Lined, Dotted, or Plain: Which Journal Layout Fits You Best?
Journaling is a way to clear your mind by putting your thoughts down on paper. It’s a private space where you can vent, plan your day, or sort through your feelings. But if you’re just starting out, the hardest part can be choosing a layout. It can feel overwhelming when you see all the options and have no idea which one to choose.
Whether you need the structure of lines or the total freedom of a blank page, choosing a layout is really just about figuring out how your brain likes to work. Let’s break down the three main styles of journal notebooks so you can stop overthinking and start writing.
3 Journal Layouts You Should Know
1. Lined Page Journals
Similar to common notebooks, a lined page journal has pre-printed lines that help organize your writing. It’s great for students taking notes, planners organizing tasks, or anyone who prefers a neat notebook layout.
What makes lined pages easy to use for journaling beginners is their simplicity. You don’t have to decide where to start or how to space things out. The lines guide your writing, making it easy to stay on track without worrying about spacing or layout.
Brands like Veco for compact note-taking or Limelight’s ruled notebooks for school and work offer practical options for different needs. Check them out:
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2. Dotted Page Journals
Dotted page journals feature a faint grid that provides a balance between structure and freedom. It works well for people who enjoy flexibility without the pressure of a fully blank page. You are free to use each page as a habit tracker or brainstorming space, perfect for Type A planners and creatives.
Dotted notebooks from SM Stationery feature durable, thicker paper suitable for a variety of layouts. Overall, dotted journals are a versatile choice for those who appreciate structure but want the freedom to explore their ideas.
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3. Plain or Blank Page Journals
Plain or blank page journals have no lines or rules, allowing for complete freedom in how you express yourself. This style works beautifully for sketching, visual journaling, mind maps, or expressive writing that doesn’t follow straight lines.
For creatives and hobbyists, plain pages offer room to explore without interruption. Once you overcome any hesitation about starting, plain pages can be liberating and inspiring. Check out these blank journals at SM Stationery:
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How Your Journal Match Your Writing Habits
When it comes to journaling, how you write often matters more than what you write. Some people sit down with a clear intention, ready to express their thoughts. Others prefer to jot down quick ideas between classes, meetings, or during their commute. By choosing a journal style that fits your writing habits, you can make the experience feel supportive and enjoyable instead of stressful.
Consider how you usually write. If you like to get your thoughts down quickly without worrying about spacing or alignment, a structured page can help you maintain your flow. On the other hand, if your ideas tend to bounce around, a more flexible layout lets you capture those thoughts freely. Many people give up on journaling not because of a lack of motivation, but because the format doesn't match their creative style.
Don't forget the emotional side of journaling, too. Some page layouts feel comforting, especially when life gets hectic or stressful. Others can be playful and encouraging, sparking creativity and exploration. When your journal fits your natural writing habits, it transforms from a chore into a refreshing way to reset and recharge anytime you need it.
Read more: Find Your Flow: 6 Journaling Styles for Self-Reflection & Growth
How to Choose a Journal Format Based on Your Daily Routine
Your routine says a lot about which journal notebook to use. If your days are packed and your notes are mostly functional, a simple lined journal helps. That’s why many students and planners lean toward familiar structures that don’t slow them down.
For beginners in journaling, pressure is often the biggest hurdle. The idea of doing things “correctly” can stop people from starting at all. Choosing a dotted journal notebook lowers that barrier.
Creative routines tend to shift from day to day. Some moments call for words, others for sketches or loose diagrams. Having space that adapts to those changes makes it easier to return to your notebook regularly. A blank journal notebook becomes a flexible companion that grows alongside your habits.
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Routine Type |
Journal Format |
Best Used For |
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Functional & Fast-Paced |
Lined |
Rapid note-taking, daily logs, and structured lists. |
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Beginner & Experimental |
Dotted |
Bullet journaling, habit tracking, and learning layouts. |
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Creative & Artistic |
Blank |
Sketching, mind-mapping, and unconstrained flow. |
Read more: A Beginner’s Guide to Using a Planner Without Overcomplicating It
Beyond the Pages: What Else Makes a Journal Worth Using
While the design of a journal notebook influences your choice, the thickness and quality of the paper also play a role in enhancing your journaling experience. The feel of the paper can greatly influence how often a journal is used and the overall satisfaction with the writing process.
Thicker pages offer a more durable surface that can withstand frequent use. It’s the ideal choice for those who write regularly or engage in long journaling sessions in their day. High-quality journal paper provides a surface that lessens pen ink from bleeding through, allowing for a smoother writing experience regardless of the pen or ink you use.
Ultimately, investing in a journal with superior paper quality can make all the difference in encouraging creativity and consistent use.
Read more: Find Your Flow: The Best Type of Pens for Every Handwriting Style
Finding the Right Journal at SM Stationery
One advantage of shopping in a well-curated space is seeing variety side by side. SM Stationery carries a range of journal notebooks, making it easier to compare styles in person or browse confidently online without feeling overwhelmed.
Lined options from Veco and Limelight are perfect for neat and structured writing. Dotted notebooks from Maruman offer freedom for your drawing and visual expression. Blank journals from SM Stationery provide an open canvas for your thoughts and ideas.
Choosing a journal isn’t about finding the perfect notebook. It’s about finding one that fits how you think today. Your needs may change, and that’s fine. The best journal is the one you keep opening, the one that feels easy to return to, and the one that quietly supports your routine without demanding too much from you.
Visit SM Stationery online for school and office supplies or visit an SM Store near you! Follow SM Stationery on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok for the latest collections, promos, and events.
You can also drop by SM Stationery’s first standalone store—Station by SM at SM Fairview for more options. Follow Station by SM on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok. Order from our Stationery Specialist through our online order form or call 0917-8STATIO (0917-8782846).
