Digital planning has emerged as a popular alternative to traditional paper-based organization, offering users a customizable and eco-friendly way to manage schedules, goals, and daily tasks. According to source material from a digital planning resource, digital planners are PDF files featuring hyperlinks and tabs that allow for quick navigation to specific pages. Users can write on these planners using a stylus and enhance them with digital stickers. The primary appeal lies in their flexibility, allowing for the duplication of pages, easy error correction, and the ability to keep multiple planners on a single device. Unlike physical planners, digital versions do not require printing and can incorporate digital photos and images directly into the layout.
The process of getting started with digital planning requires specific hardware and software. Users typically need a tablet equipped with a stylus pen, such as an iPad, Android tablet, or Windows device. The choice of device dictates which planning applications are most suitable. For Apple users, the source material recommends using PDF digital planners within apps like GoodNotes or Noteful. Android users are advised to utilize the Penly app for PDF planning. For those using Windows devices, the source notes that there are limited PDF planning apps available; instead, it recommends using OneNote digital planners which work with Microsoft OneNote. A distinct advantage of OneNote is its ability to sync across multiple platforms via OneDrive, a feature not commonly found in PDF-based planning apps.
Regarding the specific application GoodNotes, the source clarifies that the app does not come with built-in digital planners. To use a digital planner in GoodNotes, the user must import the planner file separately. This can typically be done by tapping the Share icon within the file manager and sharing it directly to the GoodNotes app. The source material suggests watching a video tutorial for a detailed step-by-step guide on this process.
A variety of digital planners are available to suit different preferences. Options include dated and undated planners, layouts starting on Monday or Sunday, and selections of daily or weekly layouts. Users can also choose between landscape and portrait orientations. When selecting a planner, the source emphasizes the importance of fully hyperlinked pages for ease of navigation. The "best" digital planner is subjective, but key features to look for include lag-free hyperlink tapping and a variety of templates for productivity, wellness, and finances. For beginners, the source recommends starting with a free digital planner to test the method. These free versions often feature minimal templates and dated monthly and weekly pages, making them easier to navigate for new users. One such free planner mentioned is based on a bestselling bundle recommended by GoodNotes in a 2022 blog post.
The source material outlines several pros and cons of digital planning compared to traditional paper planning. Advantages include being paperless, the ability to easily undo mistakes, reusable digital stickers, and the convenience of accessing the planner on multiple devices (depending on the app). Disadvantages include the initial cost of purchasing a tablet and accessories, the learning curve associated with using new software, and the reliance on device battery life.
In addition to planners, the source mentions the availability of digital sticker packs. Users interested in free digital planner stickers can join a newsletter to gain access to a "Freebies Vault."