If you aren't using the right calendar app, you can get stuck skipping from one app to another. While most calendar apps offer some flexibility, going generic isn't always the best call. Odds are, you need more focus on some functions than others.

Here are five calendar types, with tips on how to select a good calendar for each one. By making an informed choice, you can increase your productivity.

1. Basic Calendars

Basic Calendar with Highlighter Pen
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Basic calendars are simple, no-frills calendars. They can be a minimalist option for those with static schedules. It's also good for people who need a little of everything. Choose a basic calendar if you don't need specialized features.

This simplicity works well if you tend to get distracted by a lot of specific options. If it takes too long to set up a new event or note, that can become its own time-sink. You should be able to hide or disable any features you don't need.

A good basic calendar should keep things streamlined. It should let you add things with only a click or two. Look for a calendar that has preset templates to speed things up even more.

Lastly, flexibility is key. Choose a calendar that can integrate with lots of other apps. But if you start using those other apps more than the base calendar functions, it might be time to consider specializing.

2. Schedule Calendars

schedule calendar on desktop computer

A schedule calendar helps you manage a complicated array of events and appointments. It can help students manage their classes, clubs, and jobs. It's also good for freelancers with multiple clients.

Good schedule calendars offer a by-the-minute planner view. This precision helps you avoid over-commitment and double-bookings. Other features to look for include traffic and weather estimations.

The best scheduling calendars are also flexible. Colleagues and other invitees shouldn't need an account to view it. You may also want control over who can make changes. Integration with a wide array of chat apps is helpful, too.

3. Project Calendars

Project Calendar on laptop
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A project-management calendar is good for detailed plans. They combine a standard calendar with a robust to-do list. If you often have many interdependent tasks, a good project calendar is essential.

Often, you need to look outside the calendar's category into project management software. These apps support a calendar view, but the calendar itself is only one aspect. The tasks and division of labor get more focus.

A good project calendar should allow lots of detail for each part of the project. Users should be able to attach files, web links, locations, and more. It should allow you to rank tasks by priority, and break big tasks into smaller steps.

The option to view the calendar as a project GANTT chart is also helpful. The app should default to this view, if possible. It should also have a feature for progress reports and time estimations. Reliable and real-time syncing is crucial.

4. Journal Calendars

Journal prompt calendar on a wood table
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For a focus on wellness, choose a journal calendar. These calendars create a record of your wellness journey. They work well if you want to organize your thoughts and feelings as well as your plans.

Journal calendars also work for those who want to stretch their creative muscles. You can find calendars with daily prompts and inspiring quotes. These come in both paper and digital versions.

For an effective journal calendar, customization is key. The calendar should support multimedia attachments, such as sketching, voice recordings, and photos. This lets you capture thoughts and feelings that aren't easy to put into words.

Quick-entry is also useful for making notes on the go. As with basic calendars, templates that you can fill out quickly are a great feature for this calendar type. Lastly, you can add journal entries as events in nearly any calendar, but the best will offer built-in mood-tracking charts, too.

5. Tracker Calendar

Goal Tracking calendar in a paper planner
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While journals focus on creating a record, trackers are about looking forward. With a tracker calendar, you decide what you're aiming for and when to work on it. The calendar keeps you accountable and motivated by tracking progress toward your goals.

A good tracking calendar will prompt you to schedule time to actually pursue your goals. Ideally, it should do this while taking your current commitments into account. For instance, Google Calendar's goals avoid overlapping with your other appointments.

The best tracker calendars also provide accountability. Look for sharing options that let you compete with friends. These apps should also integrate with social media, so you can share your progress.

Use the Right Calendar to Supercharge Your Productivity

Like anything else, selecting a calendar app is about understanding your needs. Once you know what type of calendar you need, you can choose an app that works well for you, and optimize it.

By focusing on the features you need most, a specialized calendar can help you manage your time.