Page 127 - A Mind For Numbers: How to Excel at Math and Science

Technology Tips: The Best Apps and Programs for Studying

A simple timer plus pen and paper are often the most straightforward tools to

avoid procrastination, but you can also make use of technology. Here’s a
rundown of some of the best student-oriented tools.

NOW YOU TRY!

Best Apps and Programs to Keep on Task (free versions available unless otherwise
noted)

Timers

The Pomodoro technique (varied prices and resources):
http://pomodorotechnique.com/

Tasks, Planning, and Flash Cards

30/30—combines timers with a task list: http://3030.binaryhammer.com/
StudyBlue—combines flash cards and notes with text messages when it’s time to
study again, along with a direct link to the material: http://www.studyblue.com/
Evernote—one of my personal favorites; very popular for noting task lists and
random pieces of information (replaces the little notebook writers have long carried to
keep track of their ideas): http://evernote.com/
Anki—one of the best pure flash card systems, with an excellent spaced repetition
algorithm; many excellent premade decks are available for a variety of disciplines:
http://ankisrs.net/
Quizlet.com—allows you to input your own flash cards; you can work with classmates
to divide up the duties (free): http://quizlet.com/
Google Tasks and Calendar: http://mail.google.com/mail/help/tasks/

Limiting Your Time on Time-Wasting Websites

Freedom—many people swear by this program, available for MacOS, Windows, and
Android ($10): http://macfreedom.com/
StayFocusd—for Google Chrome:
https://chrome.google.com/webstore/detail/stayfocusd/laankejkbhbdhmipfmgcngdelahlfoji?
hl=en
LeechBlock—for Firefox: https://addons.mozilla.org/en-us/firefox/addon/leechblock/
MeeTimer—for Firefox; tracks and logs where you spend your time:
https://addons.mozilla.org/en-us/firefox/addon/meetimer/