These marks are part of rapid logging, Ryder Carroll’s short-form notation for a paper journal. A bullet tells you what kind of entry you wrote. A signifier adds context beside that bullet. The distinction matters because an appointment is an event, while “book an appointment” is a task.
Core bullet-journal symbols
| Mark | Meaning | Example |
|---|---|---|
| • | Open task: something to do | • Send the draft to the editor |
| X | Completed task; change the task dot to X | X Send the draft to the editor |
| > | Migrated task; rewrite it in the next monthly log or a collection | > Plan the launch page |
| < | Scheduled task; rewrite it in the future log | < Renew the domain in March |
| O | Event or experience | O Client meeting at 10:00 |
| – | Note: information that is not itself an action | – Client prefers a shorter headline |
If a task is no longer relevant, strike through the whole line. Do not mark it X: completed and discarded mean different things. The official Bullet Journal introduction describes this review as part of migration.
Signifiers go beside a bullet
| Mark | Use | Example |
|---|---|---|
| * | Priority | * • Send the draft before noon |
| ! | Inspiration or an idea to revisit | ! – Interview angle for next week |
| Eye | Explore: more research or information needed | Eye – Check the original study |
Carroll places signifiers to the left of a bullet. The star does not replace the task dot; it tells you which task deserves attention. Draw the eye however you can recognize it quickly. A small mark is more useful in a handwritten log than a detailed emoji.
Custom marks: useful, but not part of the core key
Some journalers use a triangle for a deadline and a diamond for a task waiting on someone else. Those can be helpful personal marks. They are not required or presented as official Bullet Journal symbols. If you adopt one, write its meaning on a key page and use it consistently.
A deadline often needs the date written beside the task; a separate shape alone cannot tell you when it is due. For waiting work, note who owns the next step and when you will follow up. For example: “◇ Draft approval — waiting for Sam; check Friday.” If that level of detail does not help you, a plain task bullet and short note are enough.
How to use the key without making it complicated
- Begin with the three entry bullets: task, event and note.
- At review time, complete, migrate, schedule or strike through open tasks.
- Add a signifier only when you repeatedly need to spot that kind of entry.
- Keep a small key in the front of the notebook if you use custom marks.
For page setup, see our first-pages guide. The method guide shows where the logs and migration fit together. A paper key helps you review your notes; it does not replace a calendar alarm for a time-sensitive appointment.
Frequently asked questions
What does a dot mean in a bullet journal?
A dot (•) marks an open task—something you need to do. Change it when the task is completed, migrated or scheduled.
What is the difference between > and < in bullet journaling?
A right arrow (>) means a task moved forward to a new monthly log or collection. A left arrow (<) means it was scheduled in the future log.
What symbol should I use for an event?
Use an open circle or O for an event, such as a meeting, birthday or something that happened.
What symbol should I use for a note?
Use a dash (–) for information, an observation or an idea that is not immediately an action.
Does a star replace a task bullet?
No. The star is a priority signifier placed beside a bullet; the task itself still uses a dot or its updated state.
Are the triangle and diamond official Bullet Journal symbols?
No. They are optional personal marks. Define them in your key if you use them, and include a date or owner where needed.
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