That's it. Your folder is now a database. Each subfolder is an entry with its own status, due date, and notes. You can sort and filter based on these fields, giving you a powerful way to organize your files on your Mac without ever leaving the file system.

Why This is Better Than a Traditional Database

For organizing files, this approach beats a technical database app:

• No Setup: No servers to install or schemas to define.
• Works with Your Files: Your files stay where they are. You're just adding a layer of organization on top.
• 100% Offline and Private: It's your data, on your machine.
• Blazing Fast: It's all local, so there's no network lag.

This isn't for running a web application; it's a personal database software designed for your everyday files and projects.

Start Organizing Today

Stop wrestling with complex software. Bring the simplicity and power of a Notion database to your Mac's file system with Tokie and build the organized, local-first workflow you've been looking for.