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Do you prefer digital notetaking or physical notetaking? I like a hybrid, depending on what the notes are for. But there is just so much satisfaction in going old school. If you find yourself opting for a more analogue notebook instead of a screen, you’re gonna need some pens. That’s where I come in. I did some research and I found that it might be time to ditch the biro- different pens have different functions and it’s about time we start using them right!
For neater-looking handwriting; the Muji Gel Ink Ballpoint Pen, with a 0.38mm nib
Using this pen for the first time back in 2022 was the first time I actually gained an interest in stationary. I was so shocked at how much nicer my handwriting looked with these pens. I love Muji stationary in general, but these pens are really the highlight of their products. It’s also super handy that you can just get ink refills when your ink run out, rather than buying an entire new body too.
For faster writing; the Pilot G2 Pixie Rollerball Pen with a 0.39mm nib
I remember when I was younger someone told me that I wrote really fast, and for some reason that became a major personality trait for me. I used to actually time how long it would take me to finish a page of writing. I probably could’ve brought that time down a few seconds and achieved a new PR if I had the right pen. Luckily, now I’m aware of these pens, which allow for much faster writing with a rollerball and smooth ink. This decreases drag across the paper and will allow you to keep up with that one lecturer who talks at the speed of sound.
For subheadings; uni-ball UB-150 Liquid Ink Rollerball Pen with a 0.5mm nib
When I’m writing out my nice notes after a lecture, I like to make sure that I can tell different sections apart from each other with ease. To make nice subheadings, you’ll want a more intense pen. I think that the uni-ball pen is perfect for this purpose.
For a more comfortable grip; PILOT Dr. Grip Center of Gravity Refillable & Retractable Ballpoint Pen
Does anyone else have blocks of lectures non-stop? Last year I had a five-hour block, which was gruelling. Something that no one tells you about those is the insane hand cramps you get. The same goes for writing essays for traditional teachers who want everything hand written. Or state exams in many countries where you have to write in pen; as someone who did all essay-based subjects in my exams, I don’t think my hand will ever recover. If only I had known about this pen, maybe I would have been saved from that suffering! With a comfortable grip and a wider barrel, this pen will make those long hours of writing just a little more bearable.
For smear-free writing; BIC Gel-ocity Quick Dry with a 0.7mm nib
We all know the struggle of trying to write really, really fast and we end up smearing ink all over the page. Or just being left-handed and constantly having to raise your wrist so you don’t end up with a mess of ink on your thumb. Those days are over with this quick-drying gel pen. With 8 different colours, it’s time to say goodbye to ink smears.
Those are my top picks, but if anyone has any more that they would like to share, feel free to comment them below or email me at cadymccabe.business@gmail.com.
Keep grooving,
Cady ◡̈
great article