What you actually need
A bullet journal is a notebook organised with the method created by Ryder Carroll: short entries marked with symbols, an index, and flexible monthly, weekly, and daily pages. The method does not require a special notebook. Any notebook and pen will work, and many people start with whatever they already own. A good dedicated notebook mostly makes the experience nicer: it lies flat, it takes ink well, and the pages are numbered so an index is easy.
Bullet journaling and journaling are related but not the same. Journaling usually means writing about thoughts and experiences. Bullet journaling is closer to a planner and task system you build yourself, though many people mix in reflection. If you are unsure which you need, see journal vs notebook.
What to look for in a notebook
Paper
Paper is the biggest factor. Weight is usually given in gsm (grams per square metre). Thinner paper in the 80 to 100 gsm range is common and works fine with ballpoints, gel pens, and fine liners, but it may show ghosting (ink visible from the other side) or bleed with markers. Heavier paper in the 120 to 160 gsm range handles heavy ink and marker work better, though the notebook is bulkier. Coating and texture matter too, so a smooth finish suits fineliners and fountain pens, while some toothier paper suits pencils and watercolour.
Page type
Dotted pages are the usual choice because they guide layouts without dominating the page. Squared, lined, and blank pages are alternatives. Before you buy, check the grid; our guide to bullet journal dot spacing explains the common options.
Size
A5 is the most common size, with pocket and larger formats available. Read more in our guide to bullet journal sizes.
Binding and cover
Sewn or thread-bound notebooks usually lie flatter and tend to last. Glued (perfect) binding is cheaper but may not open as flat. Our guide to types of notebook binding compares the options in more detail. Hardcovers protect pages in a bag. Softcovers are lighter and more flexible. A lay-flat design is useful if you draw across the centre of a spread.
Useful extras
- Numbered pages and a printed index save setup time.
- Ribbon bookmarks help you jump to the current page.
- A back pocket holds loose notes or stickers.
- An elastic closure keeps pages protected.
Popular notebooks and who they suit
Notebook lineups and prices change, so check current details before buying. These are commonly recommended options and what they are known for.
| Notebook | Often chosen for |
|---|---|
| Leuchtturm1917 A5 dotted | A classic, all-round choice with numbered pages, a pre-printed index, and ribbons |
| Archer & Olive | Thick paper that holds up to markers and heavier ink |
| Scribbles That Matter | Thick paper and a pen-friendly feel, with a vegan leather cover |
| Midori MD | Minimal design and paper that many fountain pen users like |
| Budget options (such as Paperage) | Lower-cost entry with decent everyday performance |
| Bullet Journal official notebook | Designed around the method by its creator |
None of these is the single best for everybody. Reviews are a good place to check how a notebook handles the pens you own.
Choosing by use case
- Starting out and unsure: a mid-priced A5 dotted notebook with numbered pages is a safe choice. A cheaper notebook is also a perfectly fair way to try the method.
- Heavy decoration, markers, or watercolour: look for thicker paper, around 120 gsm and above, and test for ghosting.
- Fountain pens: look for smooth, well-sized paper and check reviews for feathering.
- Carrying everywhere: consider a lighter softcover or a smaller size. A modular setup can work too, as in our traveler’s notebook ideas.
- Budget-conscious: a simple notebook plus a few pens is plenty; the journal supplies list shows what is worth buying first.
- Heavy daily use: pick a durable binding and a cover that survives a bag.
Test your pens first
Before committing to a layout, draw a few lines with each pen you plan to use on the back page or inside cover. Look at the reverse side for show-through. This takes a minute and saves a lot of frustration.
Once you have a notebook
Start simple. Number the pages if they are not already, set up an index and a key, then add a future log and a monthly spread. The important bullet journal pages article walks through the order. The bullet journal key symbols guide explains how to mark entries, and these bullet journal hacks can help keep the pages organised. Those with children at home may like the homeschool bullet journal pages for planning lessons.
Common questions
What is the best blank page journal? It depends on your pens and use. For blank pages, look for the same qualities as a bullet journal: paper that suits your tools, lay-flat binding, and a size you like carrying.
What is a dot journal used for? Dotted notebooks are used for planning, to-do lists, habit tracking, sketching, and journaling, because the dots guide layouts without forcing a rigid grid.
How do I start a bullet journal? Pick a notebook, set up an index, a key, a future log, and a monthly log, then use daily pages as you need them.
Is bullet journaling still popular? Many people still use it. It is a flexible method, and you can adapt it to a minimal or a decorative style.