When it comes to ghost hunting, every investigator has their favorite tool. From EMF detectors to spirit boxes, there’s a wide range of equipment used to detect paranormal activity. But one of the most underestimated and old-school tools in your kit might already be in your backpack — notebooks. These humble tools are more powerful in the paranormal field than they first appear, capable of being both a scientific logbook and a potential communication medium for spirits.
In this post, we’ll explore how notebooks are used during ghost hunts, the theory behind why they work, and how to set up and use one effectively. Whether you’re a seasoned ghost hunter or just getting started, understanding how to use notebooks can greatly enrich your investigations.
The Theory Behind Notebooks in Paranormal Investigations
At first glance, a notebook might seem like a simple observation tool—something to jot down temperature readings or EMF fluctuations. And while that’s still true, many paranormal investigators believe notebooks can serve a far deeper purpose during investigations.
1. Thoughtform Theory
Some paranormal theorists believe that environments rich in psychic energy—especially those with trauma, pain, or intense emotion—can imprint their energy onto physical objects. A clean, unused notebook set in a haunted location may act as a neutral receiver for spiritual energy. Over time, spirits may be drawn to “write” messages or impressions onto its pages. This concept is similar to automatic writing but without an active human hand involved.
2. Electromagnetic Influence
In areas of high paranormal activity, electromagnetic fields tend to spike. These fields can influence both electronics and even human perception. Paranormal researchers hypothesize that these same energy fluctuations could cause spontaneous impressions in a notebook — from mysterious marks to actual writing or symbols.
3. A Communication Portal
Several ghost hunters believe that giving spirits a “medium” — a physical object intended for communication — helps open the door to interaction. A notebook placed in a quiet environment, sometimes paired with a pen or pencil, could invite spirits to communicate in a non-intimidating way. It’s simple, low-tech, and spirits may find it easier than manipulating complicated electronic devices.
How to Use Notebooks During a Ghost Hunt
Using notebooks as a paranormal tool is easy to start, but best results come with consistency and careful documentation. Here’s a step-by-step guide to using notebooks effectively during your ghost hunting investigations.
Step 1: Selecting Your Notebook
- Material: Choose a plain notebook with minimal lines or designs. Unruled paper is often preferable as it’s easier to spot odd patterns or markings.
- Size: Go for a medium-to-large notebook so messages are easier to see and so you have more space for investigation logs.
- Dedicated Use: It’s best to dedicate a specific notebook to each location or case. This avoids contamination and helps you track patterns.
Step 2: Pre-Investigation Setup
- Cleansing: Some investigators like to spiritually cleanse the notebook using sage or palo santo. This removes any lingering energy that could skew results.
- Number the Pages: Pre-number the pages and take a picture of every blank sheet before the investigation begins for documentation purposes.
- Select a Location: Choose high-activity areas—bedrooms, basements, attics—as designated locations to place your notebook. Position it on a flat hard surface like a table or stool.
Step 3: Leave It Behind
During EVP sessions or EMF sweeps, you can leave the notebook in a quiet room while the rest of the team moves to another area. This reduces the chance of contamination. Be sure to set up a camera or even a trigger object nearby like a toy or coin to see if anything unusual happens.
Step 4: Ask for Interaction
Speak directly and respectfully to any entities in the room. Say things like:
- “We’ve left a notebook here if you want to write us a message.”
- “Feel free to draw a shape or write your name.”
- “You can move the pen or touch the pages if you’d like.”
Encouraging interaction gives entities an opportunity to try and make contact under less stressful conditions.
Step 5: Documentation
After your session, examine each page carefully. Look for:
- Random scribbles or lines
- Symbols, shapes, or letters
- Indentations as if pressure was applied but no ink was used
- Ink movement (as if the pen bled across the paper mysteriously)
Always photograph each page and note physical conditions like humidity and temperature, which could affect ink or paper. Use gloves if needed to avoid contaminating potential markings with fingerprints.
Step 6: Ongoing Use and Pattern Tracking
Some entities may need multiple sessions before they choose to interact. Keep using the notebook at different times and in different rooms. Over time, patterns may emerge. Compare notes from similar locations or haunting cases. If a particular symbol or word keeps appearing, you may have discovered a signature from a recurring spirit.
Conclusion: A Simple Yet Powerful Tool
Notebooks are often overlooked in the world of ghost hunting, but their simplicity is a massive strength. They’re affordable, easy to use, and serve multiple purposes—from meticulous logging to potentially capturing paranormal evidence.
While they may not have flashing lights or produce haunting EVPs, notebooks invite a quieter form of spirit communication. Their presence offers spirits a chance to express themselves in their own time and space. For investigators looking to deepen their connection with a location or entity, notebooks offer a fascinating and highly personal method of interaction.
So the next time you’re packing your gear, make sure to tuck a notebook or two into your bag. You never know what messages might be waiting for you beyond the veil.