Sometimes people say that students have it easy, but they forget just how much students have to juggle. Whether you’re in high school or college, you have a full load of classes, plus potentially other jobs or life responsibilities. What are the best productivity apps to help?
It makes it difficult to keep track of everything you have going on in your classes. One missed test or deadline and you may feel like you’re behind for the rest of the semester.
Instead of taking chances with your work, try some of the best productivity apps for students. Even if it takes a few minutes to learn how to use them, they could end up transforming your educational experience.
To-Do List Apps
The first thing that comes in handy for school work is a to-do list. Once you leave the classroom and head back to the library or where you live, you might forget the specific details of your homework assignments. These apps will help make sure that never happens again.
1. Remember the Milk
People love using Remember the Milk because it’s so easy to personalize with how you want to structure your to-do list. It syncs across all your devices and sends reminders through email, text and even Twitter so you never forget anything. It’s easy to learn how to use and takes only minutes to set up.
2. TickTick
When you use TickTick for your to-do lists, you get bonus features that make the app great. Set timers and reminders for every to-do list item to beat procrastination. Save them on the app’s internal calendar, sync on all your devices and share reminders or events with friends who may work on projects with you.
3. ToDoist
Anyone who wants to streamline their productivity should download ToDoist. It’s most popular with people who collaborate with team members on projects and assignments. To unlock the upgraded version with the calendar and project templates, students only have to pay $36 each year.
4. Microsoft To Do
Microsft To Do is a simple yet powerful task management app for students who prefer a clean, distraction-free interface. Its seamless integration with Outlook and other Microsoft tools makes it an excellent choice for those already using its ecosystem. Students can create lists, set deadlines and receive smart suggestions to help them stay on top of assignments and deadlines.
5. Any.do
Any.do is a productivity app that helps students stay on top of their tasks with intuitive to-do lists, smart reminders and seamless calendar syncing. Its clean interface makes organizing assignments and daily tasks effortless. The app’s voice-entry feature also allows students to add tasks hands-free, making it convenient for those on the go.
Note-Taking Apps
Taking notes may feel like an endless task that’s hard to review when you need it. Instead of flipping through pages in binders, try one of these note-taking apps for easy accessibility.
1. OneNote
No matter what devices you use, you can download OneNote and access free, unlimited notebooks with endless pages. Customize each notebook’s color, label and how the pages are set up. It’s perfect for typing or handwriting notes and saving files in one place.
2. Google Docs
Available on both Androids and iPhones, Google Docs is great for collaboration and seamless note-taking. Share files with team members and who’s doing what in the document as everyone works. Open and create notes on your phone, tablet or laptop with this easy to use app.
3. Evernote
Evernote is for students who want everything that OneNote and Google Docs offer, but with a few added features. Within Evernote, users can make different to-do lists, scan texts into photos and enjoy making voice memos.
4. Notion
Notion is a versatile all-in-one workspace that helps students streamline their note-taking, research and project management. Its combination of notes and task management tools allows students to organize their studies in a way that suits their workflow. Customizable templates also simplify creating study plans, tracking assignments and storing research materials all in one place.
5. Zoho Notebook
Zoho Notebook is a beautifully designed note-taking app with a unique card-based layout, perfect for students who prefer a visually organized workspace. Each note is stored as a separate card, allowing users to categorize ideas, assignments and study materials effortlessly. With features like voice notes and cloud syncing, students can capture and access information in multiple formats from any device.
Adulting Made Easy Apps
Besides taking notes and checking things off your to-do list, students have to learn how to adult on the fly. These apps will make that easier, so adulting doesn’t seem so hard to do.
1. Forest
Forest is a unique productivity app that helps students focus by turning study sessions into a game. When users start a focus session, a virtual tree grows, but it withers if they leave the app to check their phone. This simple yet effective concept encourages students to stay off their devices and concentrate on their work. The app also partners with tree-planting organizations, allowing students to turn their focus time into real-world environmental impact.
2. Stretch!
Maintaining a healthy morning routine is what will set every day up for success. Instead of rolling out of bed ten minutes before your first morning class, wake up a bit earlier to stretch. Stretch! gently wakes up your body and improves overall blood circulation so you can think clearly and handle whatever it is you have to do.
3. Week Plan
The Week Plan app is a multi-platform app that breaks down upcoming tasks for the week through boards, journals and lists. Set timers for when you want to take study breaks and sync everything with your Google or Outlook calendar so you can easily form your days around appointments or meetings.
4. Headspace
Headspace is a mindfulness and meditation app designed to help students manage stress, improve focus and develop healthier sleep habits. With guided meditation sessions tailored for beginners and experienced users, it provides an easy way to incorporate mindfulness into a busy student schedule. The app offers stress-relief exercises and sleep soundtracks to promote better rest.
5. AnyList
AnyList is a practical and user-friendly app that helps students with grocery shopping, meal planning and recipe organization. With customizable shopping lists that sync across devices, it simplifies tracking essentials and avoids last-minute store runs. The built-in meal planner helps students organize their weekly meals, ensuring healthier eating habits while maintaining a budget.
Test Them Out
The only way to know which of these productivity apps will help you the most is to test them out. Try out the different features and see which ones fit seamlessly into your schedule. After a little time, you’ll see how much more productive you’ll be because of the features on these apps.
Original Publish Date 10/16/2019 — Updated 02/27/2025
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