Add scoped Plex TV matching hints without renaming every file

The useful distinctions

• The exact filename is .plexmatch.
• A series-level file affects its directory and descendants.
• Directives use a hint name, colon and value.
• Explicit episode hints can override numbering parsed from filenames.

Use an exception file sparingly

A hint file is useful when a legitimate existing archive cannot be renamed conveniently. It should explain a specific exception, not hide an unreviewed collection layout. Confirm the intended show and episode mapping first. Keep a separate manifest of the original filenames and their meaning so the archive remains understandable even when opened outside Plex or migrated to another tool.

Keep the scope visible

Place the file at the level that needs the rule. A series-wide hint can affect descendants, while a season-specific correction should remain close to that season. The example uses explicit filenames to make the intended mapping easy to review. It avoids advanced wildcard patterns and therefore does not depend on newer pattern-token additions. Do not invent a provider ID merely to make the file look more complete.

Test one mapping before expanding

Choose one unusual file and one ordinary file as the pilot. Verify that the exceptional name receives the intended episode identity without disturbing the ordinary layout. If an override gives an unexpected result, inspect the nearest applicable hint file before renaming media again. Keep comments brief and useful so a later maintainer can understand why a scanner hint exists and whether it is still needed.

A focused way to proceed

1. Confirm the series identity and intended episode numbers.
2. Create an exact .plexmatch file at the narrowest appropriate series or season location.
3. Add title/year hints and explicit individual episode mappings.
4. Scan a small pilot and verify the intended identity and episode numbering.

Worked example · synthetic

# Fictional archive identity and explicit episode mapping
Title: Orchard Notes
Year: 2024
Season: 1
Episode: 01: Opening workshop.mkv
Episode: 02: Second workshop.mkv

Read the comparison

Hints affect matching interpretation; they do not split, rename or repair media files.

When to stop or ask for help

If matching remains wrong, inspect hint scope and exact filenames, then provide the minimal synthetic structure with server version.