Choosing the right notebook can seem like a simple task, but many people buy one and then never use it. Whether you want a journal, planner, or sketchbook, finding a notebook that suits your style, purpose, and routine is key to making it a daily companion. This guide will walk you through factors to consider, helping you pick a notebook you’ll actually enjoy using.
Why Choosing the Right Notebook Matters
A notebook is more than just paper bound together—it’s a space for your thoughts, ideas, plans, and creativity. When the notebook matches your needs, you’re more likely to stick with it, boost your productivity, and keep your life organized.
Step 1: Identify Your Primary Use
Before buying, ask yourself what the notebook’s main purpose will be. Here are common types of notebooks and their uses:
– Journaling: Daily reflections, gratitude, or expressive writing.
– Planning: Organizing tasks, tracking goals, to-do lists.
– Note-taking: For meetings, classes, or research.
– Sketching/Drawing: Capturing ideas visually.
– Creative Writing: Stories, poetry, brainstorming.
Knowing your purpose helps narrow down the style, size, and features you need.
Step 2: Decide on the Size and Portability
Notebooks come in various sizes, each suited to different needs:
– Pocket size (A6 or smaller): Great for quick notes and carrying everywhere.
– Medium size (A5 or similar): Popular for everyday use, balances space and portability.
– Large size (A4 or bigger): Best for detailed notes, sketching, or planners at a desk.
Think about where and how you’ll use the notebook most. If you travel frequently, a smaller one might be better. For desk use, larger pages can give more freedom.
Step 3: Choose the Right Paper Type and Quality
Paper quality affects how your pen or pencil feels and whether ink bleeds through the pages.
– Weight: Paper weight is measured in gsm (grams per square meter). Heavier paper (80+ gsm) is thicker and less prone to bleed-through.
– Texture: Smooth paper suits ink pens and markers, while textured paper is nicer for pencils or charcoal.
– Color: White pages provide clear contrast, while cream or off-white paper is easier on the eyes.
If you use fountain pens or markers, look for notebooks specifically designed for them to prevent feathering and ghosting.
Step 4: Pick Your Page Layout
The type of ruling on your pages will affect your writing or drawing experience:
– Lined: Helps keep handwriting neat; great for note-taking and journaling.
– Grid or graph: Ideal for planning, bullet journaling, or drawing diagrams.
– Dot grid: Popular among bullet journalers; offers subtle guidance without being too obtrusive.
– Blank: Perfect for sketching or freeform writing.
Consider what layout suits your style and how flexible you want your notebook to be.
Step 5: Think About Binding and Cover
The binding influences durability and ease of use:
– Spiral bound: Can lay flat and fold back, convenient for writing on the go.
– Sewn or stitched: Durable and often lies relatively flat; higher quality.
– Glue bound (perfect bound): Sleek appearance but may not stay open easily.
– Disc bound: Allows pages to be added or removed, offering flexibility.
Cover choices are also important:
– Hardcover: Protects pages and gives a solid writing surface.
– Softcover: Lightweight and flexible, easier to carry but less protective.
– Material: Leather, faux leather, cloth, or cardboard—all varying in feel and durability.
Choose what feels comfortable for you and fits your lifestyle.
Step 6: Consider Extras That Enhance Use
Some notebooks come with features that can make a difference:
– Page numbers: Helpful for referencing or indexing.
– Table of contents or index pages: For easy navigation.
– Built-in pockets: For storing notes or documents.
– Bookmarks or ribbons: To mark your current page.
– Perforated pages: For easy removal.
Think about which extras might encourage you to use your notebook regularly.
Step 7: Set a Budget
Notebooks range from very affordable to quite luxurious.
– You don’t need to spend a lot to get a good-quality notebook.
– However, investing in something you love can increase your motivation to use it.
Try balancing quality, features, and price to find the best value for your needs.
Step 8: Test Before You Commit
If possible, visit a store to handle different notebooks. Notice how they feel, look at the paper quality up close, and try writing a few lines.
If buying online, read reviews to see how others experience the notebook, especially regarding paper quality and durability.
Tips to Stay Committed to Using Your Notebook
Once you have your perfect notebook, here are ways to make it a part of your daily routine:
– Keep it visible and easily accessible.
– Set a specific time each day to use it.
– Use it for multiple purposes to increase its value.
– Personalize it with stickers, drawings, or notes.
– Start small—don’t pressure yourself to fill it immediately.
Final Thoughts
Choosing a notebook is a personal decision that depends on your style, needs, and habits. By considering purpose, size, paper quality, layout, binding, and extras, you can find a notebook that motivates you to write, plan, or create regularly. Your perfect notebook isn’t just about looks—it’s about making it a useful and enjoyable tool in your daily life. Happy notebook hunting!