Notebooks aren’t just for recording information — they’re reflections of who we are. The way you take notes reveals your personality, thinking process, and even your approach to life. Some people thrive in beautifully structured, minimalist pages, while others let creativity flow in vibrant, messy scribbles. Neither is right or wrong — both can be powerful tools for learning, planning, and creating.
So, which style do you lean toward: messy or minimalist?
The Messy Note-Taker
Messy note-taking is less about order and more about expression. If this is your style, your notebook might be full of:
- Half-finished sentences, doodles, arrows, and symbols.
- Jumbled thoughts written as they come to mind.
- Multiple colours, sticky notes, or even taped-in scraps.
Why It Works
- Creativity Boost: A messy notebook encourages free thinking and unfiltered ideas.
- Memory Recall: Doodles and sketches help you remember concepts visually.
- Flexibility: No need to follow rigid systems — your notes grow organically.
Challenges
- Harder to find specific information later.
- Can feel overwhelming if you crave order.
The Minimalist Note-Taker
Minimalist note-taking is all about clarity and focus. If this is your style, your notebook might feature:
- Clean pages with structured bullet points.
- Simple headings and consistent layouts.
- One or two pen colours at most, no distractions.
Why It Works
- Efficiency: Easy to review notes quickly.
- Professional Look: Perfect for meetings, study sessions, or planning.
- Less Overwhelm: A tidy system creates calm and focus.
Challenges
- Can feel too rigid or uninspiring for creative brainstorming.
- May discourage spontaneous ideas if you’re focused on neatness.
Which Style Is Right for You?
Here’s the secret: you don’t have to be only one. Many people blend the two. For example, you might:
- Use a minimalist style for work and productivity.
- Embrace messy, creative pages for personal journaling or brainstorming.
The real key is self-awareness. Ask yourself:
- Do I feel energized or stressed when I look at my notes?
- Do my notes help me use the information later?
- Am I capturing both structure and creativity in a way that works for me?
How to Experiment with Your Style
If you’re unsure where you fall, try this:
- Dedicate two spreads in your notebook — one for messy notes, one for minimalist notes.
- Compare after a week — which felt easier, more enjoyable, or more effective?
- Refine your hybrid style — combine the strengths of both.
The Notebook That Matches Any Style
Whether you’re a messy brainstormer, a minimalist planner, or a mix of both, the right notebook matters. A high-quality, durable notebook gives you the freedom to experiment with your style without worrying about ink bleeding, flimsy paper, or covers that wear down.
At Cork & Co, we created the Viviella Vegan Leather Notebook to be your companion in both creativity and clarity. Its smooth pages and premium design make it the perfect space to capture your unique note-taking style.
Final Thoughts
Messy vs. minimalist isn’t a competition — it’s a spectrum. Your notebook should serve you, not the other way around. Embrace the style that feels natural, and don’t be afraid to mix it up depending on the context. After all, the beauty of a notebook is that every page is a fresh start.
