Quick answer
For most RPG note-takers, a dotted journal offers the best balance of structure and freedom — you get the alignment of a grid without the visual clutter, making it ideal for maps, tables, and freeform notes alike.
Why layout matters for RPG notes
RPG campaign notes are rarely just text. You might sketch a dungeon map, draw a character portrait, or lay out a combat encounter table. The right page layout can make those tasks easier without forcing you to flip between different notebooks.
Lined pages excel for pure writing — session logs, NPC dialogue, or long descriptions — but they can feel restrictive when you need to draw or diagram. Grid pages give you precise alignment for maps and tables, but the constant lines can be visually noisy. Dotted pages offer a subtle guide that supports both writing and drawing without overwhelming the page.
Trade-offs to consider
If you primarily take linear session notes and rarely draw, a lined journal may be simpler and cheaper. If you run tactical combat or need to track positions on a grid, a full grid layout might be worth the visual density. Dotted journals work best when you mix writing, drawing, and layout — they are the most versatile but may not satisfy players who prefer a strong line guide for handwriting.
How to choose your journal layout
- Choose dotted if you mix writing, drawing, and tables: Dotted pages provide a subtle guide for alignment — great for bullet journaling, mapping dungeons, and keeping session logs all in one book.
- Choose lined if you write long session notes only: Lined pages keep handwriting straight and organized. Best for players who rarely draw or need diagrams in their campaign notes.
- Choose grid if you draw detailed maps or track positions: Full grid lines make it easy to draw to scale, design dungeon rooms, or track combat movement. The constant lines can feel busy for freeform writing.
Product spotlight
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Dotted Red Journal w/ Black Compass Foil by Hexed®: The Dotted Red Journal w/ Black Compass Foil by Hexed® features a dotted layout on a classic red cover with a compass foil design. The dotted grid gives you the freedom to create custom layouts for character sheets, maps, and session logs without the visual noise of full grid lines.
Dotted Red Journal w/ Black Compass Foil by Hexed®
Who should pick what
Best for
- Players who want one journal for notes, maps, and character sheets
- Bullet journalers who use their RPG notebook for campaign planning and personal organization
- GMs who sketch encounter areas and track session logs in the same book
Not for
- Players who prefer a strong line guide for handwriting and never draw — a lined journal is simpler
- Those who need precise grid alignment for tactical combat maps — a full grid journal may work better
