Why every writer should keep a notebook

Almost every serious writer keeps a notebook. It is not a diary; it is a collection box for anything that might one day become writing.

What to collect

• Lines of overheard dialogue.
• Interesting words and phrases from books.
• Descriptions of people and places you notice.
• “What if?” ideas.
• Dreams, memories and strange news stories.

Make it a habit

Write something in it every day, even one line. The habit of noticing is what makes writers different.

Paper or phone?

Either works. Paper is good for sketches and quiet thinking; a notes app is always in your pocket. The best notebook is the one you actually use.

Go back to it

When you need a story, read through your notebook. Two unrelated notes often combine into a brilliant idea.

Try it: for one week, collect three things a day. At the end, combine two of them into a story opening. Our 30-day writing challenge on the Toolkit page can help you keep going.