Create your passphrase

This passphrase encrypts your journal on this device. Only you will ever hold it — if you lose it, your entries can't be recovered.

What it is

A passphrase is a secret phrase that unlocks your journal. Your device turns it into the encryption key. We never see it or store it — so a longer, memorable phrase beats a short, cryptic password.

When you set it

Once, the first time you open Clearlight. After that you enter it to unlock on each device — or tick “Remember me on this device” so a trusted device just opens.

How to come up with a good one

Easiest strong trick: string together four random, unrelated words. Easy to remember, very hard to guess.

otter+ lantern+ canyon+ velvet → otter-lantern-canyon-velvet

✓ Do

Make it long — 4+ words is plenty.
Pick something only you'd think of.
Set a hint (a nudge, never the phrase).

✗ Don't

Reuse a password from elsewhere.
Use a short, obvious word.
Write the phrase itself in the hint.

🔑 Keep it safe: if you forget your passphrase, your entries can't be recovered — that's what makes them private. Store it somewhere safe (a password manager works well).