Diary and Journal Templates

Writing in a diary can be a wonderful experience that opens you up to all kinds of new thoughts and perspectives, but it can be difficult to get started at times. Working with a diary template and journal prompts can make that easier.

Using Diary Templates

Using journal templates for your diary gives you a format and set of guidelines that you can use to fill in an entry. While every diary is different, adhering to or working off the following generic template works:

• First, introduce the topic/experience.
• Secondly, write about the importance or influence of the topic.
• Next, discuss your feelings about the experience.
• Next, conclude with final observations and attempt to end positively.
• Lastly, write down any follow-up tasks you want to complete in the future that relate to this diary entry.

Regardless of what you plan to write, a diary template gives you a clear picture of how to approach your diary. It doesn't have to be followed strictly, but rather as an organizational tool that gives your journal the structure and flow it needs.

Types of Journal Templates

If you want to begin keeping a diary, consider the type of diary it is and then use the appropriate template to help you get started. Some popular types of diary templates include:

• Food Diary: A food journal template should start with what you ate and when you ate it, and then go on to describe how you feel about the dish (both before and after). Nutritional information can also be added.
• Travel Journal: A travel diary should begin by describing the place you are going to visit and expectations and thoughts you have beforehand. Once there, describe the place you are visiting, your experiences there, and your observations. When you return home, record final thoughts and feelings about the trip.
• Reflective Diary: For a reflective journal template, the topic should be your personal thoughts and emotions, so start by describing that. Then you can go on to talk about why you have such feelings or opinions before concluding by talking about what direction or action you can take.
• Daily Diary: A daily diary describes what occurred each day. Hence, you should first summarize the events for that day. Then, reflect on those experiences.
• Idea Diary: An idea diary is a bit more complicated, as this type of diary relies on moments of inspiration and creativity. However, a good idea diary template should first have a brainstorming section and then a section for formulate concrete ideas.

No matter what type of diary you plan to keep, first look over an example diary template or two. This will make starting and maintaining a cohesive journal much simpler. When searching for the best diary template for your journal, look for formats that suit your preferences and writing skills.