Choosing a notebook sounds simple, but with so many options available, it’s easy to end up with one that stays unused on your shelf. Whether you want a notebook for journaling, planning, sketching, or note-taking, finding the right one can make a big difference in how often you use it. In this post, we’ll explore practical tips and factors to consider when choosing a notebook you’ll actually use.
Understand Your Purpose
Before browsing the aisles or online shops, think about how you plan to use your notebook. Different purposes call for different features.
Common notebook uses:
– Journaling: Daily reflections, gratitude lists, or mood tracking
– Planning: To-do lists, calendars, goal setting
– Work or School Notes: Lectures, meetings, project plans
– Sketching and Drawing: Art, doodling, visual ideas
– Creative Writing: Stories, poems, brainstorming
Defining your main purpose helps narrow down the notebook styles, paper types, and sizes that will suit you best.
Decide on the Right Size
Notebook sizes vary widely—from pocket-sized to large sketchbooks. Consider where and how you’ll use your notebook.
– Pocket size (A6 or smaller): Portable, easy to carry everywhere, but limited writing space
– A5 or Medium: Balanced size, fits most bags and provides ample writing area
– A4 or Large: Great for work, art, or lengthy notes but less portable
If you tend to write on the go, a smaller size might encourage more consistent use. For desk work, a larger notebook could feel more comfortable.
Choose the Paper Type and Quality
Paper quality affects your writing experience and the types of pens or pencils you can use.
Key considerations:
– Weight (gsm): Higher gsm means thicker paper that resists bleed-through. For example, 70-80 gsm is standard, while 90+ gsm is better for fountain pens or markers.
– Texture: Smooth paper is ideal for writing, while textured or heavier paper suits sketching or mixed media.
– Lined, dotted, grid, or plain: Choose based on your writing style or planning needs.
If you plan to use fountain pens or markers, look for notebooks with bleed-resistant paper.
Binding Style Matters
How your notebook opens and stays flat can affect usability.
– Spiral-bound: Opens flat easily; pages can be turned all the way around. Good for sketching and note-taking.
– Perfect bound (glued spine): Sleek appearance but may not lie flat easily.
– Thread-sewn: Durable, lays fairly flat, often found in high-quality journals.
– Disc-bound: Allows page removal and rearrangement, customizable.
Choose a binding style that matches how you want to work with your notebook.
Cover and Durability
Your notebook should withstand your lifestyle so you’ll want to keep it with you.
– Hardcover: Offers more protection, ideal for daily carry or long-term use.
– Softcover: Lightweight and flexible, easier to store but less protective.
– Water-resistant or leather covers: Durable options for those who want extra protection and style.
Consider whether you’ll be tossing your notebook in a bag, or keeping it mostly at a desk.
Additional Features to Consider
Some extra elements might enhance your notebook experience:
– Page numbers: Helpful for organized note-taking or journaling.
– Index or table of contents: Useful for work or school notes.
– Pre-printed calendars or planners: Perfect for those aiming to track dates and appointments.
– Pockets: For storing receipts, notes, or stickers.
– Pen holder: Keeps your writing tool handy.
– Elastic closure: Helps keep your notebook securely closed and pages protected.
Choose features that align with your habits.
Test Before You Commit
If possible, visit a store to physically handle notebooks before buying.
– Flip through pages to check paper quality and feel.
– Open the notebook fully to see if it lies flat.
– Write with your favorite pen to test for bleed or feathering.
Testing helps avoid disappointment and ensures your choice will meet your expectations.
Personalize Your Selection
Sometimes, the motivation to use a notebook comes from how much you enjoy it.
– Choose a cover design or color you love.
– Add stickers, washi tape, or labels to make it uniquely yours.
– Combine your notebook with a pen or pencil you like using.
When you feel connected to your notebook, you’re more likely to use it regularly.
Make It a Habit
Finally, even the best notebook won’t help if it stays on the shelf. Set simple routines:
– Keep your notebook visible on your desk or in a bag.
– Dedicate a few minutes daily or weekly to write, plan, or doodle.
– Use your notebook for one habit at a time, such as jotting down three things you’re grateful for each morning.
The more you use it, the more valuable it becomes.
Summary
Choosing a notebook you’ll actually use comes down to:
– Knowing your primary purpose
– Picking a comfortable size
– Selecting paper and binding that suit your writing tools and style
– Considering durability and extra features
– Testing notebooks before purchase
– Personalizing and building a habit around its use
By taking these steps, you’ll find a notebook that’s not just beautiful but also a practical companion for your thoughts, plans, and creativity. Happy writing!