LIFE

We get it—scrolling through Facebook and Pinterest, watching another episode of your fave show and reading GL are all *so* much more fun than your growing pile of assignments. But imagine how much better you will feel once you tackle everything on your to-do list. To make your next study sesh simplier and more interactive, check out these free apps that will improve your productivity, skills and mood.

Simple Blocker
Available on: Google Chrome Web Store
Instead of tweeting again about how much homework sucks, check out every procrastinator’s new BFF – Simple Blocker. You can add websites like Twitter and YouTube to your blocklist and set a timer. Then, if you try to visit any of those sites the extension will remind you that it is time to get back to work. Once you are done, you can enjoy your socials guilt free. Plus, you can be honest when your mom or big sis asks if your homework is done. ;)

TED
Available on: Apple App Store and Google Play Store
Of course hard work leads to a well-earned break, but why not make the most of it with some educational and inspirational videos? TED Talks are given by people all around the world who share stories, ideas or experiences that connect to a motivational message. Every video will leave you feeling all the feels. We mean “Wow,” “Pass the tissue box,” “How could this be happening?!” and even “Where can I sign up?” With the wide-range of subjects covered, you are also likely to find inspo for a future class presentation or discussion. Fun fact: Kermit the Frog has given a TED Talk!

Photomath
Available on: Apple App Store and Google Play Store
Have you ever stared at your list of math problems and had absolutely no idea where to start? Us too. That is why we are *so* grateful for Photomath. This app turns your phone’s camera into a calculator – simply point your camera at the problem and get the solution, plus step-by-step instructions on how to get there. You will never wonder ‘y’ you cannot solve for ‘x’ again.

Google Docs
Available on: Apple App Store, Google Play Store and online
While you probably already know and use Google Docs, you may be missing out on some awesome benefits! For one, it is a great tool for group work since you can share documents with your classmates and work on them at the same time. In class, you can go one step further and share lecture notes with your pals. Have no clue what your teacher is talking about, or completely blanked out on that last slide? Add a comment and you can help fill each other in after class. You know what they say: teamwork makes the dream work (and the grade go up, too!).

Tandem
Available on: Apple App Store and Google Play Store
If you are taking any language classes, Tandem is the app for you. The language exchange service matches you up with a foreign pen pal based on your language goals and interests. This way, you can learn a language and practice your conversation skills at the same time. Did we mention the app works to correct your language mistakes in real time? Your Spanish teacher will be saying “Wow!” in no time – or should we say “Guau!”

Which apps will you be adding to your school routine? Let us know in the comments!

by Angela McLean | 10/27/2017