Bullet Journal Key
A bullet journal key explains the symbols you use in your notes. If you're setting up your first notebook, start with a few symbols you can remember easily.
The examples below show different ways to make a key, from a short list to a fold-out reference page.
What Is A Bullet Journal Key?
Think of the key as a small legend for your rapid logging symbols.
It records what each symbol, color, or letter means, so you can check it when you need a reminder.
Those bullet points give the bullet journal its name.
Bullet Journal Symbols & Rapid Logging
You'll use the symbols when rapid logging, the method's shorthand way of taking notes.
Rapid logging uses brief entries and distinct bullets to separate tasks, events, and notes. It lets you record something without writing a full diary entry.
Consistent symbols make it easier to scan your notes later and find the kind of entry you're looking for.
Do You Need A Bullet Journal Key?
If you use symbols, a small key is a useful reference. It can be just a few lines; it doesn't need a full decorated page.
I didn't make a key in my practice journal until I'd been using it for more than a month.
It took me a little time to get used to the system, but the symbols made my notes easier to read. You can also explore these bullet journal spread ideas.
I find it easier to sort through my notes when I use the same symbols consistently.
Try a small set, then adjust it as you learn what you use.
The Bullet Journal Key (Original)
The special-edition Leuchtturm1917 notebook shown here includes a key based on Ryder Carroll's Bullet Journal method. It offers a starting point for your own symbols.
Here's the original key shown in that notebook:
Easy Bullet Journal Key Ideas
And here's a hand-drawn example I made with a few additional symbols:
A simple Bullet Journal Key
Bullet Journal Key Page Ideas
These examples offer other ways to arrange your key.
via SOURCE
To Do List Symbols
Simple Bullet Journal Tracking Symbols
You can include symbols for your trackers, as this example shows:
via SOURCE
image via SOURCE
Bullet Planner Key
image via pages2plans
via pages2plans
Bullet Journal Fold Out Key
This key folds out, so it stays visible while you turn to another page.
from elzdoodles
via nitly.sketching
via @thestudiesphase (no longer available)
image via _c.ti_
via cissmophy
image from aox.bujo
via greyzonepages
Use Bullet Journal Color Coding
This fold-out key also explains the journal's color code.
via greenishplanning
Bullet Journal Key Categories
If you use several kinds of symbols, group them by purpose. This example separates daily, monthly, weekly, and color references.
from b.izzi
Choose shapes and colors that are quick for you to draw. For more decoration ideas, see these spring journal themes.
image via bujogem
An Easy Bullet Journal Symbols Key
A short key can be enough. Include the symbols you use and leave room to add others later.
A Free Bujo Key PDF Printable
I've made a free key PDF you can use as a reference or cut out and place in your notebook.
Download the free bullet journal key PDF
Use the link above or the image below to open the download page.
Bullet Journaling Symbols – Final Thoughts
If you're unsure where to start, try one of these simple keys for a week.
Notice which symbols you reach for and which you leave unused. Keep, remove, or change them as needed.
Your key can develop alongside your journal. Keep it readable and easy to use rather than aiming for a finished system on day one.
Find more page ideas or read how to start a bullet journal.
