When it comes to notebooks, I find myself using both ring planners and bound planners. My choice often depends on the purpose: for journaling or time-based records where I don’t need to rearrange pages, I prefer a bound planner like Hobonichi or Traveler's Notebook. However, if I want to organize related content by theme or need the flexibility to add and remove pages, a ring planner is the way to go.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Ring Planners
Disadvantages:
- Writing Experience:The metal rings in ring planners can obstruct writing on the left side of the page. You can remove pages to write and then reinsert them, or turn the planner sideways. Luckily, many newer models feature smaller rings, making it easier to write comfortably. I’ll cover more about these in an upcoming video.
- Cost:Ring planners tend to be pricier than bound ones, especially those with high-quality leather covers. However, if you use a planner over several years, the daily cost can become quite reasonable. That said, once you dive into the world of ring planners, it’s hard not to indulge in new covers and various inserts—I've found myself changing mine every few months for a fresh writing experience!
Advantages:
One of the biggest advantages of ring planners is their flexibility. The rings allow you to easily add, remove, and rearrange pages, which is essential for various situations. Here are some common scenarios where this adaptability shines:
- Organizing Content: With a ring planner, you can effortlessly group related information without the need for multiple bound planners. Whether you’re managing different projects at work, juggling multiple clients, or separating your work and personal life, a ring planner serves as a versatile catch-all. It’s also perfect for creating a commonplace book where you can compile reading notes, quotes, and inspiration on specific topics. You can use dividers or different colored pages to quickly locate relevant sections.
- Adding and Changing Content: Keeping your planner fresh is easy with a ring binder. You can easily print out study materials or pre-designed templates to incorporate into your planner. Additionally, you have the option to add blank pages at any time, allowing for spontaneous note-taking or brainstorming. This level of flexibility ensures that your planner can adapt to your changing needs and projects seamlessly. You can also simply transfer some important pages to a new planner when you start a fresh one—no need to rewrite everything.
- Addressing Perfectionism and ADHD: If you make a mistake on a page, it’s simple to remove that page and replace it. For those with ADHD, who often have new ideas that could clutter a bound planner, a ring planner allows you to keep things organized without feeling overwhelmed. You can work in multiple planners at once, ensuring you maintain the joy of writing without the pressure to fill a single book completely.
- Customization: The rings enable you to add various accessories. For example, you can incorporate a card holder to transform your planner into a wallet or include pockets for stickers. This level of customization means your planner can be tailored to your personal needs and style.
- Easily Removing Unneeded Content: Unlike bound planners, where past entries can clutter your pages, ring planners allow you to remove irrelevant content easily. This helps you focus on what truly matters and keeps your planner lightweight, especially for those on the go.
Using a ring planner means you’re not confined to someone else's system, as with traditional bullet journals. Instead, you can create a personalized note-taking system that fits the way your brain works, allowing for greater creativity and efficiency in your planning.