Digital Planning: Where to Start
Published: November 9, 2021
iPads and other digital tablets have changed so much of the way we do things. From how we entertain ourselves to how we study and learn. It has also given us a plethora new planner options. With so many choices, it can be overwhelming to know where to start. So this post breaks down the basics for new comers to digital planning.
WHAT IS DIGITAL PLANNING?
Digital planners are digital files (PDFs) that look and function like traditional paper planners on iPads and Android tablets when used in a note taking app (see list below). You can write in, annotate, and decorate them.
Like paper planners, they don't sync with Google Calendar. Unlike paper planners, there's an undo button.
Most digital planners also include hyperlinks for easy navigation. See the image below for an example.
Check out this blog post for some reasons to give digital planning a try.
WHAT DO YOU NEED TO GET STARTED?
A digital tablet - iPad or Android table
Apple Pencil or stylus
Digital PDF Planner
Note taking app (see below)
Optional: Digital Stickers
WHERE DO YOU FIND DIGITAL PLANNERS?
You can find a variety of digital planners in our Etsy shop here. Or do a quick search on Etsy and you'll find a large selection to choose from. There are so many choices that you're bound find something that suites you!
Important options include:
Dated or Undated
Portrait or Landscape
Dark Mode or Light Mode
Minimal Design or Illustrated
Basic planning pages only (month, week, days) or many different page options
You could also use a digital notebook and turn it into a bullet journal.
NOTE TAKING APPS
A quick list of popular note taking apps that are great for digital planning.
(Prices in US Dollars)
iOS
GoodNotes ($7.99)
ZoomNotes ($7.99)
Notability (Freemium/Subscription)
Xodo (Free)
*Apple Books (Free)
*Apple Books is included with iOS but offers limited features. It only allows you to write in a digital planner. Digital stickers, images, and sticky notes cannot be used.
Android
Noteshelf ($4.99)
Xodo (Free)
PDF Reader Pro (Freemium)
BONUS: IS DIGITAL PLANNING MORE ECO-FRIENDLY THAN PAPER PLANNING?
I've seen a lot about paperless being more eco-friendly, but the jury is still out on this one. Like so many things, it's complicated.
Yes, you are saving paper (and by extension the resources that go in to making paper). But digital tablets also consume energy and create e-waste. Digital tablets replace more than paper. They are entertainment consoles, communication devices, sketchbooks, e-readers, and more. But paper is more renewable than the materials used to create tablets.
There are a lot of considerations and no concrete answers. So be mindful of what you consume but do what works best for you and your life.
If you're interested in learning more check out this article.
INFOGRAPHIC
PIN IT FOR LATER
YOU MIGHT ALSO LIKE
Are you thinking about using a digital planner? Here are 8 reasons to give it a try.
Dark mode has been a growing trend in technology. Want to know more about it and how it ties in to digital planning? Check out this blog post.
Looking for useful apps and digital platforms to supplement your planner? From project/time management to design inspiration apps; here’s a quick list to help you get started.