Basic Memory
by basicmachines-co
Basic Memory allows you to create persistent knowledge through natural language conversations with LLMs, storing everything in simple Markdown files locally. It uses the Model Context Protocol (MCP) to enable any compatible LLM to read and write to your local knowledge base.
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What is Basic Memory?
Basic Memory is a tool that enables you to build and maintain a personal knowledge base using natural language conversations with Large Language Models (LLMs). It stores knowledge in local Markdown files, allowing both humans and LLMs to read and write to the same files, creating a bi-directional knowledge flow.
How to use Basic Memory?
- Install Basic Memory using uv or Smithery.
- Configure your LLM (e.g., Claude Desktop) to use Basic Memory as an MCP server.
- Start conversations with your LLM, asking it to create and update notes.
- View and edit the Markdown files in your preferred editor (e.g., Obsidian, VS Code).
- Reference existing notes in conversations to provide context to the LLM.
Key features of Basic Memory
Local-first knowledge storage
Bi-directional knowledge flow (human and LLM)
Structured Markdown format for semantic understanding
Traversable knowledge graph
Integration with LLMs via Model Context Protocol (MCP)
Real-time sync of knowledge base
Use cases of Basic Memory
Building a personal knowledge base through conversations
Creating structured notes during natural language interactions
Having AI assistants remember previous conversations
Navigating a knowledge graph semantically
Keeping knowledge local and under your control
FAQ from Basic Memory
Where are my notes stored?
Where are my notes stored?
Notes are stored as Markdown files in a local directory, by default ~/basic-memory.
What LLMs are compatible with Basic Memory?
What LLMs are compatible with Basic Memory?
Basic Memory works with any LLM that supports the Model Context Protocol (MCP), such as Claude Desktop.
How do I configure Claude Desktop to use Basic Memory?
How do I configure Claude Desktop to use Basic Memory?
You need to edit the claude_desktop_config.json file and add Basic Memory as an MCP server, providing the command and arguments to run the Basic Memory MCP server.
Can I use Basic Memory with VS Code?
Can I use Basic Memory with VS Code?
Yes, Basic Memory can be used with VS Code. You can install it via UV or manually configure the MCP settings in your VS Code settings.
How does Basic Memory handle multiple projects?
How does Basic Memory handle multiple projects?
Basic Memory supports multiple projects, allowing you to organize your knowledge base into different contexts. You can specify the project name when configuring the MCP server.