The start of your journal is where some of the most important pages will live!
Below you will see a selection of examples from our wonderful Creative Team. A huge thank you to Alex, Gemma, and Claire for sharing their journal spreads.
DISCLAIMER – It’s your journal, you don’t have to include ANY of these if you don’t feel they will work for you!
Cover Page
A bullet journal cover page is maybe not a true “fundamental” but a nice place to start. Add your name and some decoration if you like!




Image 1 @oopsadaisyuk, Image 2 and 3 – @thejournalcorner, Image 4 @clairelettersandmore.
Key
A bullet journal key is where you set out the specific signifiers you will use throughout your journal. These may include simple crosses and arrows, or more complicated symbols.
Below is an example of the key I use in my journal. It is very simple but works for me!

Index
A Bullet Journal index is a method of keeping track of the spreads and collections in your journal. Each new spread is added to the index with a page number reference.
Generally, I don’t use an index. Way back when I first started I tried one out but never remembered to add to it after the initial set-up. Instead I now opt for calendar tab stickers as they help me navigate around my journal quickly and without needing to number my pages!


Future Log
A future log is a spread, usually at the start of a bullet journal, where you can add all your future events for the whole year. These may be dates that recur every year (like birthdays or anniversaries) or specific to the upcoming year (Eg. A concert you have tickets for). Typically, the rest of your bullet journal will be set up as you go along, so having a future log is a good way to make sure you don’t forget important dates.




Image 1 and 2 – @thejournalcorner, Image 3 @gem_plansandletters, Image 4 @clairelettersandmore.
Join us to set up your next journal!
Check out “Journal With Oops a Daisy” a 6 week programme to support you through journal set-up and beyond!
The programme is totally free to join with a small donation* to our chosen charity: St Clare Hospice, Hastingwood via our Just Giving page.
*No minimum, give what you can afford. Access to the resources is granted for 12 weeks after sign up.
