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GoodNotes Basics: Getting Started with Digital Note-Taking

Tap through the steps in order to see how it works.

  1. Create a new document

    Tap the "+" button in GoodNotes to start a new document, and choose a paper style such as blank, grid, or lined.

  2. Select the pen tool and start writing

    Pick a pen from the toolbar at the top, adjust its thickness and color, and write with an Apple Pencil or your finger.

  3. Add and navigate between pages

    Add new pages from the bottom bar or sidebar, and tap the page thumbnails to jump quickly to the one you need.

  4. Organize documents into folders

    Create new folders from the main screen to sort your documents by subject, project, or however makes sense for you.

  5. Why it's useful

    You get the freedom of handwriting on paper combined with digital features like search, copy, and cloud backup, which makes it a strong fit for both study notes and work documentation.

It feels like paper, but behaves like software

The pen and paper textures are designed to mimic a real notebook, but underneath you still get things paper cannot do β€” searchable handwriting, instant duplication of pages, and automatic backup so a lost device does not mean lost notes.

Start simple before customizing further

It is tempting to dive into templates and custom paper styles right away, but getting comfortable with the basic pen tool, page navigation, and folder structure first makes everything you add later β€” templates, PDF annotation, hyperlinked tabs β€” much easier to pick up.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need an Apple Pencil to use GoodNotes?

No, you can write with your finger, though a stylus with pressure sensitivity, such as an Apple Pencil, gives a noticeably more natural and precise writing experience.

Will my notes sync across my devices?

Yes, if you are signed in with the same account and have iCloud (or the app's equivalent sync feature) enabled, your documents stay in sync across your devices automatically.