Joybuy Insights

Notebook and planner: how to choose the right format for writing, planning and studying

A notebook or planner can accompany you to lessons, meetings, on the train or during a journalling session. Yet behind this seemingly straightforward purchase lie a few potential pitfalls: paper that is too thin, an impractical format, poorly designed binding or a planner that becomes unusable a few months after purchase.

To avoid unnecessary spending, it is better to compare the features that really matter rather than focusing only on the cover, colours or marketing claims.

Common pitfalls before buying

1. Confusing the number of pages with the actual capacity

A product listing may show a high number of pages without specifying whether this refers to single-sided pages or sheets. So check both details. For example, a notebook with 80 sheets generally provides 160 usable pages.

2. Choosing a format without considering portability

An A5 notebook provides enough room for lessons, meetings and detailed lists, but takes up more space in a bag. By contrast, an A6 or pocket notebook slips easily into almost any space, at the expense of a smaller writing area. The A7 format is best suited to quick notes and short lists.

3. Overlooking the paper and binding

A higher paper weight can improve writing comfort, but it is not enough on its own to determine how the notebook can be used. Also check the ruling, grid, paper shade and binding strength. A spiral notebook opens easily flat, while a glued or stapled notebook is often more compact in a folder.

Key criteria to check when making the right choice

Format: A5, A6 or pocket notebook

  • A5, approximately 14.8 × 21 cm: suitable for timetables, meeting notes, journalling and lesson notes.
  • A6, approximately 10.5 × 14.8 cm: a good compromise between portability and writing space.
  • A7: a very compact format for reminders, to-do lists and ideas to jot down on the go.
  • Pocket notebook: ideal if the product needs to stay in a jacket, small bag or pencil case.

The right format therefore depends on how much text you need to write and where you intend to use the notebook. For school or the office, A5 is generally the most comfortable. For occasional note-taking, A6 helps keep things compact.

Paper: ruling, grids and paper weight

Ruled paper is suitable for everyday writing and lists. Squared paper makes it easier to create tables, diagrams, graphs or calculations. For a personal journal or creative notebook, ruled pages provide structure for written content, while blank pages are better suited to drawing.

Paper weight should, however, be interpreted with care. The products featured here include notebooks using 70 to 100 g/m² offset paper. 100 g/m² paper is more substantial than 70 g/m² paper, but the result also depends on the ink and the pressure applied to the nib. If you write with a fountain pen, check the manufacturer's information and test it on a page before filling the notebook.

Binding and practical details

An elastic closure keeps the notebook shut in a bag. A bookmark lets you instantly find the last page you used. A pen loop is also useful for keeping your notebook and writing instrument together.

For an undated planner, examine the internal layout: monthly pages, weekly pages, space for notes and a customisable start page. This type of planner lets you start at any time, but you will need to enter the dates yourself.

Our selection by user profile

Recommended for : Beginners on a budget
M&G Meeboki Spiral Notebooks, 4 Pack A7 Top Flip Notebooks

M&G Meeboki, pack of 4 A7 top-bound spiral notebooks

Why this choice suits this profile : This pack lets you divide reminders, lists, ideas and lesson notes between several compact notebooks, without having to carry a bulky notebook.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The A7 format and four-pack reduce the risk of ending up with a notebook that is too bulky for simple notes.

Main benefit and key features

4 notebooks, 50 sheets per notebook, squared paper and top-bound spiral binding.

Recommended for : Premium stationery enthusiasts
MOLESKINE Casa Batlló Large Ruled Notebook

MOLESKINE Casa Batlló, large ruled notebook

Why this choice suits this profile : Its Casa Batlló-inspired hard cover and thoughtful details are ideal for anyone who wants to keep a work or journalling notebook for the long term.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The elastic closure, bookmark and lie-flat opening prevent the pages from closing or making notes difficult to find.

Main benefit and key features

100 g/m² ivory ruled paper, inner pocket and binding that opens to 180 degrees.

Recommended for : Specific uses and intensive users
Jubiluu A5 Undated Hardcover Planner

Jubiluu A5, undated hard-cover planner

Why this choice suits this profile : Students, freelancers and professionals can start planning their weeks without waiting for the beginning of a new year or term.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The undated monthly and weekly layout prevents pages being wasted when a traditional planner starts part-way through the year.

Main benefit and key features

A5 format, 224 pages, 100 g/m² offset ruled paper, monthly and weekly pages.

Recommended for : Organised pupils and families
OXFORD Easybook Oceanis Seyès Notebooks

OXFORD Easybook Oceanis, pack of 3 Seyès notebooks

Why this choice suits this profile : With its 17 × 22 cm format and Seyès ruling, this pack is suited to common school use in France, from homework to classroom exercises.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The pack of three notebooks makes it possible to plan for several subjects and reduce separate purchases during the school year.

Main benefit and key features

3 notebooks, 96 pages per notebook, Seyès ruling and 17 × 22 cm format.

Accessories to complement your notebook

A notebook becomes more versatile when paired with the right writing tools. The M&G multicolour ballpoint pen with a 0.7 mm tip lets you distinguish between priorities or subjects without carrying several pens. For diagrams and precise annotations, a 0.5 mm mechanical pencil provides fine, consistent lines.

Pastel highlighters are ideal for lessons, administrative documents and bullet journals. Still, check the tip width and type of ink to help prevent smudging. When buying school supplies, also check the quantity included: a pack can be more convenient when it needs to be shared by several people.

FAQs about notebooks and planners

Which format should you choose for a daily notebook?

A6 is suitable for reminders, lists and short notes. A5 offers more space for planning a week, writing meeting notes or keeping a personal journal. The A7 format is best reserved for very quick annotations.

Does an undated planner really last 18 months?

The “18 months” description indicates the capacity provided by the layout, not a compulsory period of use. As the pages are not linked to fixed dates, you can start later or leave certain periods unused. The actual duration therefore depends on how often you write.

How can you keep a notebook in good condition?

Store it in a dry place, protect it from moisture and avoid putting strain on the binding. A faux-leather or fabric cover can be cleaned with a soft, slightly damp cloth, without using harsh products. Small components such as elastic bands and bookmarks should be kept out of reach of children under 3 years of age.

Looking for more options ?

We have put together a complete, real-time-updated list of products that fully meet these strict selection criteria and European safety regulations.