Have you ever wondered about the difference between a writer’s journal and a writer’s notebook? Or how best to use one versus the other?

Because the writer’s journal and the writer’s notebook are two different implements. With two different purposes that can improve your writing, which I’ll explain.

I first started thinking about the notebook/journal question while working on my recent newsletter. I’d written of two writerly “celebrations” in June: Ballpoint Pen Day (6/10) and National Typewriter Day (6/23). That reminded me how much I love the old-school tools of the trade. And what tools go shockingly well with ballpoint pens? (Preferably ones with blue ink because blue makes me happy. 😉) Why notebooks and journals, of course.

Even though I’m definitely old school, I didn’t use a typewriter often. I grew up in the transition years between typewriter, word processor, and computer, none of which I had quick access to back in the day. My writing instruments of choice, then and now, are pen and paper. And you’ll find them in close proximity to me pretty much everywhere I go.

So, what’s the difference between the writer’s notebook and the journal? And how can you best use them to great effect? Both are invaluable for writing and thought processing.

In the simplest meaning, a writer’s notebook is the place for ideas, writing snippets, scene information, plot suggestions, and all sorts of other helpful details that can be used in any and all types of your writing for the public.

The notebook is an idea book where anything you encounter can be jotted down for future reference and use.

It also can be a place for business ideas, marketing info, blog suggestions, and other craft-related work.

The journal, on the other hand, is a more personalized place to unleash your creativity.

A private space, safe from the need to share with the world, where you can let your thoughts run free. Your stream-of-consciousness home where things don’t have to make sense. And there’s no one to censor you. Journaling is a great way to express yourself with art, too, not just words. And with color, when you feel so inclined.

If you’re like a lot of people, your journal might be a very extraordinary snapshot into your personal creative process and thoughts. But you certainly don’t have to be a “creative” to enjoy and benefit from journaling. The calming effect of keeping a journal or diary has been shown repeatedly. Here’s a link to an old post of mine where I go more in-depth on journaling and how it can help destress and focus you.

And you don’t have to be a list-making fool like me to benefit from notetaking. As I mentioned, I usually have at least one notebook with me at all times. (At the moment, I have six on my desk within easy reach! Different purposes, of course!) And another notebook lives in my purse, along with my pen and a Sharpie, so I’m good to go at all times.

I keep a separate journal, as well, for all those private thoughts and feelings. I’m a big fan. My current one includes a mostly-daily gratitude practice, too, which I’ve found very helpful. For the most part, I keep only one journal at a time. Occasionally, though, I’ll tote along a strictly-travel journal to keep track of the amazing trips, vacations, and sights that I’d like to recall in detail.

If you’re interested in reading a bit more, while poking around the internet, I came across two articles on writers’ journals and notebooks. The first I skimmed gave the author’s take on the differences between the two formats. This second post offered suggestions specifically for the notebook. (I have to admit, when I glanced over #6, I thought it said to add duct tape and scissors! I immediately thought it was a tip on planning a murder for your novel!! Doh! It wasn’t. 😉 Curse of the mystery-writer’s mind.)

Before I wrap up this post, here’s a link to a great and thorough article from an old fave, Writers Digest, by Ran Walker, about the benefits of writing longhand. Love this.

By the way, though I don’t have easy access to it, I love knowing there’s still a typewriter in the family: Grandma’s Smith-Corona is back in NYC, being well cared for. <3

So, as I head back to my notebooks (spiral bound, to lay flat!), I’ll leave you with a question: how do you prefer to write? With a blue Pilot G2, perhaps? 😉 I’d love to hear from you with your thoughts, so please leave a comment below or send a quick email to: carolyn@carolyngreeley.com. Until then, Happy Writing and Reading!