5 essential apps to make online learning easier

How much time do you spend facing a screen? 4, 5, or 6 hours a day? If you’re topping 6 hours of screen-time, you’re going to want to make the time you spend on your device as efficient as possible. Utilizing what the internet has to offer, whether it be Google extensions or apps for your phone or laptop, will definitely lighten your digital load. 

Here are five apps you need in your digital workspace to make online learning easier: 

Google Workspace (a.k.a. The powerhouse 💪)

From group projects to personal productivity, Google Workspace is the all-in-one app system for your student needs. Combining Google Docs, Sheets, Slides, and Drive is the ultimate collaborative learning experience for students. With these apps, say goodbye to having to send documents to each other for revisions. 

Another hack is using Google Calendar together with Google Keep and Gmail. When accessing Google Calendar, easily open your Keep notes through the right-hand panel. Link your Keep notes to calendar blocks or instantly set calendar events straight from an email. All apps are smoothly integrated into one another which is what makes the network so easy to use!

Learn more about Google apps here. 

Flow

Out of all the Pomodoro timers available, Flow will be the most aesthetic add-on to your digital workspace. Of course, this app features the basics for any timer such as adjustable breaks and work durations as well as cute notifications for when the duration ends. Breaking up long periods of study time into bite-sized durations has been proved to help limit distractions and make work more efficient. 

Flow stands out because of its seamless integration into your desktop. The timer is primarily found on the upper menu bar rather than as an app on your home screen. This makes it easily accessible while studying without having to open the app. Plus points for its minimalist design that could snag a spot on your Pinterest feed!   

Learn more about Flow here.

Quizlet (Flashcards)

Quizlet is a popular flashcard app that allows you to make your own set of flashcards for topics you’re studying or review from flashcards made by other students. The app features three modes of learning to fit your needs: Match, Learn, and Write. 

Using flashcards in combination with spaced repetition (a study method where you repeatedly study a topic following a spaced schedule) will help you remember more of what you studied! This flattens your forgetting curve and improves your ability to recall information. 

However, when reviewing topics that require more in-depth reasoning and application of concepts, flashcards might not cut it. The next app might be the hack for you if this is something you’re struggling with! 

Learn more about Quizlet here.

SimpleMind (Mind-Mapping)

SimpleMind is an intuitive mind mapping app. Use mind mapping to identify connections, patterns, and details when studying complex concepts. Notably, its free version features an unlimited page size, a free form layout, and options to easily add media to your maps. If you’re a visual learner, you’ll definitely benefit from this study method!

Aside from learning new concepts, it’s also great for when you’re writing essays since it helps you connect your ideas and improve the flow of your work. Easily save your mind maps and expand them as much as necessary by creating them digitally through SimpleMind. 

Learn more about SimpleMind here.

Headspace (Meditation) 

Learning may get overwhelming, but that’s alright! Overcome your pre-exam jitters with guided meditation! Headspace is an app focused on helping you become mindful, stress-free, and focused— perfect for burnt-out students! They have a library of guided meditations for people of all different levels of experience. Headspace even has a section dedicated to getting good sleep! Why not catch some Zs to get those As? 

Through meditation, you are able to create a safe environment for your mind to pause, observe, and reset, thus improving your overall emotional well-being. Even though you’re aiming for that laude, don’t forget to take care of your mental health too.   

Learn more about Headspace here. 

Adapting to online learning is and will continue to be a struggle. Productivity and good study habits aren’t the end-all, be-all of succeeding in school. Take time to check in on yourself too— downloading apps like Netflix and Messenger for interaction and self-care are essential as well. If you’re looking for more student hacks, explore our page for tips on staying focused while learning online and more! 

Art by Angela Pabilona