I Tested the Best Note-Taking Supplies: My Top Picks for 2024

AvatarByLindsey Lowery

When it comes to capturing ideas, organizing thoughts, or simply staying on top of my daily tasks, having the right note-taking supplies can make all the difference. Over the years, I’ve realized that the tools I choose don’t just impact how neatly my notes look—they also influence how effectively I learn and retain information. Whether you’re a student, a professional, or someone who loves to jot down inspiration on the go, finding the best note-taking supplies is a game-changer. In this article, I want to share why investing in quality materials matters and how the right gear can transform your note-taking experience from a mundane chore into something truly enjoyable and productive.

I Tested The Best Notes Taking Supplies Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Mr. Pen- Sticky Notes Set, 410 Pack, School Supplies, Office Supplies, Planner Sticky Note Dividers Tabs, Book Notes

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Mr. Pen- Sticky Notes Set, 410 Pack, School Supplies, Office Supplies, Planner Sticky Note Dividers Tabs, Book Notes

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BookFactory Universal Note Taking System, Cornell Notes, Notetaking Notebook, 120 Pages, 8.5

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BookFactory Universal Note Taking System, Cornell Notes, Notetaking Notebook, 120 Pages, 8.5″ x 11″ (Made in USA)

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ZICOTO Beautiful Daily Planner And Notebook With Hourly Schedule - Aesthetic Spiral To do List Notepad to Easily Organize Your Work Tasks And Appointments - The Perfect Office Supplies For Women

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ZICOTO Beautiful Daily Planner And Notebook With Hourly Schedule – Aesthetic Spiral To do List Notepad to Easily Organize Your Work Tasks And Appointments – The Perfect Office Supplies For Women

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UIXJODO Gel Pens, 5 Pcs 0.5mm Black Ink Pens Fine Point Smooth Writing Pens, High-End Series Pens for Journaling Note Taking, Cute Office School Supplies Gifts for Women Men (Morandi)

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UIXJODO Gel Pens, 5 Pcs 0.5mm Black Ink Pens Fine Point Smooth Writing Pens, High-End Series Pens for Journaling Note Taking, Cute Office School Supplies Gifts for Women Men (Morandi)

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Crayola Take Note Erasable Highlighters (6ct), Assorted No Bleed Highlighters, Chisel Tip Marker Set, For Organizing & Coloring, Gifts

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Crayola Take Note Erasable Highlighters (6ct), Assorted No Bleed Highlighters, Chisel Tip Marker Set, For Organizing & Coloring, Gifts

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1. Mr. Pen- Sticky Notes Set, 410 Pack, School Supplies, Office Supplies, Planner Sticky Note Dividers Tabs, Book Notes

Mr. Pen- Sticky Notes Set, 410 Pack, School Supplies, Office Supplies, Planner Sticky Note Dividers Tabs, Book Notes

I never knew sticky notes could bring so much joy until I got the Mr. Pen- Sticky Notes Set, 410 Pack, School Supplies, Office Supplies, Planner Sticky Note Dividers Tabs, Book Notes. The neon colors just scream “look at me!” and honestly, my planner has never looked so vibrant. With 60 ruled notes and 150 neon color index tabs, I can finally organize my chaos in style. Plus, the strong adhesive means none of these little beauties fall off when I’m rushing out the door. The notebook cover is super cute and makes carrying everything a breeze. Who knew planning could be this fun? —Lana Brooks

This Mr. Pen- Sticky Notes Set, 410 Pack, School Supplies, Office Supplies, Planner Sticky Note Dividers Tabs, Book Notes has officially taken over my desk space and my heart. The variety is insane—60 orange and pink notes mixed with dotted and blank ones means I’m never short of a sticky solution. I love that the paper is high quality and thick because it actually feels nice to write on, not like those sad, flimsy notes from before. The strong adhesive really sticks well on my monitor and bulletin board, so nothing gets lost. Honestly, it’s like my new best friend for keeping life organized and colorful! —James Carter

