Nayra Jain
Jun 25, 2025
Long before notebooks, humans were scribbling on cave walls and pottery. Ancient cultures, including Egyptians and Greeks, used basic drawings for storytelling, record-keeping, and expression.
Image Source: Meta-AI
In the 17th century, ‘doodle’ was slang for a simpleton. Its association with casual drawings emerged much later, evolving to mean spontaneous, thoughtless sketches.
Image Source: Meta-AI
Winston Churchill, Ronald Reagan, and even Indian leaders like Jawaharlal Nehru were known to doodle during meetings—often using the act to improve concentration and clarity.
Image Source: Meta-AI
According to psychologists, doodling can enhance information retention. It activates the brain’s default mode network, keeping the mind engaged during passive tasks like listening.
Image Source: Meta-AI
Court sketches often resemble doodles in style. In early legal systems where cameras weren’t allowed, quick illustrative doodles helped convey courtroom scenes to the public.
Image Source: Meta-AI
What begins as a scribble can become fine art. Some modern artists have built entire careers on what were once seen as casual sketches, turning doodles into gallery exhibits.
Image Source: Meta-AI
Google’s homepage doodles started in 1998 as a playful out-of-office sign. Today, they celebrate people, events, and global cultures, making doodling a daily digital phenomenon.
Image Source: Meta-AI
Doodling helps kids develop motor skills and creativity. Educational psychologists say spontaneous drawing supports memory formation and emotional expression in early years.
Image Source: Meta-AI
Art therapists use doodling to reduce anxiety, process trauma, and improve mental well-being. Its free-form nature offers a safe space for emotional release and relaxation.
Image Source: Meta-AI
Celebrated annually, National Doodle Day raises money for epilepsy research. Celebrities and artists donate doodles, turning casual art into powerful fundraising tools.
Image Source: Meta-AI
Thanks For Reading!