How do I add a new block to a Notion page?

Adding blocks to your Notion pages is surprisingly straightforward, with multiple methods that cater to different working styles and preferences. The most intuitive approach involves typing a forward slash (/) anywhere on your page, which instantly opens a comprehensive menu of available block types. This simple command works consistently across desktop and mobile platforms, making it the go-to method for most users who appreciate its speed and accessibility.

Beyond the slash command, you'll discover several other efficient ways to insert blocks that suit different scenarios. The plus (+) button appears when you hover to the left of any existing block on desktop, offering a visual alternative that's particularly helpful when you're still familiarizing yourself with Notion's interface. For those who prefer keyboard efficiency, markdown shortcuts provide instant block creation—typing "# " creates a heading, "- " starts a bulleted list, and "1. " begins a numbered list. These shortcuts feel natural if you're already comfortable with markdown syntax.

The newest addition to Notion's block arsenal is the Button block, accessible through "/button," which allows you to pre-configure multiple blocks for instant insertion. This feature proves invaluable when you're working with templates or repetitive content structures, though it requires initial setup time that might not justify its use for simple, one-off additions.

Mobile users enjoy nearly identical functionality, with the slash command working seamlessly across iOS and Android devices. However, the drag-and-drop experience can feel less precise on smaller screens, and the plus button requires more deliberate tapping compared to desktop hovering. These minor limitations rarely impact productivity but are worth considering if you primarily work on mobile.

While adding blocks is generally intuitive, you might occasionally encounter situations where blocks don't appear as expected. This typically occurs when you're in view-only mode or lack editing permissions on shared pages. Additionally, some advanced block types like databases or embedded content may require additional configuration steps after insertion. Understanding these nuances helps you troubleshoot quickly and maintain your creative momentum while building comprehensive Notion pages.