With the advancement of technology, many people now use apps or computer calendars to manage their daily tasks. However, some still prefer the warmth of handwriting and choose planners or journals to track schedules and plans. So how do you choose a planner that’s both practical and suitable for your needs? Which is better—dated or undated? Leatai is here to help you compare the pros and cons and share key points for selecting the right planner.
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ToggleHow to Choose a Journal or Planner? 3 Key Points: Format, Size, and Usage
The most important factor in choosing a practical journal or planner is that it meets the user’s needs. So when selecting one, consider the following three aspects.
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Planner Purpose
Identify the main purpose—note-taking, planning, scheduling, or journaling. Knowing your usage habits will help you choose the right type.
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Suitable Size
Consider your writing habits and whether you’ll carry it daily.
For on-the-go use, choose a compact size that fits in your bag.
For home use, base the size on how much you typically write. -
Dated vs. Undated Format
After determining your purpose and size, consider convenience:
For use as a calendar, go with a dated planner.
For flexible journaling without fixed dates, an undated planner is ideal.
Dated vs. Undated Planner Comparison
So, which is better—dated or undated planners? You may have this question, but in fact, both types have their own unique features. There’s no absolute right or wrong—what matters most is choosing the one that fits your needs. Below is a comparison of their differences, along with their pros and cons.
Dated Planner | Undated Planner | |
Features | Includes date-based layouts (monthly, weekly, daily) | No dates; uses blank, grid, or lined pages |
Pros | Easy to plan each day/week; serves as a daily record | No pressure to write daily; freedom in usage |
Cons | Fixed formats reduce writing flexibility | Less ideal for daily task planning or calendar use |
Best for | Users who write daily or need a business calendar | Users who prefer free-form journaling or planning |
Custom Dated & Undated Planners – Designed to Fit Your Needs
Can’t find a planner that matches your needs on the market? Try Leatai’s customization service. We offer expert advice and tailor every element to create a high-quality, personalized planner—dated or undated—suited to your preferences. Customizable options include:
✅ Inner page format (dated/undated)
✅ Paper type
✅ Layout and spacing
✅ Cover material and construction
✅ Print colors
We craft journals that are functional, practical, and perfectly suited to your brand or personal use.
2 Custom Journal Case Studies︱Both Dated and Undated Formats Are Practical
Below are examples of dated and undated planners, helping you better understand the unique features of custom journals and how each type can be used.
Cheng Cheng-kung Museum – Undated Planner
Features an antique-style design with thread-bound hardcover and lay-flat construction. Combined with fountain-pen-friendly paper, it offers a smooth writing experience.
H:connect – Dated Planner
A weekly planner with a two-page layout per week. Includes product coupons inside, blending functionality with savings. Stylish pastel covers make this planner both useful and visually appealing.
Interested in More Custom Planner Samples?
Explore Leatai’s OEM portfolio. For dated or undated custom planner inquiries, contact us to design a unique, high-quality journal tailored just for you.
Retail Purchase:
Visit Leatai’s official website: Leatai Planners & Journals – Taiwan’s only dedicated journal, planner, and notebook brand counter.