How to Choose a Notebook You’ll Actually Use Every Day
Choosing the right notebook might seem like a simple task, but with so many options available, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. Whether you want a notebook for journaling, work, school, or creative projects, selecting one you’ll actually use is key to staying organized and motivated. In this post, we’ll guide you through the process of choosing a notebook that fits your lifestyle and encourages consistent use.
Why the Right Notebook Matters
Having a notebook that you enjoy using makes a big difference. If it feels right in your hands and suits your purpose, you’re more likely to keep using it rather than letting it gather dust. On the other hand, the wrong notebook can discourage you from writing or organizing your thoughts, leading to wasted money and missed opportunities.
Consider Your Purpose
Before you start browsing, ask yourself what you want the notebook for. Different uses benefit from different styles and features.
1. Note-taking for Work or School
If you need a notebook for lectures, meetings, or research, prioritize durability, page layout, and size. A medium-sized notebook with ruled or grid pages can help keep your notes neat and easy to review.
2. Journaling and Reflection
For personal journaling, consider notebooks with high-quality paper and a pleasing design. Some people enjoy dot grid pages for flexibility, while others prefer lined or blank pages for freeform writing or sketching.
3. Creative Projects and Sketching
Artists and designers might want thicker, textured paper suitable for different mediums such as pen, pencil, or watercolor. Blank or lightly dotted pages work well here.
4. Planning and Organization
If your notebook will be used as a planner or bullet journal, look for dot grid notebooks to help with creating layouts and tracking goals.
Choose the Right Size and Format
Notebooks come in many sizes, each with its advantages.
– Pocket-sized (A6 or smaller): Easy to carry everywhere but limited space for lengthy notes.
– Medium (A5): A popular balance offering enough space while being portable.
– Large (A4 or letter size): Great for detailed notes or sketches but less convenient to carry.
Think about where you’ll be using your notebook most often — at your desk, on the go, or mixed-use — and pick a size that fits those situations.
Page Layout: Lined, Grid, Dot, or Blank?
The type of pages inside your notebook influences how you use it.
– Lined Pages: Ideal for straight writing like journaling or note-taking.
– Grid Pages: Help with technical drawing, math, or charts.
– Dot Grid Pages: Provide subtle guidance without the rigidity of grids or lines — popular for bullet journaling.
– Blank Pages: Perfect for sketching and freeform writing but can be challenging if you want structure.
Try out a few styles if possible to see what feels most natural.
Paper Quality and Thickness
The thickness of the paper, measured in grams per square meter (gsm), affects how well the notebook holds up to different writing tools.
– Standard paper (around 70-80 gsm) is fine for regular pen or pencil use.
– Heavier paper (90 gsm or more) is better if you like to use markers, fountain pens, or watercolor.
Also, consider if the paper is acid-free, which helps prevent yellowing over time, especially important for keepsake journals.
Binding Types: What Works Best for You?
The way a notebook is bound affects its durability and usability.
– Spiral-bound: Lies flat and allows easy flipping, but can be less durable.
– Sewn binding: Offers durability and allows the notebook to open flat but may be pricier.
– Perfect bound (glued spine): Looks sleek but might not lie flat well.
– Disc-bound: Customizable and allows adding/removing pages, good for planners.
Decide which factors matter most based on how and where you’ll use the notebook.
Cover Material and Design
The cover influences the look, feel, and protection of your notebook.
– Hardcover: Durable and protects pages well, good for frequent use.
– Softcover: Lightweight and flexible, easier to carry in bags.
– Leather or faux leather: Stylish and durable, often more expensive.
– Eco-friendly materials: For those who prefer sustainable options.
Choose a cover that you’ll enjoy seeing and touching regularly—this can boost your motivation to open your notebook.
Additional Features to Look For
Some notebooks offer extras that can enhance your experience:
– Built-in ribbons or elastic bands: Help close the notebook securely and keep your page.
– Numbered pages: Useful for indexing.
– Pocket folders: Handy for storing loose papers.
– Perforated pages: Allow easy removal of sheets.
– Page markers or tabs: Help organize content.
Consider which features will add value without making the notebook bulky or complicated.
Trial and Error: Don’t Be Afraid to Experiment
No two writers or note-takers are the same, so it’s normal to try different notebooks before finding the right one. If possible, buy inexpensive notebooks at first or purchase a sample pack with multiple styles. Over time, you’ll discover what suits your hand, writing style, and purpose best.
Tips to Ensure You Use Your Notebook Regularly
– Set a purpose: Define what you want the notebook to be for.
– Keep it visible: Store it somewhere you’ll see often.
– Schedule brief writing times: Even five minutes a day helps build a habit.
– Make it enjoyable: Use colorful pens, stickers, or doodles.
– Don’t stress about perfection: Imperfect pages are part of the journey.
Final Thoughts
Choosing a notebook you’ll actually use is a blend of understanding your needs and preferences. From size and binding to paper type and design, each factor influences your daily experience. By keeping these tips in mind, you can find a notebook that not only looks good but also becomes a trusted companion in your writing, planning, or creative process.
Happy writing!
