How to Choose a Notebook You’ll Actually Use Every Day
Choosing a notebook might seem like a simple task, but picking one you’ll actually use requires a bit more thought. Whether you want it for jotting down ideas, organizing your schedule, or journaling, the right notebook can make a big difference in how often you reach for it. In this post, we’ll explore practical steps and tips to help you select a notebook that fits your style and needs.
Why Choosing the Right Notebook Matters
A notebook is more than just paper—it’s a tool that helps you capture thoughts, plan projects, and track goals. If your notebook doesn’t feel comfortable or inspiring, it’s easy to forget it on a shelf or drawer. Picking the right one encourages regular use and keeps your ideas flowing.
Consider Your Purpose
Before anything else, think about how you plan to use your notebook. Different uses call for different features.
Common Notebook Purposes
– Note-taking in meetings or classes: Requires a portable, easy-to-write-in notebook.
– Creative writing or journaling: May benefit from high-quality paper and a nice cover.
– Bullet journaling or planning: Often works best with dotted grids and durable binding.
– Art or sketching: Needs thicker, textured paper to handle different media.
Knowing your primary use helps narrow down your options and avoid unnecessary features.
Decide on the Size
Notebook sizes vary widely, and size affects portability and writing space.
– Pocket-size (A6 or smaller): Ultra-portable, great for quick notes on the go but limited writing space.
– Medium size (A5): The most popular size, balancing portability with enough room for writing.
– Large size (A4 or letter): Gives plenty of space, suitable for detailed notes, sketches, or planners but less convenient to carry.
Choose a size you’re comfortable carrying around and that suits your writing habits.
Pick the Right Paper Type
Paper quality impacts how enjoyable and practical your notebook is.
Paper Weight
Measured in grams per square meter (gsm), heavier paper (80+ gsm) resists ink bleed-through and feels more substantial. Lighter paper can be thinner and cheaper but may not handle fountain pens or markers well.
Paper Color
– White paper: Bright and clear but may cause eye strain for some.
– Cream or off-white paper: Softer on the eyes and often preferred for writing or journaling.
Paper Texture
Smooth paper is ideal for pens and markers to glide easily, while textured paper suits pencils and some creative uses.
Choose a Binding Style
The way your notebook is bound affects how it opens and how durable it is.
– Spiral-bound: Opens flat and allows you to fold the notebook back, perfect for note-taking.
– Perfect bound (like a paperback book): Sleek appearance but may not lay flat.
– Thread-bound or sewn binding: Durable, often lays flat, and ideal for journals.
– Disc-bound or customizable systems: Flexible and allow page removal and rearrangement.
Think about which binding feels most comfortable and practical for your use.
Decide on the Page Layout
Notebooks come in various page formats, each suited for different purposes.
– Lined: Great for writing and note-taking.
– Dotted: Popular for bullet journaling and flexible structure.
– Grid: Useful for diagrams, charts, or precise layouts.
– Blank: Ideal for sketching or creative freedom.
– Combination pages: Some notebooks mix layouts to serve multiple functions.
Choose the layout that matches how you write or create.
Evaluate the Cover and Durability
Your notebook’s cover can affect how long it lasts and how much you enjoy using it.
– Hardcover: Protects pages and offers a sturdy writing surface.
– Softcover: Lightweight and flexible but less protective.
– Water-resistant or synthetic covers: Good for carrying outside or in different environments.
Also, consider if you want a design that fits your personal style or professional environment.
Additional Features to Consider
Depending on your preferences, some extra features may enhance your notebook experience:
– Elastic closure bands keep the notebook closed and pages secure.
– Inner pockets for storing loose papers or stickers.
– Numbered pages and an index for easy reference.
– Perforated pages allow you to tear out notes cleanly.
– Ribbon bookmarks to mark your place.
Take stock of which extras feel like must-haves versus nice-to-haves.
Test Before You Commit
If possible, visit a stationery store to flip through notebooks. Feel the paper, try writing on it, and see how the size and weight feel in your hands. This hands-on approach often makes it easier to pick a notebook that feels right.
Use It and Adjust as Needed
Remember, the perfect notebook is one that fits your habits and grows with you. It’s okay to try different types until you find the right match. Once you find your ideal notebook, you’ll be more motivated to write consistently, and that’s when a notebook truly becomes a trusted companion.
Final Thoughts
Choosing a notebook is a personal decision that depends on your needs, style, and how you plan to use it. By considering purpose, size, paper, binding, layout, and features, you can find a notebook that feels less like a tool and more like a creative partner. Happy writing!
