Because sometimes, all we need is a little help.

Even though we spend most of our time online, it can get pretty challenging to draw the line between working from home and actually being at home. Imagine being in the comfort of your own room without the constant scrutiny of your teachers and peers. Talk about being left to your own devices. Literally. 

As we struggle to find the balance between work and play, here are a few websites and Google Chrome extensions that can help you stay productive and manage your time wisely! How many of them do you already use?

1. Pomodoro Timer

The Pomodoro Timer can be downloaded as an application or as a Google Chrome Extension. It is based on the Pomodoro Technique, a widely popular method that has been claimed to boost focus and productivity by taking 5-minute breaks every 25 minutes. Rest is just as important as the work, and Pomodoro Timer makes sure you get the best of both worlds! Though it has a premium feature that limits the number of times you can use the timer, the concept is simple and can be replicated with your phone’s built-in timer. You also try checking if your university email supports the app and avail for the premium account!

You can download Pomodoro Timer here.

2. Weava Highlighter

Weave Highlighter enhances your research experience on the web. You can use different colors to highlight directly on websites and PDF files, organize them into subfiles and get back to them later. You no longer have to worry about keeping track of your sources or making citations you’ll end up discarding later on, Weave Highlighter does both for you. You can easily remove your saved highlights when you no longer need them. Researching is now painless and convenient. Two adjectives you never thought could be in the same sentence as research. 

3. Cite This For Me – Web Citer

You can’t avoid citations forever! With the help of Cite This For Me, you can complete your reference list within seconds. Simply choose your preferred citation style, the information needed, and then voila! Research does not need to be harder than it already is. Cite This For Me can remove the tedious part of the research process, and you can focus more time on the actual content of your paper.

4. Taskcade/Bullet Journal

Think of this Google Extension like a simplified Notion. Like Notion, it has customizable templates or you can opt to make your own. You can also share your workspace with others, use a chatbox where you can mention them, or even start a call! Collaboration is now made easier even though we’re far from each other. Bullet Journal is also available on the Appstore and on Google Play.

5. Picture-In-Picture

With Picture-In-Picture Extension, you can now watch videos while taking notes! It’s a convenient extension that can help minimize the hassle of toggling between screens. No need to split-screen, switch between tabs or use a separate device. Picture-In-Picture allows you to watch videos in a floating window so that you can interact with other applications at the same time. Just be sure not to abuse it and use it to watch Netflix during discussions!

Online learning has been a significant adjustment for most of us. Our friends and teachers have been reduced to rectangles displayed on an even bigger rectangle that we stare at 24/7. Pacing ourselves is necessary in order for us to accomplish everything we need to do without taxing our health. Explore our website for more tips on how to avoid burnout, or how to stay productive even when classes are over. But most importantly, remember to be kind to yourself. You are your strongest asset.