Many people use the words 'dagbog' and 'journal' interchangeably. This isn't wrong in everyday speech, but there's an important nuance that makes it much easier to choose the right way to write.
A diary is a type of journal. It typically involves writing about one's day and experiences. A journal is a broader term and can be used for many different things such as thoughts, goals, reflection, and structure.
En dagbog er en bog, hvori man holder en optegnelse over begivenheder, personlige tanker og observationer, der finder sted over tid, typisk på en daglig basis.
A diary is the classic way to write.
Her skriver du ofte:
- what you have done during the day
- what you have experienced
- how you have been
The diary typically follows a narrative of your life and is more chronological.
En journal er en publikation, der indeholder fagfællebedømte videnskabelige artikler.
A journal is a broad term that covers several ways a notebook can be used. This includes a diary. This means a diary can be a journal, but a journal is not necessarily a diary.
A journal is more flexible and can contain many different things.
You can use a journal for:
- reflection
- Targets and plans
- Lister
- ideas
- tracking
A journal does not need to follow a specific structure.
Different types of journals
There are many different types of journals, for example:
- diary
- Bullet journal
- Reading journal
- gratitude journal
- Travelogue
- Junk journal
- Planner
Diary vs. journal in practice
If you're still in doubt, think of it like this:
Choose a diary if you:
- happy to write about your day
- document your life
- prefer contiguous text
Choose a different type of journal if you:
- will work with your thoughts
- would like structure
- To combine writing with creative elements
Can they be combined
Yes, and that's actually what most people do.
You can easily:
- write diary some days
- Wash dishes and reflect on other days
- Combine with days where you only make junk journals
There are no rules when it comes to journaling. The most important thing is that you find a version that suits you.
What should one write
How to get started
If you haven't started yet, you can read our guide to How to start a diary.
What equipment do you need
You don't need much to get started.
Begin with:
- a notebook
- a pen that feels good to write with
See our selection of Notebooks and journals and
Frequently Asked Questions
Are a diary and a journal the same thing
No. A diary is a type of journal, whereas a journal is a broader term that covers several types.
What is the difference between a diary and a journal?
A diary is typically chronological and narrative, while a journal is more flexible and can contain anything from lists to reflections.
What should I choose
It depends on your needs. Many choose a combination.
Can one start without experience
Yes. All types of journals, including diaries, are for everyone and easy to get started with.
What if I don't know what to write
Start simply and write what has happened during the day. You can also use questions, for example, prompts, to help.
