While flying back from Phoenix, Arizona to Atlanta, Georgia, I brainstormed a list of places I use my pocket notebook, 3.5 x 5.5 inches. Just before this trip I switched from a 80-page Moleskine art sketchbook style notebook to a booklet style, similar to Field Notes, but with thicker paper and fewer pages (28) that I created myself.

Commute – I keep my notebook close while driving so I can check it at stoplights as needed and make a note if something comes up.

Work – My pocket notebook is beside my computer on the desk. I use 2 pages as a weekly spread that combines my work and personal events and any personal actions (tasks). I also have room for notes.

Eating – If eating alone, meals are a quiet time to review notes and plan for various activities.

Cafés – If I’m waiting for a drink order or working from a coffee shop, I find this to be a great time to follow-up on actions.

Shopping – I have 1–2 pages of my notebook dedicated to shopping lists, encompassing grocery, home, hobbies, books, and clothes.

Relaxing – At home, I like to keep my pocket notebook with me to write quotes from books or videos. While some notebook enthusiasts keep a common place book for quotes and bookish observations, I find it more convenient to note anything in my notebook since I have it with me.

Hobbies – Because I often think of hobby-related ideas while at work or out-and-about, I will sketch design ideas in my notebook to develop later. Recently I imagined a small slipcase to hold 5–10 pocket notebooks and drew the basic plan in my notebook.

Bedtime – I like to review tomorrow’s schedule and any actions I need to complete.

Travel – The blueish image in the grid above was my first picture for this series. When it is not convenient to use a personal device, having a small notebook is handy to plan, draw, and note any ideas.