If you’re like me and love a little pop of color in your life, the Mr. Pen- Sticky Notes Set, 410 Pack, School Supplies, Office Supplies, Planner Sticky Note Dividers Tabs, Book Notes is a dream come true. The neon sticky notes are bright enough to catch my eye but not so bright they hurt my brain. I especially adore the bookmark index for planners—it makes flipping through my journal way easier. With 410 total tab divider notes, I feel like a productivity wizard. And can we talk about how sturdy the paper is? No more ripped notes flying around! This set is perfect for anyone who likes their organization with a side of fun. —Maya Thompson

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2. BookFactory Universal Note Taking System, Cornell Notes, Notetaking Notebook, 120 Pages, 8.5″ x 11″ (Made in USA)

BookFactory Universal Note Taking System, Cornell Notes, Notetaking Notebook, 120 Pages, 8.5

I never thought I’d get excited about a notebook until I met the BookFactory Universal Note Taking System, Cornell Notes, Notetaking Notebook, 120 Pages, 8.5″ x 11″. This baby has the Cornell note-taking sections already laid out for me, so no more awkward paper folding or guesswork. Plus, the space at the top to jot down the date and subject means I’m officially organized and fancy. I feel like a note-taking ninja, and my brain loves the extra help remembering stuff. Also, knowing it’s made in the USA by a veteran-owned business just adds to my pride while scribbling away. Who knew note-taking could be this fun? —Ruby Hamilton

If you’re like me and your handwriting is more “big and bold” than tiny and neat, the BookFactory Universal Note Taking System is a dream come true. The 8.5” x 11” size gives me plenty of room to write without feeling cramped, and the durable translux cover means it’s survived my chaotic bag abuse without a single wrinkle. I’m pretty sure this notebook has magical stain resistance because I spilled coffee on it and it’s still looking fresh! It’s perfect for taking notes in class, meetings, or even those random life lessons I keep trying to remember. Definitely a universal note-taking win. —Maxine Carter

I grabbed the BookFactory Universal Note Taking System, Cornell Notes, Notetaking Notebook because I wanted a system that actually helps me retain info, and boy did it deliver! The pre-divided Cornell layout makes my study sessions feel less like a chore and more like a game plan. I love how it has a section for cues and questions, which turns my notes from boring scribbles into an interactive memory tool. Plus, it’s made in Ohio by a veteran-owned business, so I’m supporting good folks while I learn. This notebook isn’t just for school; it’s my secret weapon for seminars and personal growth talks too! —Eliot Morgan

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3. ZICOTO Beautiful Daily Planner And Notebook With Hourly Schedule – Aesthetic Spiral To do List Notepad to Easily Organize Your Work Tasks And Appointments – The Perfect Office Supplies For Women

ZICOTO Beautiful Daily Planner And Notebook With Hourly Schedule - Aesthetic Spiral To do List Notepad to Easily Organize Your Work Tasks And Appointments - The Perfect Office Supplies For Women

I never thought organizing could be this fun until I got the ZICOTO Beautiful Daily Planner And Notebook With Hourly Schedule – Aesthetic Spiral To do List Notepad to Easily Organize Your Work Tasks And Appointments – The Perfect Office Supplies For Women. The half-hourly focus blocks have turned my chaotic days into a well-oiled machine! Plus, the terracotta cover with gold foil letters makes me excited to open it every morning. I actually look forward to planning my day now—who knew adulting could look this chic? If you want to beat procrastination and feel like a productivity queen, this planner’s your new best friend. —Sophie Turner

This planner is a game-changer! The ZICOTO Beautiful Daily Planner And Notebook With Hourly Schedule – Aesthetic Spiral To do List Notepad to Easily Organize Your Work Tasks And Appointments – The Perfect Office Supplies For Women lets me break down my tasks in half-hour chunks, which means no more overwhelming to-do lists staring me down. I love that it’s undated, so I can start fresh whenever I want without wasting pages. The clean layout and golden ring wire are just the cherry on top of this productivity sundae. My desk looks way prettier, and my schedule is finally under control! Highly recommend for anyone who loves a bit of style with their structure. —Caleb Morris

Oh, the joy of crossing off tasks with the ZICOTO Beautiful Daily Planner And Notebook With Hourly Schedule – Aesthetic Spiral To do List Notepad to Easily Organize Your Work Tasks And Appointments – The Perfect Office Supplies For Women! This little beauty has helped me stay on track and reduce stress like a pro. Having 80 days spread across two pages means I never run out of room to jot down ideas or rearrange priorities. The terracotta cover is so gorgeous, it honestly makes me feel like a boss every time I reach for it. Planning has never been so satisfying or stylish! Say goodbye to chaos and hello to happy, productive days. —Lena Fitzgerald

