OpenClawSkills
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Core Concept • TutorialHeader.readTime

Memory System

Understanding how OpenClaw stores and recalls information using a file-based memory system.

OpenClaw's memory system stores conversations, context, and information as plain text files in your workspace. This file-based approach means you can read, edit, search, and version control your memories just like any other document.

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How Memory Works

OpenClaw stores memories as Markdown files, categorized into three types:

  • Daily Notes: Automated logs of daily activities and facts.
  • Conversation History: Full transcripts stored in session files.
  • Context Files: Key data loaded automatically whenever the agent starts a relevant conversation.

This structure ensures that the agent "remembers" your preferences and past interactions across different sessions.

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Memory Storage

By default, memories are stored in your workspace (usually ~/.openclaw/workspace):

Daily Notes~/.openclaw/workspace/YYYY-MM-DD.md
Sessions~/.openclaw/workspace/sessions/

Example Daily Note

~/.openclaw/workspace/2026-01-25.md
# 2026-01-25

## Conversations
- Discussed project ideas with user
- Helped with configuration setup

## Important Information
- User prefers dark mode
- Workspace location: ~/projects
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Memory Access

Automatic Access

The agent automatically performs Context Loading and Semantic Search to find relevant memories during conversations.

Manual Access

Use any text editor (VS Code, Notepad, Vim) to read or modify memories. You can also use tools like Raycast or Obsidian to build a knowledge base on top of OpenClaw's memories.

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Core Features

  • Context Persistence

    Context is maintained over time, ensuring the agent remembers your ongoing projects.

  • Extremely Searchable

    Since memories are just Markdown, you can use grep or spotlight to find information instantly.

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Managing Memories

You are the master of your agent's brain. You can:

  • View: Browse daily notes in your file manager.
  • Edit: Manually correct inaccurate info in a memory file.
  • Search: Use standard text search tools to find past events.
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Best Practices

✓

Let It Grow: More memories lead to better personalized context.

✓

Review Regularly: Periodically check daily notes to see what was captured.

ℹ

Backup: Regularly backup your workspace directory (incl. memories).

⚠

Clean Up: Delete outdated session files to save space and improve search.

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Privacy & Security

Private by Default

All memory files are stored locally on your machine. They are never synced to a cloud or shared with third parties. You have total control to read, edit, or delete them anytime.