How to Actually Keep Track of Your TBR (Without the Chaos)

Let’s be real: between school, work, and life, all I really want to do is sit down with a good book. But sometimes, my TBR list feels so overwhelming that I don’t know where to start. We’ve all been there, right? You screenshot a book cover, save it to your Notes, or add it to Goodreads… then never go back to it. Why do we do this?

I think it’s because we trick ourselves into thinking we’ll remember, but we never do. We save it for “later,” and later never comes. Out of sight, out of mind.

Why Do We Do This?

Screenshots feel like we’ve done the work, but they’re buried in our phone and forgotten. Notes apps get cluttered, and Goodreads often just becomes another list to ignore. It’s easy to feel like you’re losing track of books you’re excited about.

So, How Do We Fix It?

Here are a few better ways to keep your TBR from feeling like a mountain:

1. A Dedicated TBR Journal

Write it down! Whether it’s a cute notebook or a bullet journal, putting your TBR on paper helps you remember. There’s something so satisfying about writing things down. Sure, it’s more work than adding a book to Goodreads or typing it into your Notes app, but the act of physically writing down books makes it feel more real. 

2. Pinterest Board for Books

I know, Pinterest is already a rabbit hole of inspiration and distractions, but hear me out: creating a Pinterest board for your TBR books is actually a fun way to track your list visually.

3. Physical Book Tracker

If you’re into tangible things, get a book tracker or reading calendar. It’ll keep your TBR front and center so you never forget what you’re excited to read next.

4. Goodreads (Used Right!)

I know, I know. You probably hate Goodreads by now, but hear me out. Instead of just creating a vague TBR list and letting it collect dust, use it in a more structured way. Try organizing your books into lists (i.e., genres, read soon, recommendations, etc.) or even set a goal for how many books you want to read each month. Keep it interactive, so it’s more than just a “dumping ground” for books you forget about.

The Bottom Line

Between school, work, and everything else, the last thing I want is my TBR list to stress me out. I just want to read! By using a system that works for you—whether it’s a journal, Pinterest, or a better way to use Goodreads—you can keep track of your TBR without feeling overwhelmed. The goal is to keep the excitement of reading alive, not let the list become another chore! 📚✨