Digital Planning 101: Everything You Need to Know to Get Started

Digital Planning 101: Everything You Need to Know to Get Started

Ever feel like your to-do lists are everywhere, your schedule is a mess, and paper planners aren’t just cutting it?

Digital planning makes organizing your life easier, more flexible, and completely customizable, whether you’re using an iPad, tablet, or laptop.

If you’re new to digital planning, this guide will show you exactly how to start (without feeling overwhelmed).

 

🖱️What is Digital Planning?

Digital planning is exactly what it sounds like—using a device, like an iPad or tablet, to plan, organize, and track your life.

Instead of a traditional paper planner, you use a digital version that mimics the experience of handwriting but with the added benefits of flexibility, customization, and convenience.

With a digital planner, you can:

  • ✏️ Write, erase, and rearrange plans without the mess of paper.

  • 🔗 Use hyperlinks to navigate between pages instantly.

  • 🔖 Copy, paste, and duplicate templates to suit your needs.

  • 📲 Sync across multiple devices, so your plans are always accessible.

Digital planning combines the best of both worlds: the tactile feel of handwriting with the efficiency of digital tools.

 

Why Digital Planning Works for Different Planning Styles

Traditional paper planners often have rigid formats that don’t work for everyone. Some people thrive on structured daily schedules, while others prefer open-ended flexibility. With digital planning, you can create a system that fits your unique lifestyle.

Here’s why digital planning is a great alternative:

  • ✨ Customizable layouts: Unlike paper planners, where you're stuck with pre-set pages, digital planners let you choose or design templates that work for your specific needs.

  • 🗓️ Adaptability for different days: Some days require detailed time blocking, while others just need a simple to-do list. With digital planning, you can switch between layouts without wasting pages.

  • 🫧 Less clutter, more organization: No more carrying multiple planners, sticky notes, or notebooks—everything is stored neatly in one place.

  • 🌿 Eco-friendly and cost effective: Instead of buying a new planner every year, you can use a digital planner indefinitely, reducing paper waste.

 

What You Need to Get Started

1. Device options:

iPad, Samsung Tablet, Surface Pro (or even a laptop for Notion users)

Tablets work best if you prefer handwriting, while laptops are great for text-based planning.

2. Best Apps for Digital Planning:

  • GoodNotes → Best for handwritten planning and PDFs.

  • Notability → Ideal for handwriting with added audio recording features.

  • Notion → Best for structured databases and text-based planning.

3. Accessories (Optional but Useful)

  • Apple Pencil or Stylus for handwriting → Essential for handwriting in apps like GoodNotes or Notability.

  • Matte Screen Protector → Helps create a paper-like feel for a more natural writing experience. 

Choosing the Right Digital Planner for You

Your planner should match how you like to plan. Choosing the right format makes planning easier and more effective.

  • Yearly Planners - Includes everything you need: goal-setting pages, monthly and weekly spreads, daily pages, notes, and a habit tracker for a complete planning system.

  • Weekly Planner - Offers two layout options: one for structured schedules and another for flexible planning, so you can choose what works best for you.

  • Daily Planners - Perfect for those who plan day by day, with space for an hourly schedule, priorities, and daily reflections.

How to Start Digital Planning (Without Overcomplicating It)

Many quit digital planning because they overcomplicate it. Here’s how to keep it simple:

Step 1: Pick ONE planner and ONE app—don’t overwhelm yourself

Step 2: Set up your most important pages first (weekly spreads, daily pages, habit tracker).

Step 3: Start simple—track only a few things at first, then add more later.

Step 4: Make it fun & personal! Use stickers, colors, or a handwritten font to keep it engaging.

Make Digital Planning Work for You

Digital planning is flexible, easy to start, and makes life more organized. Whether you need structure or freeform space, you can create a setup that works for you.

The best way to get into digital planning is to start small and build a routine that fits your lifestyle. Don’t overthink it—just start with the basics and adjust as you go.

Looking for a digital planner to make things easier? Check out our collection here!

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