not

Learn how to use the Boolean "not" operator in Notion formulas.

The not operator inverts the truth value of a Boolean/Checkbox value in a Notion formula. Another way of thinking about it is that it returns true only if its operand is false. It accepts Boolean operands.

not Boolean

!Boolean
Code language: JavaScript (javascript)

It can be used in several ways, including:

  • Changing true to false, or vice-versa
  • Checking whether a property is not empty
  • Inverting the truth value of an if statement

Good to know: Notion is no longer picky, so !NOT, and Not now also work.

not true /* Output: false */

NOT empty("Hello") /* Output: true */

!if(50 > 40, true, false) /* Output: false */
Code language: JavaScript (javascript)

This example database shows a list of applications to join a pirate crew. The captain only wants to hire pirates that have powers, and he won’t accept anyone with snot-based powers. That’d be gross.

The Interview checkbox returns true only if both of those conditions are met. The Interviews view filters by this checkbox, showing the captain only the candidates that meet his conditions.

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if(
	not empty(
		prop("Power")
	) and not test(
		prop("Power"), "[Ss]not"
	),
	true,
	false
)
Code language: JavaScript (javascript)

This formula uses a couple other functions:

  • empty – tests to see if the Power property is empty
  • test – tests to see if the first argument (the Power property’s string value) contains the second argument, “Snot”.
    • By writing “[Ss]” the test() function will catch both cases; normally, it is case-sensitive.

About the Author

My name is Thomas Frank, and I'm a Notion-certified writer, YouTuber, and template creator. I've been using Notion since 2018 to organize my personal life and to run my business and YouTube channel. In addition to this formula reference, I've created a free Notion course for beginners and several productivity-focused Notion templates. If you'd like to connect, follow me on Twitter.

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Fill out the form below and I’ll answer as soon as I can! ~Thomas

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Fill out the form below and I’ll answer as soon as I can! ~Thomas