Blog #3: Reflecting on writing digitally

 

Blog #3: Reflection on Using a Digital Writer’s Notebook


            Using a digital writer’s notebook was a meaningful experience that helped me think about my writing process in new ways. In many ways, it felt similar to writing the traditional way. I was still able to brainstorm freely, capture ideas quickly, reflect on my thoughts, and return to earlier entries to revise or expand them. The sense of personal space, a place where my voice, feelings, and creative thoughts could unfold, was also the same. Just like a handwritten notebook, the digital version became a space for growth, discovery, and honest expression.

However, the process was also very different. The digital notebook offered tools that a physical notebook cannot.   It afforded the ability to reorganize ideas easily, type quickly, add images and links especially while using Canva and edit without leaving marks behind. I was able to store many drafts in one place, search for past entries instantly, and use digital features like highlighting, commenting, among others. These options made the writing process feel faster, more flexible, and less restricted by the permanence of handwriting. At the same time, the digital format sometimes lacked the intimate, tactile feeling of writing on paper.  It is difficult not to miss making repeated scratches while writing drafts or having to erase entire paragraphs while writing with a pencil.  Added to that, it was easier to get distracted by notifications or other digital tasks.

Using digital media to support the writing process comes with clear benefits. It encourages efficiency, organization, and easy revision. It supports multimodal expression through the use of video, and images, which can enhance creativity and deepen reflection. It also ensures that work is backed up and accessible from multiple devices.

However, there are drawbacks. Typing can sometimes feel less personal than handwriting, and the speed of digital writing may limit the slow, thoughtful pace that handwriting encourages. Technical issues or device limitations can interrupt the writing flow, and the temptation to multitask can affect focus.

Overall, using a digital writer’s notebook expanded my understanding of what reflective writing can look like. It offered convenience and creativity while still fostering the same introspection and personal voice I would expect from a traditional notebook. This experience helped me recognize the value of both formats and how each can support different aspects of the writing process.

Comments

  1. Mrs. Dee Phillip4 December 2025 at 06:16

    Nice piece Curlyn! I really enjoyed reading this! You captured the balance between digital and traditional writing so clearly. I like how you pointed out that both formats create a personal space for ideas to grow, but each shapes the process differently. The digital notebook definitely brings flexibility, organization, and creative options like adding images or links, while the paper version keeps that tactile, intimate feel that slows you down in a good way, which I love and appreciate so much. It’s great that you’re noticing how each medium influences your thinking, using them side by side really does make you more adaptable as a writer.

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  2. CurlynK⁴B4 December 2025 at 12:53

    thank you deci...i enjoy writing using pen and paper..but i'm also trying to enjoy writing digitally, after all it is a work in process. i won't stop using traditional medium to write but my new found love for canva would encourage lots of digital writing

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  3. CuriousBarbz4 December 2025 at 15:35

    Curlyn your written piece really highlighted specific challenges and benefits that affected mostly those of us who rarely or have never used the computers so often before. It really did make one reflect on everything pertaining to use of electronics and its benefits compared to traditional writing and teaching ways.

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