How to Bullet Journal in 7 Easy Steps

Between digital calendars and email reminders, keeping track of your to-do list in the internet era can quickly turn into a task of its own. ​​

Enter “bullet journaling,” an analog note-taking system designed to help you get through the day (and plan for the months ahead) using nothing more than a notebook and the pen of your choice.​

Developed by the digital product designer Ryder Carroll, bullet journaling has exploded in popularity as a powerful tool for organization and self-reflection. The system prompted a flurry of how-to guides (including Carroll’s best-selling guide, The Bullet Journal Method), media coverage and millions of #bulletjournal social media posts. ​​

Unlike traditional planners, which come with fixed layouts for the month or days of the week, Carroll’s system is all about customizing the notebook of your choice to create a flexible, personalized guidebook: Think an all-in-one calendar, to-do list and free space to record your thoughts or track everything from the week’s groceries to your travel bucket list. ​

​Here’s a step-by-step guide to getting started.

1. Stock up on supplies.​​​

To start mastering the “BuJo” basics, all you need is a notebook, pen and patience. Any notebook with blank or gridded pages — a sketchbook, your trusty Filofax or the specially designed Bullet Journal from German brand Leuchtturm1917 — can be used.​​

While super artistic page designs (the kind that feature vibrant color schemes and expert calligraphy) tend to attract attention on social media, Carroll says the method is designed to be a flexible “foundation” for whatever style people prefer, whether minimal or artistic.​

2. Learn the notation.​​

Before you start jotting things down, get familiar with an updated set of bullet points for easy task management. Carroll’s three main symbols are a bullet point (•) for tasks, an open bullet (°) for events and a dash (—) for notes. You’ll use these symbols for the building blocks of your journal, called “logs” — more on those below.​

To see more tips for starting a bullet journal, from AARP, CLICK HERE.