Help & Instructions

This page explains how to prepare your CSV file, use the generator, and print the flashcards so that fronts and backs line up when you cut them.

1. Preparing your CSV file

Your CSV file should contain a header row followed by one row per flashcard. Each row should have at least two columns:

  • Front – the keyword, question, or term
  • Back – the definition, answer, or explanation

Example CSV (saved as .csv):

keyword,definition
CPU,Central Processing Unit
RAM,Random Access Memory
Cache,Very fast memory storing frequently used data and instructions

The generator tries to detect sensible column headings (e.g. keyword, front, definition, back). You can always override the choices using the dropdowns.

2. Using the generator

  1. Go to the Home page.
  2. Click Choose file and select your CSV.
  3. Check the preview table on the right. Confirm that the correct columns are selected for front and back.
  4. Adjust the font size if needed. Larger font sizes work best for short terms; smaller ones are better for longer definitions.
  5. Decide whether you want card borders (cut lines). These make it easier to cut neatly.
  6. Click Generate PDF.

The browser will download a PDF file named flashcards.pdf. Each A4 page contains 10 cards (5 columns × 2 rows). If you have more than 10 cards, multiple pages will be created automatically.

3. Printing the cards

To ensure the fronts and backs line up correctly:

  1. Open the generated PDF.
  2. In your print dialogue, choose double-sided (duplex) printing.
  3. Set the flip option to flip on long edge. This keeps the text the right way up on both sides and aligns the mirrored layout.
  4. Print a single test sheet first to confirm alignment.
  5. Once happy, print the full set and cut along the borders.
Note: Printer drivers and settings vary. If alignment is slightly off, you may need to:
  • Disable any automatic “fit to page” scaling in the print settings.
  • Ensure the paper size is set to A4.

4. Tips for best results

  • Keep front text fairly short (keywords, question stems, etc.).
  • Use concise but clear definitions so they fit comfortably on the card.
  • For very long text, choose a smaller font size in the layout options.
  • Use slightly thicker paper or card for more durable flashcards.

5. Troubleshooting

  • No cards appear in the preview: Check that your CSV has a header row and at least one data row. Make sure you’ve chosen the correct columns for front/back.
  • Strange characters (�) appear: Make sure the CSV is saved as UTF-8 (most modern spreadsheet tools do this by default).
  • Fronts and backs don’t line up: Confirm you are using double-sided printing with “flip on long edge” and that the paper size is A4 with no scaling.

This tool runs entirely in your browser. Your CSV data is not uploaded to a server, which helps keep student information private.