What are Sketchnotes?
Sketchnotes are rich visual notes created from a mix of handwriting, drawings, hand-lettering, shapes, and visual elements like arrows, boxes, and lines.
Sketchnotes don't require special drawing skills, but do require you to listen and visually synthesize and summarize ideas by using writing and drawing. Here are a few samples of what sketchnotes can look like:
The Sketchnoting Origin Story
In late 2006, note-taking had become a burden. I had become a great verbatim note-taker, but I hated my process of note-taking. I took overly-detailed notes in large, lined notebooks, with pencil, so I could erase any mistakes. I was like a court reporter, trying to capture every detail — but I wasn’t comprehending and always felt I was missing something.
In early 2007, I decided to experiment with a new approach. I attended a design conference and limited my tools to a small pocket-sized Moleskine notebook and a gel pen. The noteook was too small to write everything I had in the large book and the pen made me stop can consider what went on the page, since I couldn’t erase mistakes.
These limitations led me to less writing and more being in the moment to listen, analyze and capture the big ideas I was hearing, seeing and thinking about. I had more time for lettering and drawing, so I called this visual note-taking process sketchnotes because it was a mix of sketches and notes, together.
I was having fun taking notes, and realized there must be others out there who would benefit from my new idea, so I began testing it, sharing it and teaching it.
Writing Books on Sketchnoting
In 2011, I was given the opportunity to create a new book to teach people sketchnoting with Peachpit.com, so we really pushed the boundaries on that book. It was designed to teach sketchnoting as a sketchnote, with lots of samples from other people from around the world, in addition to my own story and teaching.
The Sketchnote Handbook
This fully-illustrated book is designed to teach regular people, without any drawing skills, how to create sketchnotes. You’ll learn how to capture your thinking visually, remember key information more clearly, and share what you've learned with others. Have fun taking notes again!
The Sketchnote Workbook
This fully-illustrated book and 2 hour video is the sequel to The Sketchnote Handbook, that shows you how you to use sketchnotes in your everyday life to brainstorm ideas, plan projects, document processes, record your travels, start a visual food journal. Learn how sketchnotes help you think better!
Learn more about The Sketchnote Workbook
Teaching Sketchnotes
Over the years I’ve taught sketchnoting to people around the world hundreds of times and most recently, I’ve focused my teaching online. My most recent workshop focused on lettering skills for sketchnoters, but I’ve also taught sketching to schools, universities and Fortune 500 companies.
I’ve gathered teaching examples below. If you are interested in teaching, check out my Workshops page for more information on customized workshops I offer.
The Sketchnote Mini Workshop
This 32 minute YouTube video explains who I am, the basics of sketchnoting and a fun exercise to test out your new sketchnoting skills. Great for beginners!
5 Basic Elements of Drawing
If you only have 15 minutes, this gives you the quickest way to draw simply in your sketchnotes.
Printable Sketchnoting Resources
Here are free downloadable and printable sketchnoting resources from my sketchnoting books:
The Sketchnote Handbook (PDFs)
Use coupon code ROHDE40 for 40% off
The Sketchnote Handbook at Peachpit.com
The Sketchnote Workbook (PDFs)
Use coupon code ROHDE40 for 40% off
The Sketchnote Workbook at Peachpit.com
Sketchnoting Videos and Audio
The Sketchnote Podcast (videos)
Watch 10 episodes of drawing tips, sketchnote critiques and more on video with my Sketchnote Video Podcast.
The Sketchnote Army Podcast (audio)
Listen to sketchnoters from around the world as they share their wisdom, mindsets and tips! Check out the 100+ episodes in the library of great interviews on the Sketchnote Army Podcast.
Here’s a sample of tips from season 14:
Sketchnote Live Workshop Set (video)
The Sketchnote Live Workshop Set includes all 3 of my in-depth workshops: lettering. layout, and icons, for $50.
Meditative Sketchnote Workshop (video)
Watch as Ben Norris and I guide you through the use of sketchnoting as a meditative practice.
Jude Pullen reviews The Sketchnote Handbook
More about Mike Rohde
Learn more about me and my experience or contact me on my about page.