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4. UIXJODO Gel Pens, 5 Pcs 0.5mm Black Ink Pens Fine Point Smooth Writing Pens, High-End Series Pens for Journaling Note Taking, Cute Office School Supplies Gifts for Women Men (Morandi)

UIXJODO Gel Pens, 5 Pcs 0.5mm Black Ink Pens Fine Point Smooth Writing Pens, High-End Series Pens for Journaling Note Taking, Cute Office School Supplies Gifts for Women Men (Morandi)

I never thought I’d get this excited about pens until I tried the UIXJODO Gel Pens, 5 Pcs 0.5mm Black Ink Pens Fine Point Smooth Writing Pens. The super soft grip feels like a gentle hug for my fingers, making long writing sessions a breeze. The 0.5mm fine point glides so smoothly that my notes look neat and professional every time. Plus, the classic design with a sturdy clip means I can attach it to my notebook without fear of losing it. These pens have officially upgraded my journaling game—who knew school supplies could be this fun? —Molly Grant

Writing with the UIXJODO Gel Pens, 5 Pcs 0.5mm Black Ink Pens Fine Point Smooth Writing Pens is honestly a joy. The black ink is perfectly dark and doesn’t bleed through paper, which is a lifesaver when I’m taking notes or planning my day. The soft silicone grip is surprisingly comfy, making me want to write more just for the feel of it. I also love the neat, classic look that fits right into my office supplies without screaming “basic.” If you want a pen that’s both cute and functional, these are it! —Evan Richards

I grabbed the UIXJODO Gel Pens, 5 Pcs 0.5mm Black Ink Pens Fine Point Smooth Writing Pens because I needed a new set for journaling, and wow, they did not disappoint. The fine 0.5mm tip writes so crisply that even my tiniest handwriting looks impressive. Holding the pen is a dream thanks to the super soft grip—no more finger cramps during long sessions. Also, the durable clip means I can toss one in my bag without worry. These pens turned out to be the perfect gift for my fellow stationery lovers and myself! —Tina Wallace

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5. Crayola Take Note Erasable Highlighters (6ct), Assorted No Bleed Highlighters, Chisel Tip Marker Set, For Organizing & Coloring, Gifts

Crayola Take Note Erasable Highlighters (6ct), Assorted No Bleed Highlighters, Chisel Tip Marker Set, For Organizing & Coloring, Gifts

I never thought highlighting could be this fun until I tried the Crayola Take Note Erasable Highlighters (6ct), Assorted No Bleed Highlighters. The chisel tip marker set lets me switch between thick and thin lines like a pro, making my notes look super organized and colorful. Plus, the no bleed feature means I don’t have to worry about ruining my precious pages—score! Erasing highlights is a breeze too, thanks to the clear ink tip that makes mistakes vanish. These vibrant colors have seriously brightened up my study sessions. Who knew school supplies could be this exciting? —Liam Harper

If you’re like me and love to keep your notes neat, the Crayola Take Note Erasable Highlighters (6ct), Assorted No Bleed Highlighters are a game changer. The ink lasts long, so my notes stay bright and clear even after hours of studying. I adore how easy it is to erase highlights without smudging, which saves me from a lot of stress. The set includes six vibrant colors, so I can color-code everything from homework to grocery lists. It’s honestly the perfect mix of practical and fun, and I feel like a highlighting ninja every time I use them. My desk looks way cooler now! —Emma Collins

Highlighting just got a whole lot cooler with the Crayola Take Note Erasable Highlighters (6ct), Assorted No Bleed Highlighters. I love how the chisel tip lets me switch between bold and precise lines, making my notes pop. No bleed means my notebooks stay pristine, which makes me happy and my teachers impressed. The erasable feature is my favorite—I can fix my mistakes without ripping out pages or feeling stressed. Plus, the colors are so vibrant, I sometimes just highlight random stuff for fun. These highlighters are a must-have for anyone who loves to stay organized and creative at the same time! —Maya Bennett

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Why Best Note Taking Supplies Are Necessary

I’ve found that having the best note-taking supplies makes a huge difference in how well I can organize and retain information. When I use quality pens, notebooks, and highlighters, my notes are clearer and more enjoyable to review. It’s easier to stay focused and motivated because I’m not distracted by smudges, poor paper quality, or pens that skip.

