Learn The Basics of GoodNotes: The Ultimate Guide for Handwritten Notetaking

Introduction

If you're looking to take your handwritten notes into the digital realm, GoodNotes 5 is one of the most powerful and beloved options for iPad and Mac users. Its balance of natural handwriting feel and robust features makes it a favorite for students, professionals, and creatives alike. In this guide, we'll break down the essential tools and concepts to get you started.

Getting Set Up

• Creating Notebooks: Start by creating notebooks for different subjects, projects, or areas of your life. GoodNotes uses a familiar notebook structure for easy organization.

• Importing Documents: Easily bring in PDFs, PowerPoint slides, or images to annotate and add notes directly onto.

• Paper Templates: Choose from a wide array of paper styles (graph, lined, dotted, sheet music, etc.) to customize your notetaking experience.

Mastering the Pen Tool

• Pen Types: Experiment with fountain pens, ballpoint pens, and brush pens to find your favorite writing style.

• Colors and Sizes: Customize your "ink" with a vast color palette and adjustable line thickness.

• Eraser: Choose between stroke or pixel erasers for different levels of precision.

Beyond Basic Writing

• The Lasso Tool: Select, move, resize, and even recolor your handwritten notes for easy adjustments.

• Shapes Tool: Draw perfect shapes, arrows, and lines to enhance diagrams and notes.

• Text Boxes: Add typed text anywhere within your notes for clarity or additional information.

• Images: Insert photos and graphics to enrich your notes and visual brainstorming.

Organization and Search

• Folders: Group notebooks into folders for a streamlined workspace.

• Handwriting Search: GoodNotes' powerful search can find your handwritten words within your notes!

• Favorites: Mark frequently used notebooks or pages for quick access.

Additional Tips

• Practice Regularly: Like writing with a new pen, using GoodNotes smoothly takes some practice.

• Use Keyboard Shortcuts: Available for iPad users to speed up common actions.

• Explore Advanced Features: GoodNotes offers features like flashcards and document outlines as you become more familiar.

Conclusion

GoodNotes offers a remarkably intuitive and enjoyable way to merge the satisfaction of handwritten notes with the power of digital organization. With these basic tools under your belt, you're ready to take your notetaking to the next level!