Failure to save bug that causes data loss

Bug graveyard
1

The Situation

I was writing in a file and then saw a message that said: “Failed to save file.” Afterwards, I was unable to click out of my current file into any of the other files. I could click on the name of another file in the sidebar, but nothing happened.

I copied and pasted the current file, quit out of Obsidian and re-opened Obsidian. The copy + paste apparently did not take because the file did not save to my clipboard.

As a result, I have lost the contents on the file I was working on.

The Question

What can I do to prevent this moving forward? Specifically, what was the reason that Obsidian showed the “Failed to Save” message?

Additionally, is there anything I can do to recover the lost file?

(Note: there is a previous version of this post incorrectly posted to the help tag. I closed that topic and moved it here in order to post it in the right category)

2

What’s your OS?

3

The most up-to-date version of macOS Big Sur

4

You may have this problem:

https://forum.obsidian.md/t/macos-obsidian-does-not-save-and-get-stuck-in-a-limbo-state/18947

1 Like
5

Based on the thread, I agree with your conclusion.

Is there anything I can do to remediate the problem on my side?

6

Unfortunately no.
If you see that message, select-copy the current file and paste outside obsidian. Then restart Obsidian.

I also suggest you to decrease the file recovery plugin interval.

7

I see. In that case, are you aware of plans on the Obsidian side to address the bug?

I tried to copy and paste in this situation, but the clipboard did not work for me.

8

This is an upstream issue, so whenever it’s fixed by either apple or electron(node) we will get the fix.

1 Like