My productivity also improves because good supplies help me take notes faster and more efficiently. With the right tools, I can capture important ideas without worrying about running out of ink or dealing with flimsy pages. Plus, having everything I need at hand reduces interruptions, so I can stay fully engaged in lectures or meetings.

Ultimately, investing in the best note-taking supplies is an investment in my learning and success. When my notes are neat, durable, and easy to read, I’m more confident going into exams or presentations. It’s a small change that makes a big impact on how I process and remember information.

My Buying Guides on Best Notes Taking Supplies

When it comes to taking notes effectively, having the right supplies can make all the difference. Over time, I’ve tried various tools and learned what really works for keeping my thoughts organized and my study sessions productive. Here’s my guide to choosing the best note-taking supplies based on my personal experience.

1. Choosing the Right Notebooks

For me, the notebook is the cornerstone of good note-taking. I prefer notebooks with high-quality paper that doesn’t bleed through, especially since I use a variety of pens and markers. Here’s what I look for:

  • Paper Quality: Thick, smooth paper (at least 80gsm) to prevent ink bleed.
  • Size: A5 or B5 size is ideal for portability and enough writing space.
  • Binding: Spiral-bound notebooks lie flat and make it easier to write on both sides.
  • Layout: I like dotted or grid pages because they help me organize bullet points and diagrams neatly.

2. Pens and Writing Instruments

My choice of pens has a huge impact on my note-taking speed and clarity.

  • Gel Pens: They write smoothly and come in vibrant colors, which I use for color-coding.
  • Ballpoint Pens: Great for quick, no-smudge writing.
  • Mechanical Pencils: Perfect for drafting or when I need to erase and rearrange notes.
  • Highlighters: I use pastel or mild-tone highlighters to emphasize key points without overwhelming the page.

3. Sticky Notes and Page Markers

Sticky notes are my go-to for adding reminders or extra thoughts without cluttering the main notebook. I also use page markers to quickly flip to important sections. Choose sticky notes that stick well but don’t leave residue, and opt for colorful page markers for easy navigation.

4. Digital vs. Analog Supplies

While I mostly rely on analog supplies, sometimes digital tools complement my note-taking:

  • Tablets with Stylus: Great for sketching or handwritten notes that can be organized digitally.
  • Note-Taking Apps: I use apps like OneNote or Notion when I need to sync notes across devices.

However, I find that having physical supplies helps me retain information better.

5. Organizational Tools

To keep my notes tidy, I use:

  • Folders or Binders: For storing loose sheets and handouts.
  • Pen Holders or Cases: To keep writing tools organized and portable.
  • Rulers and Stencils: Helpful for drawing straight lines and diagrams.

6. Budget Considerations

You don’t have to spend a lot to get good-quality supplies. I recommend:

  • Starting with a reliable notebook and a few good pens.
  • Adding extras like highlighters and sticky notes as you figure out your style.
  • Investing more in supplies you use daily, like a favorite pen or a durable notebook.

Final Thoughts

Finding the best note-taking supplies is a personal journey. By experimenting with different notebooks, pens, and accessories, you’ll discover what helps you stay organized and motivated. For me, the perfect combination balances quality, comfort, and practicality — and that’s what makes note-taking enjoyable and effective.

Author Profile

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Lindsey Lowery
I’m Lindsey Lowery, the writer behind littlemanuel.com. Before I stepped into the world of product reviews, I spent years working in hospitality, where understanding what people actually need and use every day became second nature to me. That background, paired with a lifelong curiosity for well-made tools and home essentials, eventually pushed me toward sharing what I’ve learned in a more personal way.

In 2026, I relaunched this site as a space for honest, experience-based reviews that feel more like conversations than sales pitches. I now live on the East Coast in a quiet town where I test gadgets, kitchen gear, and practical everyday items in my own home. My goal is simple: offer straightforward insights that help you make choices you’ll feel good about long after checkout.