Xournal0.4.8

If you're using the internet for documentation you most likely also have an open text editor at hand to easily save important details. A large variety of office suites and editors are available, with Xournal being one of them. It's a simple utility you can use to quickly take notes, draw sketches and export your result to PDF.

Simple, well-organized interface

The application holds all of its features in a pleasant interface, with most space dedicated to editing. The upper toolbar is equipped with all kids of size, shape and color selection options, as well as available creation tools.

Customize the page layout

You can customize the page to make it suit your style and needs. Several preset options let you select layouts such as lined, graph or plain paper. Additionally, size can also be specified in case you want to later on print out your work.

Good but far from being a pro

Tools you get to work with include a pen, eraser and text input. By default, drawing is activated, with customization options only allowing you to set color and choose one of the four fixed size specifications. The pen can also be used in correlation with a ruler to draw straight lines.There is an included tool with which to draw rectangles and circles, but it's based on your freehand drawing to automatically detect the shape you want, with the result being slightly difficult to get right. The application also lets you insert text anywhere you click on the page. However, it gets disturbing when you quickly have to write something down or arrange page elements.

To end with

All things considered, Xournal has a little more to learn before it can fully live up to expectations. It tries to bundle up many features that perfectly coexist, but they offer little variety and customization options, getting stuck somewhere along the way. It's not the best text or drawing utility out there, but can come in handy for taking notes in a fun environment.