The short answer
A5 is the size most people choose for a bullet journal. It is roomy enough for a weekly or daily spread and still fits in most bags. If you need something more portable, A6 is the usual step down. If you want more writing space and mostly work at a desk, B5 and A4 or Letter are the common step up.
Common bullet journal sizes
| Size | Approx. dimensions | Typical use |
|---|---|---|
| A6 / pocket | 105 x 148 mm (about 4.1 x 5.8 in) | Carry anywhere, quick notes |
| A5 | 148 x 210 mm (about 5.8 x 8.3 in) | All-round, the most common choice |
| B5 | about 176 x 250 mm (about 6.9 x 9.8 in) | Larger spreads, planning |
| A4 / US Letter | A4: 210 x 297 mm; Letter: 8.5 x 11 in | Desk use, heavy note-taking |
Brands round and label sizes differently, and some “A5” notebooks are slightly smaller or larger than the standard. Check the product measurements if exact size matters to you.
A5
A5 is the default for good reason. A single page holds a daily log or a decent-sized habit tracker, and a two-page spread is comfortable for a week. Notebook makers produce more A5 dotted options than any other size, so you will have the widest choice of paper, covers, and prices. The main downside is that a full A5 notebook can feel bulky in a small bag.
A6 and pocket sizes
A pocket notebook is easy to carry and encourages quick entries. The trade-off is space. Weekly spreads become cramped, and trackers need to be simple. Many people use a pocket-size journal as a secondary notebook for lists and notes, or pair it with a larger planner. If you like the idea of a smaller, modular format, you might also look at a traveler’s notebook setup.
B5
B5 gives you noticeably more room on each page. Our journal notebook sizes chart compares it with the other A and B sizes. It suits people with larger handwriting, anyone who likes to draw or add decoration, and those who plan in detail. It is less convenient to carry, and a smaller range of notebooks is made in this size.
A4 and US Letter
These are best thought of as desk journals. They suit people who do a lot of note-taking, meeting notes, or project planning in one place. They are heavy to carry, and a large page can feel empty if you only keep short lists.
Choosing by how you use it
Ask yourself a few practical questions:
- Will it travel with you every day? Pick A5 or smaller.
- Do you write large or like to sketch? Consider B5, or A5 with wider dot spacing.
- Do you mostly journal at a desk? B5 or A4 may be comfortable.
- Do you plan to use printed templates or stickers? Check that they fit the page size. If you print on standard paper, see whether notebook paper is letter size.
Your handwriting and the notebook’s grid also matter. A smaller page with widely spaced dots leaves few boxes across, so read our guide to bullet journal dot spacing before you commit. For model suggestions in the most popular sizes, see how to choose a bullet journal notebook.
The official Bullet Journal notebook and other formats
Bullet Journal, the brand associated with the method’s creator Ryder Carroll, sells its own official notebook. It is in an A5-style format. Details such as page counts and layout change between editions, so check the official site for current specifications. Many other makers produce dotted notebooks in the same size, and none is required to use the method. Any notebook and pen will work.
Common questions
How big is a standard size journal? There is no single standard, but A5 (about 148 x 210 mm) is the most common size for bullet journals.
What are bullet journals called? The most common names are bullet journal, bujo (a shortened form), and dot journal, because many people use dotted paper.
Which size is best for beginners? A5 is a safe starting point. You can switch sizes later once you know how you use the journal.