I have a planner notebook thing now but I was using a whiteboard like Pumpkin. I'd just spend some time looking at pinterest for recipe ideas and write out what i'm planning on cooking for the week. Then I make a list for the extra stuff I need and yeah! It helps when I have a busier schedule. If I have more time in my day, like on weekends, I don't plan as much. It helps though with my working schedule and structure.