A typical bullet journal is a mix of productivity tool, goal planner, and organizer. They consist of lists with colorful headings and a system to help you keep track of your life. But, pen and paper aren’t for everyone. After all, you can’t exactly get reminders from a paper journal. That’s why bullet journal apps are ideal for staying organized and productive. You get many of the same benefits but with the convenience of your smartphone or tablet.
Apps aren’t usually designed like a traditional journal. You don’t have a grid structure. Instead, these apps use many of the productivity aspects of bullet journaling to mix goal/to-do/habit-building apps with a bullet journal.
Daybook
Daybook is one of the most traditional journal apps on this list. It’s not just for bullet journaling, though. However, it’s ideal for most any type of journaling. Keep a daily chronicle of your life, create daily to-do lists, track your mood, monitor stress levels, practice gratitude, track goals, and much more.
To add the more visual element that comes with bullet journaling, you can easily upload pictures with every entry. Use your voice or favorite voice assistant to create quick entries. There’s even a handwriting scanner if you want to use a paper journal with Daybook.
The best part is Daybook is available for iOS, Android, and on the Web. You can journal from anywhere as long as you have Internet access. Cloud backups are included, too. The free version may be enough for most users, but you can upgrade and get additional features for $29.99/year.
Trello
One of the better bullet journaling apps is Trello. While it’s well-known as a project-management tool, the card-style design makes it perfect for bullet journaling. Plus, the organization features make it easy to find any entry when you need it.
Use the cards to create to-do lists, track goals, plan out weeks/months/years, and much more. Yes, it’s mainly a business productivity app, but you really can use the app to track and organize most anything. Create checklists, add images, and set due dates with each card.
It’s a cross-platform app available on the Web, iOS, and Android. Start with the free version and upgrade if necessary for $10/month. Most personal users should only need the free version, though.
Evernote
It’s hard not to include Evernote on a journal app list. Much like Daybook, it works for any type of journaling. It’s also a great project management and productivity tool.
While it’s called a note-taking app, it’s so much more. Easily organize individual notes or create groups of notes using notebooks. You can also create rich notes filled with images, audio, and colorful formatting. Scan in handwritten entries as well if you want to back up a pen and paper bullet journal.
Every note is searchable, including handwritten notes. Create checklists, graphs, grids, and more. The amount of customization per note is outstanding and sets it apart as a note-taking and journaling tool.
The basic version is free, but if you need more storage space, mobile access, and other features, premium starts at just $7.99/month. Evernote is available on the Web, iOS, and Android.
If you prefer Microsoft apps, OneNote is a great alternative to Evernote with many of the same features.
GoodNotes
Love the process of actually writing and drawing? GoodNotes is one of the most popular bullet journal apps that takes a more traditional approach. Use a stylus to actually write and design each entry. This helps you combine pen and paper bullet journaling while still getting the benefit of a digital format.
Get as creative as you want with numerous formatting, color, and style options. All your handwriting is searchable as well. Organize everything into folders for easy access.
The app is only available for iOS and Mac. It’s just $7.99 for access on all devices.
If you’re looking for a great Android alternative, NoteLedge has you covered with many of the same features. It’s also compatible with iOS, Mac, and Windows.
Getting into a regular habit of bullet journaling helps you stay organized, track your goals, and so much more. Use these bullet journal apps to stay on track wherever you are.
Image: Trello Press, GoodNotes Press