How to Choose a Notebook You’ll Actually Use Every Day
Choosing the right notebook can feel surprisingly challenging. With so many options out there—different sizes, paper types, binding styles, and layouts—it’s easy to get overwhelmed. But picking a notebook you’ll actually use regularly comes down to understanding your personal preferences and how you intend to use it.
In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to consider so you walk away with a notebook that inspires you to write, sketch, plan, or brainstorm with ease.
Why Choosing the Right Notebook Matters
A notebook is more than just paper bound together—it’s a tool that supports your creativity, organization, and productivity. When you pick one that fits your style and needs, you’re much more likely to use it consistently. On the flip side, the wrong choice might lead to frustration or the notebook sitting untouched.
Step 1: Define Your Purpose
Before browsing notebooks, ask yourself:
– What will I use the notebook for? Writing? Sketching? Planning? Idea generation?
– Will it stay in one place or come with me on the go?
– Do I prefer to write long-form, jot quick notes, or make lists?
Answering these questions helps narrow down the type of notebook that fits your lifestyle.
Step 2: Choose the Right Size
Notebook sizes range widely—common options include:
– Pocket-sized (around 3.5” x 5.5”): Highly portable, easy to carry everywhere, but limited writing space. Great for quick notes or jotting ideas on the move.
– A5 (around 5.8” x 8.3”): Most popular size, portable yet roomy enough for detailed notes and sketches.
– A4 (8.3” x 11.7”): Larger and desk-friendly, perfect if you want more space for writing or drawing. Less convenient to carry around.
Think about whether you want your notebook to fit in a purse, backpack, or sit nicely on your desk.
Step 3: Select the Paper Type
The feel and performance of the paper is crucial:
– Ruled (lined): Ideal for writing, lists, and note-taking. Choose line spacing that suits your handwriting size.
– Blank (plain): Excellent for sketching, free-form writing, or bullet journaling. Offers flexibility.
– Dot grid: Subtle dots help with alignment but don’t interfere visually. Popular for bullet journaling or mixing writing and sketching.
– Grid (graph paper): Great for precise work, charts, or design layouts.
Also consider paper weight (measured in gsm). Heavier paper (e.g., 80-100 gsm) prevents ink bleed and feels higher quality, especially if you use fountain pens or markers.
Step 4: Decide on Binding Style
The binding affects how your notebook opens and how easy it is to write across pages:
– Spiral-bound: Allows the notebook to lie flat or fold back on itself. Good for left-handed users or those who want flexibility.
– Perfect-bound (like a paperback book): Sleek, professional look but may not lie flat fully.
– Thread-bound (stitched): Durable and often looks more elegant. Many can lay flat but check specific models.
– Disc-bound: Combines flexibility of a binder with the convenience of a notebook. You can add, remove, or rearrange pages.
Think about how you use your notebook. If taking notes while standing or moving, spiral or disc may be more convenient.
Step 5: Consider Additional Features
Certain extras might enhance your experience:
– Page numbers and index: Helpful for organization and quick referencing.
– Perforated pages: Easy to tear sheets out cleanly.
– Pocket folders inside the cover: Store loose papers, receipts, or stickers.
– Elastic closure: Keeps the notebook securely shut when carried around.
– Ribbon/bookmark: Quickly flip to your current page.
– Durable cover: Hardcovers offer protection and longevity; softcovers are lighter and more flexible.
Reflect on which of these features could make your notebook more user-friendly.
Step 6: Think About Style & Design
While function is important, you’ll be more excited to use a notebook that appeals to your aesthetic sense. Choose colors, patterns, or branding that you enjoy. Whether elegant leather, minimalist plain covers, or whimsical prints, pick something that makes you smile every time you open it.
Step 7: Test Before You Commit
If possible, visit a stationery store to physically inspect notebooks. Writing a few lines, feeling the paper quality, and testing how the notebook opens can prevent future regrets.
If buying online, read reviews and look for detailed photos. Some brands offer sample packs or smaller notebooks—consider starting there.
Step 8: Set Realistic Goals for Notebook Use
Finally, remember that any notebook is just a tool. Even the perfect notebook requires commitment to use regularly. Set achievable intentions—whether daily journaling, sporadic note-taking, or creative sketches—and your notebook will become a trusted companion.
Summary: Making Your Notebook Choice
| Step | Key Question | What to Consider |
|——————–|—————————————————–|————————————–|
| Purpose | Why do I need a notebook? | Writing, sketching, planning, journaling |
| Size | What size fits my lifestyle? | Pocket, A5, A4 |
| Paper Type | Which page style suits my work? | Lined, blank, dot grid, graph |
| Binding Style | How will I carry/use my notebook? | Spiral, perfect-bound, thread, disc |
| Features | Which extras improve usability? | Pockets, perforations, closures |
| Style & Design | Which look motivates me to use it? | Color, pattern, cover material |
Choosing a notebook is a personal journey combining practicality and pleasure. Take the time to reflect on what fits your lifestyle, and you’ll find a notebook that’s more than just stationery—it’s an invitation to capture ideas and creativity whenever inspiration strikes.
Happy notebook hunting!
