What a bullet journal actually is
The bullet journal method was created by designer Ryder Carroll. It is a paper-based system that combines a to-do list, calendar, notes and reflection in one notebook, using short entries (“rapid logging”) and a simple set of symbols. Because it is a method rather than a product, almost any notebook can become a bullet journal. The “best” one is the notebook that suits your pens, your budget and how much you plan to decorate.
That also answers a common question: what is the difference between journaling and bullet journaling? Traditional journaling is usually free-form writing about your thoughts and days. Bullet journaling is more structured. It uses an index, future log, monthly and daily logs, and a habit of moving unfinished tasks forward. Many people mix the two, adding reflective writing to their logs.
What to look for in a bullet journal
Paper weight and ghosting
Paper weight is measured in gsm (grams per square metre), and our paper weight guide explains how gsm and pound ratings compare. Heavier paper generally resists show-through better, which matters if you use markers, brush pens or fineliners with wet ink. Thin paper is not necessarily bad. Many people like the feel of lighter paper and accept some shadowing on the reverse side. Thicker paper is often chosen by people who colour, letter or use light watercolour, although very wet techniques can still make it cockle.
Two terms are worth separating. Ghosting is when ink shows faintly through from the other side. Bleed-through is when ink actually soaks through and marks the next page. A notebook can ghost slightly without bleeding. If you want to compare pens and paper in more detail, see our guide to the best pen for bujo.
Dot grid, lined, blank or grid
Dot grid is the most common choice because the dots guide lists, tables and headers without adding heavy lines to the page. Lined paper suits note-heavy journals. Squared grid helps with charts and trackers, and blank pages suit sketching and free layouts. If you are unsure, dot grid is the safest starting point.
Built-in index, page numbers and ribbons
The method relies on an index and numbered pages so you can find entries later. Some notebooks print page numbers and an index at the front. Others leave them blank, which is more flexible but means numbering pages yourself. Ribbon bookmarks and a back pocket are handy for marking the current month or storing loose items.
Size and binding
A5 is a popular size because it is large enough for weekly layouts but still portable. Larger formats give more room to draw, and smaller ones fit a bag more easily. Look for a binding that lies reasonably flat, since you will write close to the gutter. Hardcovers protect pages in a bag, while softcovers are lighter and often cheaper.
Common types of notebooks people choose
Different reviewers group notebooks in similar ways. These categories are a useful way to think about the market without chasing a specific model:
- The classic option: A numbered, indexed, dot-grid notebook with ribbons and a pocket. The Leuchtturm1917 line, including the edition made in collaboration with Ryder Carroll, is commonly named here.
- Thick paper for art: Notebooks with about 160gsm paper, such as those from Archer & Olive, are popular with people who use markers and brush pens.
- Fountain-pen friendly: Smooth, coated paper such as in Rhodia and Midori MD notebooks tends to be favoured by fountain-pen users.
- Budget options: Plain dot-grid notebooks from mainstream stationery brands are a reasonable way to try the method before investing.
Specifications and prices change between editions, so check the current product page before buying. For a closer look at specs and test methods, read our guide to the best journal for bullet journal setups.
What is a dot journal used for?
A dot journal is simply a notebook with a grid of small dots on each page. People use it for bullet journaling, but also for planning, sketching, lettering practice, habit tracking and general notes. The dots give structure without the visual weight of lines, so you can draw boxes, columns or free-form spreads as needed.
Are blank page journals a good fit?
If you are wondering what the best blank page journal is, the honest answer is that it depends on how you work. Blank pages suit sketching and free-form layouts. They can be harder if you like tidy lists and tables, because you will need a ruler or guide sheet to keep things straight. Many people keep a dot-grid notebook for planning and a blank one for drawing.
Matching the notebook to your pens
Choose your notebook with your most-used pen in mind. Fineliners and gel pens usually behave well on mid-weight paper. Brush pens, alcohol markers and heavy ink need thicker paper. Fountain pens depend on both paper coating and ink, as covered in our guide to the best paper for fountain pen writing. Test a page with your pens before committing, or buy a small notebook first.
How to start with a bullet journal
You do not need an elaborate setup. A simple start looks like this:
- Number your first pages and reserve a couple for an index.
- Add a future log for the next few months.
- Add a monthly page with a calendar and task list.
- Use daily pages for short bulleted entries: tasks, events and notes.
- At the end of the month, review unfinished tasks and decide what to move forward and what to drop.
Decoration is optional. If you want themed layouts, our pages on February bullet journal ideas and Valentine’s Day bullet journal ideas show how a simple theme can work.
Digital or paper?
A bullet journal is designed around pen and paper, but some people prefer apps or tablets. Both can work, and some people use both. We compare the trade-offs in journaling on computer vs paper.
Quick decision guide
- Mostly writing with fineliners or gel pens: a mid-weight dot-grid notebook with numbered pages is usually enough.
- Lots of markers, brush pens or colour: look for thicker paper.
- Fountain pens: look for smooth, ink-friendly paper, and test it first.
- Tight budget: start with an inexpensive dot-grid notebook and upgrade once you know your habits.
- Not sure: buy one reliable A5 dot-grid notebook and use it for a couple of months.