Depends on the witch. I think we all need some sort of journal or blog of what we’re doing and learning. It’s really helpful to be able to look back at what you’ve done, especially as you learn more and try new things out. And not just magical things, but your thoughts in general and daily life is very important to write about.

Witches that connect with nature like to get an idea of how different things influence them magically and mundanely, like moon phases, weather, and time of the year, so recording this information when you journal can be very enlightening.

As for the ever popular compendium of spells, chants, rituals and the like is an invaluable thing to have, especially as you grow to write your own. Some witches are able to make these up on the fly, but it’s still nice to go back and see all you’ve done.

When copying down a spell or bit of information from a book or website, be sure to note the website, author, and book. I can’t tell you how many times I scribbled and interesting tidbit thinking I’d get back to the site later and realize I forgot where I found it. Very frustrating.

That said, whatever book you choose, you may call it what you like as long as you aren’t in a specific coven or path. If you are, then you’ll have teachers to let you know what they call their group BOS.

Rev. Don on the MagickTV channel on YouTube answered this question by saying that he feels record keeping is an important part of Wicca and Witchcraft because you can reflect on past mistakes and achievements and see your progress. He also says that he thinks it takes more than one huge book, bur rather a lot of little books. I agree with him, but would also like to add that whether it be one book or a library of shadows, it’s important to have information, correspondences, rituals, spells, etc. on hand so you don’t have to remember it all in your head.

it does depend….. you are more likely to have one if you want to teach the pratice