How to Make a Digital Planner Overview

Creating a Digital Planner in Canva

One of the easiest beginner apps to use is Canva. Keep in mind that there are limitations to this app, but for the sake of instruction we’ll break down how many creators use Canva. 

(Please note that Key2Success does NOT use Canva to create our planners. Ours use advanced software and involves a meticulous development process to make sure it’s the absolute best professional planner on the market!)

Creating a digital planner step-by-step can be a fun and rewarding process. Here’s a guide to help you design your own digital planner using Canva and export it for use in apps like GoodNotes or Notability:

Step 1: Plan Your Layout

Before you begin designing, decide on the following:

• Planner Style: Daily, weekly, or monthly planner?
• Sections: To-do lists, habit trackers, notes, goal-setting?
• Aesthetic: Minimalist, colorful, themed?

Step 2: Sign Up and Log into Canva

1. Go to Canva.
2. Create a free account (or log in if you already have one).

Step 3: Choose Custom Size

1. On the Canva dashboard, click the “Create a Design” button at the top right.
2. Select “Custom Size.”
   • Set your dimensions to match the device or platform you’ll use it on:
     • Standard Size for Planners: 8.5 x 11 inches (letter size), or A4 size for universal compatibility.
3. Click “Create New Design.”

Step 4: Design the Planner Pages

1. Background Color:

   • In the blank canvas, click the background and select a color or pattern.
   • Choose a clean, aesthetic background that fits your planner style.

2. Create Headers & Sections:

   • Go to the “Elements” tab on the left to add shapes (rectangles, lines, etc.) to organize your planner.
   • Use the “Text” tool to add titles like “Weekly Planner,” “To-Do List,” “Goals,” or “Daily Focus.”

3. Insert Grids or Lines:

   • Add grids or line elements for daily slots, notes, or to-do lists.
   • Search for “lines” in Elements and use them to create dividers between days or tasks.

4. Add Icons or Illustrations (Optional):

   • Search for planner icons (e.g., checkboxes, stars, and bullet points) in Elements.
   • Use them to add extra detail and make your planner more engaging.

5. Choose Fonts & Style:

   • Customize your text by choosing fonts that reflect your aesthetic.
   • Canva offers a variety of font combinations, so experiment to find one that works.

Step 5: Create Multiple Pages

1. Add more pages: If you need additional pages for different layouts (like monthly and daily planners), click “Add Page.”
2. Duplicate pages: If you want consistency across your planner, click the “Duplicate Page” button and make minor adjustments.
   • You can create templates for weekly, monthly, or daily spreads.

Step 6: Add Hyperlinks (for Interactive PDFs)

1. Select the element (e.g., a date or day of the week).
2. Click the “Link” icon in the top toolbar.
3. Enter the URL, or select “Go to page” and choose the page within the planner.
   • This allows you to jump to specific pages when the planner is used in apps like GoodNotes.

Step 7: Download the Planner as a PDF

1. Once you’ve designed your entire planner, click “Share” in the top-right corner.
2. Select “Download.”
3. Choose PDF Standard or PDF Print (for higher quality).
4. Make sure to check the option for “Flattened PDF with hyperlinks” if you want the interactive features.

Step 8: Import Your Planner into a Note-Taking App

1. Open GoodNotes or Notability (or your preferred app).
2. Import the PDF you just created:
   • In GoodNotes: Tap “New,” then “Import,” and select your PDF.
   • In Notability: Tap the “+” icon, then “Import.”
3. Test hyperlinks and usability to ensure everything functions smoothly.

Step 9: Add Extra Touches (Optional)

If you’re using an app that supports handwriting or drawing, consider:

• Annotating with a stylus.
• Adding custom stickers or decorations.