Choosing the right notebook might seem like a simple task, but anyone who’s ever bought one they never use knows it can be surprisingly tricky. Whether you want a notebook for journaling, sketching, work notes, or planning, picking one that suits your style and purpose is key to forming a lasting habit.
In this post, we’ll walk through how to choose a notebook you’ll actually use, focusing on factors that matter—from size to paper type and cover style. Let’s dive in!
Why Choosing the Right Notebook Matters
A notebook is more than just paper; it’s a tool for creativity, productivity, and organization. The wrong notebook can discourage you or make writing feel like a chore. On the other hand, the right notebook can inspire you to jot down ideas, plan your day, and capture your thoughts effortlessly.
Step 1: Identify Your Primary Purpose
Start by pinpointing how you plan to use your notebook. Different uses require different features:
– Daily journaling: Look for a diary or journal with lined pages and a size that fits your bag.
– Work notes: Durable notebooks with sections or grid pages can keep things organized.
– Sketching/drawing: Choose notebooks with thick, unlined or lightly dotted paper.
– Planning: Opt for planners or bullet journals with dated layouts or dot grids.
Knowing your purpose sets the foundation for the rest of your choices.
Step 2: Consider the Size and Portability
Notebooks come in many sizes, and size affects how often you carry or use them.
– Pocket-sized (A6 or smaller): Great for quick notes and portability but offer limited space.
– Medium-sized (A5): Popular size that balances space and portability; easy to carry in most bags.
– Large (A4 or letter size): Ideal for detailed notes or sketches but less portable.
Ask yourself: Will I carry this notebook everywhere? Or will it stay mostly on my desk?
Step 3: Decide on Paper Type and Quality
Paper quality impacts your writing experience and the longevity of your notes.
– Weight (gsm): Higher gsm (grams per square meter) paper is thicker and less prone to bleed-through. For pen users, aim for 80 gsm or higher.
– Texture: Smooth paper is best for fountain pens; rougher paper suits pencils and charcoal.
– Color: White paper makes colors pop; cream paper is easier on the eyes for long writing sessions.
– Bleed and feather resistance: If you use markers or fountain pens, test the paper’s resistance to prevent ink spreading.
Step 4: Choose the Right Page Layout
The way pages are ruled can influence how you use the notebook.
– Lined: Classic choice for writing and note-taking.
– Grid or graph: Useful for bullet journaling, diagrams, or precise sketches.
– Dot grid: A favorite for planners and creative layouts; it offers subtle guidance without clutter.
– Blank: Ideal for drawing, sketching, or freeform notes.
Select what encourages your preferred style of note-taking or creativity.
Step 5: Pick a Cover That Fits Your Style and Use
The cover protects your notebook and reflects your personal taste.
– Hardcover: Durable and protects pages; great if you carry your notebook around a lot.
– Softcover: Flexible and often lighter; easy to slip into a bag.
– Material: Leather, faux leather, fabric, or card stock — each offers a different look and feel.
– Design: From minimalist to colorful or patterned covers – pick one that excites you.
Also, think about whether you want a notebook with an elastic band to keep it closed or an attached pen loop.
Step 6: Consider Binding Style
Binding affects how your notebook opens and how easy it is to use.
– Sewn binding: Allows the notebook to lay flat, which is great for writing and sketching.
– Spiral or wire-bound: Pages turn easily and can fold back, but may be less durable.
– Glue binding: Often found in cheaper notebooks; some may not lay flat or hold pages as securely.
Choose what feels comfortable and fits your use case.
Step 7: Look for Extra Features
Some notebooks include extras that might be useful:
– Page numbers and indexes: Helpful for organization and quick reference.
– Perforated pages: Easy to tear out notes or sketches cleanly.
– Pockets: Handy for storing notes, receipts, or mementos.
– Bookmark ribbons: Mark your place quickly.
Decide if any of these extras might improve your experience.
Step 8: Try Before You Buy (When Possible)
If you can, visit a stationery store to feel the paper, test how your favorite pen writes on it, and check the notebook’s size and weight in person. This can save you from buying notebooks you won’t use.
Step 9: Start Small and Adjust
It’s okay to experiment! If you’re new to journaling or note-taking, start with an affordable notebook to find what works. As you learn your preferences, you can invest in higher-quality notebooks that keep you inspired.
Bonus Tips: How to Stick to Using Your Notebook
– Keep it visible: Place your notebook somewhere easy to access.
– Set a routine: Write a little each day or schedule dedicated time.
– Personalize your notebook: Use stickers, drawings, or tabs to make it feel inviting.
– Pair with favorite tools: Use pens or pencils you enjoy to make writing pleasurable.
Conclusion
Choosing a notebook you’ll actually use requires understanding your habits and preferences. By considering your purpose, size, paper, cover, binding, and extras, you can find the perfect notebook to support your creativity and productivity. Remember, the best notebook is one that you look forward to opening every day!
Happy writing!