Back-to-school season is just around the corner, and with it, the endless chore of the school supply list. At the top of the must-have list, especially for middle and high school, is the 24x32 all-in-one notebook. This clever format, which includes its own protective cover, is praised for its durability and practicality.
We'll explain how to find the perfect one and present our favourite models to help you start the school year (or your professional projects) off on the right foot.
Finding a notebook that can survive a full school year of classes, backpacks, and intensive study sessions is no small feat. Here are the key points to check before you head to the checkout.
The large-format 24x32 cm notebook has become a staple in middle and high school. Its size, slightly larger than the standard A4 (21x29.7 cm), is perfect for pasting in handouts without them sticking out. It's a major advantage for keeping your notes pristine and easy to review. It also offers ample writing space, ideal for note-taking, exercises, or diagrams.
The cover makes all the difference. For a backpack-proof notebook, nothing beats a model with a polypro (polypropylene) cover. This flexible and nearly indestructible plastic material protects the pages from wear, tear, and spills. No more buying a separate book cover: it's a significant saving of time and money.
Good paper is fundamental to an optimal writing experience. Aim for a paper weight of 90 g/m?, the gold standard set by Clairefontaine notebooks, which ensures perfect opacity and prevents ink from bleeding through the page. The large square ruling (Séyès) remains the standard in France. As for the binding, a staple-bound Clairefontaine notebook or a model with a sturdy spiral will ensure the pages don't go missing during the year.
To help make your choice easier, here are a few models that truly stand out for their design and practicality.
Why it stands out: The Koverbook is the very definition of a smart 2-in-1 notebook. It combines a 96-page staple-bound notebook with an ultra-durable, transparent polypropylene cover. The cover features two large flaps that serve as bookmarks and pockets for storing loose papers. It's an all-in-one designed for organisation and durability.
Pros:
Who it's for: The perfect companion for middle and high school students looking for a large-format notebook that can withstand the entire year. It will also appeal to university students and professionals seeking an organised and long-lasting note-taking solution.
Why it stands out: This set is all about maximum portability. Its A7 format is perfect for slipping into a pocket or a small bag. The top spiral binding allows for easy one-handed use, ideal for taking notes on the fly.
Pros:
Who it's for: For students, professionals, or anyone who needs a portable notebook to capture information on the go, as a complement to a main course notebook.
Why it stands out: This A5 notebook strikes the perfect balance between aesthetics and functionality. Its textured hardcover gives it a very professional look and excellent protection, while the twin-wire spiral ensures it lays perfectly flat. The thicker, 100 g/m? cream-coloured paper is designed to be ink-proof.
Pros:
Who it's for: For those looking for a personal journal, an elegant notebook for the office, or a beautiful writing medium for their studies, all in a highly versatile A5 format.
Not completely sold on our selection? If you're looking for other formats or binding types, don't worry.
? Explore our full selection of spiral notebooks to find the perfect fit.
This format is a must-have on school supply lists because it allows you to paste in A4 sheets handed out in class without them sticking out. This ensures a clean and well-organised notebook, which is a major asset for studying.
Absolutely. A polypro-cover notebook like the Koverbook is much more resistant than one with a standard cardboard cover. Polypropylene is a flexible plastic that stands up to water, tears, and friction in a backpack without any issues. No more replacing book covers mid-year!
Staple-binding (or saddle-stitching) is the most common: the pages are held together by staples in the centre, like on a classic staple-bound Clairefontaine notebook. It's a lightweight and cost-effective solution. Spiral binding uses a metal wire that allows the notebook to open a full 360°, which is very practical for writing on the corner of a desk. The choice comes down to your personal preference.