Doodling is a visual art form — typically described as semi-subconscious scribbles made while occupied with something else. It looks like nothing. But it's actually doing a lot. I find doodling one of the most useful tools in my practice for freeing my mind or unpicking an idea, and the science backs that up too.
What Is Doodling? More Than Random Scribbles
There are no rules to doodling — nothing needs to "qualify". Because it's practiced in a semi-subconscious state, with the creator not really paying attention to the output, doodling has long been associated with boredom or idle time. It's often seen as a child-like behaviour, but doodles appear just as often in adults — anyone in a daydream state or with a wandering mind. The lack of rules is precisely the point. It's also deeply connected to why play is so important in creativity.
Doodling Keeps Your Brain Focused and Engaged
Far from "doing nothing", doodling has developed into a recognised mental exercise with real benefits. It enhances creativity skills and keeps the brain engaged even during dull or passive situations — like listening in a long meeting or class. Research by Professor Jackie Andrade at the University of Plymouth found that people who doodled retained memories significantly better than those who kept their minds inactive. J.K. Rowling frequently doodled her Harry Potter characters to visualise and describe them more vividly — proof that doodling and serious creative thinking go hand in hand. It's also a natural extension of why drawing is good for you more broadly.
Doodling as Stress Relief: Why It Works
Doodling acts as a genuine stress reliever. It doesn't only happen when the mind is empty — it also kicks in when the mind is overloaded. When there's too much going on, doodling provides an outlet for releasing pent-up tension and unease. The rhythmic, low-pressure nature of it gives the brain somewhere to go without demanding too much.
How Doodling Unlocks Creativity
When one looks closely at doodling, the drawing style does a surprising amount for mental state and overall wellbeing. It improves mood, sharpens focus, boosts memory, and opens up creative thinking. For artists especially, doodling is often where the best ideas begin — a sketch in the margins that becomes the seed of something much bigger. If you want to keep that creative momentum going, it's worth exploring 10 ways to stay creative.
See Doodling in Barrie's Artwork
Check out the doodles and drawings woven into the background of this painting:
Wanderer above the Sea of Media — Mixed media on Paper (unframed), A1 size 59cm x 84cm.
Also read: Why humorous art is good for you.
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