How to Use GoodNotes: A Beginner’s Guide to Digital Notetaking
One of my favorite apps to use on my iPad is GoodNotes. You can use GoodNotes to take notes or in my case, digital planning. Digital planning is one of my favorite past times. For memory planning, I use the GoodNotes app. I love recapping my week and using digital stickers. I also use GoodNotes to brainstorm and take notes when attending webinars. This blog post will cover how to use GoodNotes, from setting up your first Notebook to using the text tools.
Getting Started with GoodNotes
GoodNotes is just like using paper, only digitally. You can use the pen on your iPad to write, or you can use the text. Also, you can change your setting on your iPad so that GoodNotes is not sensitive to your palm touching the screen. You just go to Settings at the top right-hand corner of the app, and then select Stylus & Palm Rejection. From there you can select the sensitivity level from High, Medium, and Low.
Downloading GoodNotes
To start using GoodNotes, download it from the App Store. It’s available for iOS devices like iPhones and iPads, as well as Mac computers.
Open the App Store on your device and search for “GoodNotes 6”. Once you find it, tap the “Get” to start the download.
After installation, find the GoodNotes icon on your home screen or in your Applications folder on Mac.
Setting Up Your First Notebook
To create your first notebook:
- Tap the “+” button
- Choose “Notebook”
- Select a cover design and paper template
- Give your notebook a name
You can also customize the paper type, add dividers, and choose from various cover styles to make it uniquely yours.
Writing and Editing Notes
The pen tool is used for handwritten notes. You can choose from various pen styles like fountain pen, ballpoint, or brush. You can adjust the thickness and color by tapping the pen icon and select “my preferences.” For precise writing, just zoom in on the page.
Adding Text with the Text Tool
If you prefer your notes to be typed, then use the text tool. Tap on the ‘T’ icon, select a spot on the page, and start typing. Or if you have your settings on your iPad to “Scribble” you can write your notes and it will change to text. Changing fonts, sizes, and colors is easy through the text options menu. I can move text boxes around by dragging them or resizing them using the corner handles. You can also use bold, italic, or underlined for formatting options.
This should get you started with using GoodNotes. I may create a follow-up on GoodNotes detailing more advanced features and tips so stay tuned.
