Getting Started with RxDict
RxDict is a 100% client-side offline dictionary reader and spreadsheet converter. Convert your clinical notes, drug monographs, or reference spreadsheets into high-performance SQLite or JSON databases right in your browser.
100% Client-Side Privacy
Your files and dictionaries never leave your computer. All compilation and lookups run entirely inside WebAssembly (sql.js) in your local browser runtime.
Blazing Fast Indexing
SQLite B-Tree indexes enable instant search across tens of thousands of entries with zero memory lag or rendering bottleneck.
Offline Persistent Storage
Dictionaries are saved directly to browser IndexedDB storage and pre-cached by Service Worker, allowing seamless usage without internet.
1. Converting Spreadsheets (Excel & CSV)
You can turn any Excel spreadsheet (.xlsx, .xls) or CSV file into a dictionary:
- Click Convert Excel/CSV on the home library view.
- Select or drag your
.xlsxor.csvfile. - Choose the Headword (Key) Column — this will serve as the primary title/search term for each entry.
- Select an Entry Layout style:
- List: Clean stacked definition lists with subtle dividing lines. Ideal for general glossaries.
- Table: Shaded 2-column key-value grid. Ideal for dosing tables, lab values, and specs.
- Sections: Structured paragraph blocks. Ideal for clinical monographs and detailed notes.
- Choose your target format (SQLite .db or JSON .json) and click Build Dictionary.
2. Supported Dictionary Formats
RxDict supports two primary dictionary database formats:
SQLite Database (.db, .sqlite)
Binary SQLite database formatted with indexed entries(id, word, definition) tables. Fast B-Tree lookups powered by WebAssembly.
JSON Dictionary (.json)
Lightweight JSON structure containing dictionary headers and entry arrays. Easy to inspect, edit, or generate programmatically.
Which format should you choose?
- Choose SQLite (.db): Recommended for large dictionaries (5,000 to 100,000+ entries). Uses indexed B-Trees for instant lookups without consuming excessive memory.
- Choose JSON (.json): Recommended for small to medium dictionaries (< 5,000 entries) or when you need human-readable, easily editable files.
3. Frequently Asked Questions
Is my data uploaded to any server?
No. RxDict operates 100% client-side in your browser. Neither your uploaded spreadsheets nor your generated dictionary databases are transmitted over the network.
Can I use RxDict without an internet connection?
Yes! RxDict is a Progressive Web App (PWA). Once loaded, the WebAssembly engine, Service Worker, and IndexedDB storage run completely offline.
Can I download/export my converted dictionaries?
Yes. You can export any generated or imported dictionary from your library at any time by clicking the export/download button on the dictionary card.
Ready to create your offline dictionary?
Convert an Excel spreadsheet or import an existing SQLite/JSON database to start reading offline.