Chapter 1: Embracing the Digital Shift

For years, I've been a devoted fan of writing on paper. The simple act of pen on paper allowed me to express thoughts, ideas, and plans, fostering a mindful and analytical mindset while alleviating stress.

What are the benefits of handwriting on paper? It provides a convenient notebook, whether you prefer a soft or hard cover, and size is a personal choice. I personally favored classic Moleskine notebooks with a rigid cover and ruled white pages. My go-to writing instrument was always a basic BIC pen in dark blue. My handwriting was never exceptional, so I didn’t mind the lack of neatness; what mattered was capturing my thoughts quickly and freely.

Over time, I learned to appreciate revisiting my previous writings, whether they were work notes, complaints, project ideas, sketches, or simple brain dumps. Reflecting on these notes months or years later offered a new perspective and helped me recognize certain anxieties I had.

However, I found it limiting to always need my notebook nearby when inspiration struck. Due to my job, I often had to rely on my iPhone, relegating handwriting to quieter moments, usually early mornings or late evenings. I needed a dedicated space and time, which I often viewed as a challenge.

A few years ago, I acquired an iPad Mini for both work and leisure, which led me to ponder: "Can I write by hand on an iPad and achieve the same positive effects as writing on paper?" Along with the iPad Mini, I had purchased an Apple Pencil, though it had mostly sat unused since I wasn't a designer.

I was aware of the remarkable writing capabilities the Apple Pencil offered, so finding an app that suited my needs was straightforward. Many recommended GoodNotes, but I opted for the simpler yet effective Noteshelf 3.

Writing on the iPad Mini quickly proved to be intuitive and straightforward. The Apple Pencil is lightweight and allows for a writing experience similar to that on paper. My handwriting looked virtually identical, which was crucial for me. You can customize the page format—switching from lined to grid paper or using a blank sheet for diagrams or sketches.

Customization extends to the pen itself, including stroke type and color options, as well as the convenience of instant erasure without messy scribbles. Noteshelf 3 is also compatible with Mac, ensuring your notes are always accessible. If you can't access your notes on the iPad, simply open the app on your Mac or iPhone, and they’re right there, ready to be reviewed and edited.

The ability to split the screen on the iPad is fantastic. You can read an article on one side while jotting down notes on the other. While this is possible with a planner and a Mac, it necessitates carrying two devices.

So, what drives the preference for writing on paper rather than a tablet today? Simply personal taste.

It’s akin to the choice between reading physical books and using a Kindle. Both experiences offer different pleasures. The pen stroke is now instantaneous, eliminating the lag that existed years ago between the pen's movement and its appearance on the screen.

Writing on the iPad has become almost indistinguishable from writing on paper, except for one significant factor for some: tactile feedback. By "tactile feedback," I mean the unique resistance that paper provides when writing, a sensation that tablets cannot fully replicate.

Writing with a pen on a screen feels smooth and effortless, but the absence of that tactile sensation can deter some from embracing this method. The grip of paper while writing is unmatched, even with external accessories like specialized tips for the Apple Pencil or screen protectors.

What, then, are the reasons to continue favoring paper? Beyond the economic aspect of the price difference between a tablet and a notebook with a pen, I believe it ultimately comes down to personal preference and a nostalgic yearning for the tangible. Much like those who prefer physical books over e-readers or vinyl records over digital music.

One thing is clear: we have reached such an advanced level of writing on tablets that it’s challenging to justify a strong preference for paper. While the iPad offers numerous conveniences, the tactile sensation of paper remains elusive. The choice between these two methods is mostly about individual taste and the significance one places on physical sensation during writing.

In my case, I’ve found harmony in both worlds. The joy of writing by hand (and preserving this ancient art) coexists beautifully with the conveniences of modern technology. It allows me to always carry a physical medium and write wherever I am, without needing to carve out specific times or places.

Two seemingly distant realms have merged, allowing both to coexist peacefully!

Chapter 2: The Future of Handwriting