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There are only really 4 types of basic bullet journal collections according to Ryder Carrol, the creator of the system. A collection is an umbrella underneath which you organize a specific type of information.
That means that its a place to write down anything and everything you want. All the stuff that you would “normally” have in a planner as well as all the thing you wanted to have but would never before fit.
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You can have running collections that you connect through the use of “threading” or you can have stand-alone collections where it’s all in one place. The possibilities are endless and they are just about as custom as you get.
*There are tons of examples in this post so if you just want pictures, go ahead and scroll!*
The 4 major types of bullet journal collections
According to Ryder, yes I talk like I know him😅, the four types of collections are the index, future log, monthly log, and daily log then he gives you the option of creating custom collections as well.
Let’s take a look at these basics before going into the fun of the choose your own adventure kind.
- Related: Create a Custom Bullet Journal Key
- Related: Build your Best Future Log
The Index
An index is pretty essential for most people. I find this especially true for those that like to write down everything. Being able to find that checklist, contact info, party planning ideas, etc. is kinda important.
This is what your index is for!
Every time you add something to your bullet journal write it into your index so you can find it again when you need it.
My index isn’t super well loved…
I add my major collections and the start of my month and that’s typically it. But if you use your bullet journal to track projects or connect ideas, using your index is a major key.
The Future Log
A future log is a must-have in every bullet journal. I’ve written a whole post in this bujo basics series about the future log so go take a look for full details.
But in short, the future log is where you put everything that you need to remember for a later date.
Since you don’t have a box or page for September 17th in April (typically), you add the event or note for that day in your future log. Once September rolls around you refer to this collection and then move the events, tasks, notes, etc. to your monthly log.
The Monthly Log
The monthly log is an overview page for the month you’re moving into.
The common basics include a calendar of some sort, either a traditional box calendar or the “ryder” calendar. I’m in the camp of the ryder calendar, personally I find it easier to use.
The other aspect of the monthly log is your master task list.
In this list you write down everything you need to do this month. Make sure to use your bullet journal key to categorize the items. You add to the task list through the month as things come up and you check off things as they get completed.
The Daily Log
Finally, the daily log is where you record things in the moment.
At the beginning of the day you can see if there is anything in your task list that needs to get done today and move it to your daily. Then add to it as the day goes on.
If your partner asks you to get some milk on the way home from work, you don’t need to add it to your monthly tasks… just add it to your day!
Go ahead and add notes about how your day went, things to remember, stuff you need to schedule later.
Your daily log is really where you put things to get them out of your head and down on paper. Once it’s on paper you can organize it.
Ok, so there are your “core collections”. Now to the fun stuff, custom bullet journal collections.
Custom bullet journal collections
Here is where the fun begins!
Really everything in your bullet journal is a collection of some sort. Since the bullet journal system is supposed to be fully customizable and flexible, you can feel free to add anything you want.
Collection Ideas
Trackers
Of course trackers of all sorts are collections you can add to your journal!
Mood trackers
Things you want to do
Many people add lists of things they want to do as collections in their bullet journal.
Books to Read
Shows/Movies to Watch
Bucket lists
Things to make your life easier
You can make a collection for things that you do often so that you don’t have to make the same list over and over again.
Master Grocery List
Master Packing List
Important Contact Information
Passwords
The Sentimental stuff
Gift Ideas
Wish lists
Monthly Memories
Reviews
To sum up bullet journal collections
Collections are ways to keep like information with like information.
Your bullet journal is down for whatever, so add things in as much or as little as you like. As long as you title it and add it to your index you’ll be able to find and use it time after time.
The basic collections are there to keep you organized and give you a space to put events, tasks and notes.
The custom bullet journal collections is where you get to have fun and show your personality. Remember the mission of the bullet journal is to track the past, organize the present and plan for the future.
Build the collections that help you do just that.
