Choosing the right notebook might seem simple, but it’s often harder than it looks. With so many sizes, styles, and page types available, it’s easy to end up with a notebook that doesn’t quite fit your needs, leaving it unused and wasted. Whether you want a notebook for journaling, work notes, or creative projects, selecting one that suits your habits and preferences is key to ensuring you actually use it.
In this post, we’ll explore practical tips to help you choose a notebook you’ll enjoy writing in, carry around comfortably, and rely on every day.
Understand Your Purpose
Before buying a notebook, think about how you plan to use it. Answering the following questions can clarify your needs:
– What will you use the notebook for? Personal journaling, meeting notes, sketches, to-do lists, or study?
– How often will you use it? Daily, weekly, or for special projects?
– Do you prefer writing, drawing, or both?
– Will you need to carry it around regularly?
Knowing your main purpose narrows down your options and makes it easier to select the right features.
Consider the Size and Portability
Notebooks come in various sizes, and choosing one that fits your daily routine is important.
Common Sizes
– A5 (around 5.8 x 8.3 inches): A popular size that balances space and portability. Good for carrying in a bag and writing comfortably.
– A6 (around 4.1 x 5.8 inches): Compact and perfect for quick notes on the go but has limited writing space.
– A4 (around 8.3 x 11.7 inches): Larger, ideal for detailed notes or sketches but less portable.
– Custom or pocket-sized notebooks: Designed for convenience and quick use.
Tips
– If you carry the notebook daily, opt for a smaller size that fits your bag or pocket.
– A larger notebook is better if your writing often requires space or you prefer adding diagrams.
Choose the Right Paper Type and Layout
Paper quality and layout affect how enjoyable it is to write or draw in your notebook.
Paper Weight and Texture
– Weight: Measured in grams per square meter (gsm), typical notebooks use 70–120 gsm paper. Heavier paper (90 gsm and above) reduces bleed-through if you use ink pens.
– Texture: Smooth paper is great for ballpoint pens and pencils, while textured paper suits fountain pens or markers.
Page Layout Options
– Lined: Great for writing and note-taking.
– Blank: Ideal for sketching and free-form notes.
– Dot grid: Versatile for writing, drawing, and planning.
– Grid: Perfect for technical drawings or graphs.
– Combination: Some notebooks mix layouts for flexibility.
Tips
– Match the layout to your main use: lined for writing, blank for art, dot grid for mixed use.
– Try samples if possible to see what feels best.
Binding Styles and Durability
How a notebook is bound affects durability and how easy it is to write on.
Common Binding Types
– Spiral binding: Allows the notebook to lie flat or fold back easily; good for extensive writing.
– Stitched or sewn binding: Durable and can lie flat but less flexible.
– Perfect binding (glued): Has a professional look but may not open flat easily.
– Hardcover vs. softcover: Hardcover covers protect your pages better, while softcovers are lighter and flexible.
Tips
– If you want to carry the notebook everywhere, select a sturdy cover and binding.
– Spiral notebooks are practical if you often write on both sides of the page.
Consider Additional Features
Some notebooks come with features that add convenience and enhance your experience.
– Page numbers and indexes: Help keep your notes organized.
– Built-in bookmarks or elastic bands: Easy to mark your current page and keep the notebook closed.
– Pockets or folders: Useful for storing receipts, notes, or stickers.
– Perforated pages: Allow you to tear out pages neatly.
Decide which extras suit you and avoid overpaying for features you don’t need.
Test Usability Before Committing
If possible, try testing different notebooks in a store or through online reviews and videos.
– Feel the paper and cover.
– Sketch or write a few lines to check comfort.
– Check how it fits in your bag or workspace.
This hands-on experience will prevent buyer’s remorse.
Keep It Simple and Personal
Choosing a notebook is also about what motivates you to use it.
– Pick a notebook with a cover design or color that you like.
– Consider personalization options such as monogramming or stickers.
– Ensure the notebook feels inspiring rather than intimidating.
A notebook you enjoy looking at can encourage you to pick it up more often.
Tips for Maintaining Your Notebook Usage
Once you have your ideal notebook, keep it active by:
– Setting a specific time for daily or weekly writing.
– Using it for a designated purpose to avoid overwhelming.
– Keeping it accessible and visible to remind you to use it.
– Pairing it with your favorite pens and tools.
Conclusion
Selecting a notebook that you’ll actually use requires balancing your practical needs with personal preferences. Consider what you plan to do with it, how portable it needs to be, and what paper or binding suits your writing style. Don’t forget to make it enjoyable to open and use.
By choosing thoughtfully, you’ll create a trusted companion for your ideas, plans, and creativity that won’t collect dust on a shelf.
Happy writing!
