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AWESOME APPS YOU SHOULD KNOW
DISTRACTION BLOCKERS
Self Controlallows you to block any site on all browsers for any period you like. The restrictions you put in place are irreversible until the timer completely runs out. I like to block Facebook for 3 hours when I need to focus on my studies. *Mac only
Todobookturns Facebook into a productivity toolby hiding your recent Facebook updates and your newsfeed. It does so by replacing it with a to-do list instead which forces you to be productive in order to get the “reward” of News Feed access. Seriously, check this one out!
Forest prevents you from constantly checking your phone. It’s an effective alternative to the Pomodoro technique (time management method). You can improve your self-control by using the app to grow a tree under a set timer. If you exit the app to check messages or use other apps, the plant will die.
LANGUAGES AND LEARNING
Quizlet (quizlet.com) can be used make free digital flashcards. It’ll help you keep organised as you can create folders and class sets according to subject. I find myselfusing it at random times such as in the car, on the bus or the train etc. – how convenient right?!
YourTutor (studiosity.com) can be used to help you with subjects you are having trouble with by connecting you to qualified expert tutors. You can ask questions, solve them, and even send in your draft essays, returned within 24hrs with personal feedback on how you can improve. It’s free as well!*check if your school is a partner
Create an ATARnotes account. The website contains a lot of useful notes which you can download and even use to improve your own notes.
Duolingo tracks your progress as you use flashcards and other useful tools to learn another language. It’s super easy and completely free to use!
ORGANISATION AND SHARING
Wunderlust is great if youlove making lists, and sub-lists and setting digital reminders. It syncs across multiple devices so you can get things done while accessing it from anywhere, at anytime.
If you like everything to be in one place you might like to try the My Study Life. You can track your tasks, manage your timetable, get reminders for unfinished tasks and store exams for revision. It also syncs across multiple devices, allowing you to use the app when offline.
POMODORO TIMERS
Taking breaks while you study is important, as is staying in focus for set periods of time. Productivity challenge is a simple timer app which records you’re the time you spend on each task and gives you fun achievements and ranks based on it.
Be focused is another app based on the pomodoro technique. It’s a great way to make sure you are regularly taking breaks to let your brain recover, and at the same time, track how much time you spend working in the day. I would aim for 3 Pomodoros a night.
LIGHT AND SOUND
Download the program fl.ux on your computer. It adjusts the light levels and colour tones of your screen according to your location and time of the day. It reduces eyestrain during nighttime, making you sleep a lot better!
Noisli allows you to play different types of sounds to help you block out surrounding noise. My personal favourite is the rain; it’s quite comforting!
CoffeeAM recreates various coffee shop ambiences intended to increase your creativity and focus. The usefulness of the white noise is backed by a scientific research from the University Chicago.*iPhone only
MEDITATION
Use Smiling Mind to improve your mental health and wellbeing. The app contains programs covering everything from productivity, general calmness, and academic success to even mindful eating.I like to use it before I start studying or when I need to wind down before bedtime.
Headspace is another popular meditation app you can use to help reduce your stress, stay focused and look after yourself during an important yet hectic time of the year.
EXERCISE AND HEALTH
Sometimes you don’t have the time or the money to hit the gym. The 7 minute workout app is ideal for you if you just need short power-bursts throughout the day (recommended to perform in three sets total).
Lifesum helps you make better food choices, improve your exercise habits and reach your personal health goals. It contains reminders such as drinking more water, feedback to improve the quality of what you eat, tips for tougher days and healthy recipes.
*not a weightloss app