3 Essential Things You Need for Digital Planning

It’s no secret by now that we love digital planning. Digital planning is the process of using a digital planner to organize schedules, set goals, and manage various aspects of life. It involves the same principles as traditional planning but leverages the advantages of digital technology to enhance organization and productivity.

To get started with digital planning, you’ll need a few essential tools and resources. Here’s a comprehensive list to help you set up your digital planning system:

1. Tablet or Device

Tablet: A tablet is the most popular device for digital planning due to its portability and touchscreen capabilities. Popular choices include:

• Apple iPad: The iPad Pro, iPad Air, and iPad Mini are great options. The iPad Pro, with its large screen and powerful performance, is particularly favored for digital planning.
• Samsung Galaxy Tab: The Galaxy Tab S series, such as the Tab S9 Ultra, offers excellent Android alternatives with high-resolution displays and S Pen support.
• Microsoft Surface: The Surface Pro provides a versatile 2-in-1 option, combining the functionality of a laptop and a tablet.
• E-Ink Devices: Devices like the reMarkable 2, Onyx Boox, and Amazon Scribe are perfect for those who prefer a paper-like experience with the convenience of digital tools. (See our in-depth comparison of e-ink devices for more information on this.)

Laptop: While less common, laptops can also be used for digital planning, especially if you prefer typing over handwriting.

Smartphone: For quick access and portability, a smartphone can be a handy secondary device for digital planning.

2. App

Choosing the right app is crucial for an effective digital planning experience. Here are some top apps compatible with various devices:

• OneNote: A versatile note-taking app that supports text, handwriting, images, and audio recordings. It’s great for creating and organizing digital planners.
• GoodNotes: Popular among iPad users, GoodNotes is known for its excellent handwriting recognition and annotation features.
• Nebo: An advanced note-taking app that converts handwriting to text in real-time, making it ideal for those who prefer writing by hand.
• Noteshelf: Offers a smooth writing experience and supports both typed and handwritten notes, suitable for various planning styles.
• Notability: Combines note-taking and PDF annotation with audio recording capabilities, perfect for comprehensive digital planning.

3. Digital Planner

A digital planner is a customizable template that you can use within your chosen app. The Key2Success Digital Planner is an excellent option, providing:

• Scheduling Pages: For daily, weekly, and monthly planning.
• Goal Setting Templates: To help you set and track your objectives.
• Task Management: With to-do lists and checklists.
• Class Schedule and Notes: Ideal for students to organize their coursework. (This is in the student version.)
• Vision Board: To visualize long-term goals.
• Habit Tracking: To monitor and develop new habits.
• Additional Features: Such as project planning, meeting notes, and budget tracking.

Visit the OneNote Planner Shop
Visit the PDF (GoodNotes, ReMarkable, Etc) Shop

4. Stylus (if applicable)

A stylus enhances the digital planning experience by allowing you to write and draw directly on your tablet, simulating the feel of a traditional pen and paper.

• Apple Pencil: Works seamlessly with iPad models, offering precise and responsive writing and drawing capabilities.
• Samsung S Pen: Comes with Galaxy Tab devices, providing excellent functionality for writing and annotating.
• Surface Pen: Compatible with Microsoft Surface devices, offering a natural writing experience.
• Other Styluses: For e-ink devices like the reMarkable Marker for the reMarkable 2, or the Wacom stylus for Onyx Boox devices.

Digital planning combines the benefits of traditional paper planners with the versatility and efficiency of digital technology. By using the right tablet or device, a suitable app, a well-designed digital planner, and a stylus, you can create a personalized and powerful planning system that helps you stay organized, focused, and productive.

Whether you’re a student, professional, or simply someone looking to streamline their daily life, digital planning offers a modern solution to meet your needs.

Visit the OneNote Planner Shop
Visit the PDF (GoodNotes, ReMarkable, Etc) Shop

Digital planning combines the benefits of traditional paper planners with the versatility and efficiency of digital technology. By using the right tablet or device, a suitable app, a well-designed digital planner, and a stylus, you can create a personalized and powerful planning system that helps you stay organized, focused, and productive. Whether you’re a student, professional, or simply someone looking to streamline their daily life, digital planning offers a modern solution to meet your needs.