A new school year is upon us, bringing an equal mix of excitement and trepidation to many. Whether you’re just about to head off to college for the first time, or your child is just starting school, there’s a wealth of great apps out there to help you.
We’ve rounded up 10 of the best apps for easing your transition back to school.
1. The Homework App (Free)
Organization is key to surviving school and gaining good grades. The Homework App makes it simple to keep track of what homework is due and when. Alongside that, you’ll be able to view the entire class schedule through your timetable, color code subjects for easy glancing, and even record your instructor’s details for future reference. At all times, you can easily see just what needs to be accomplished on a daily, monthly, or yearly basis.
EasyBib (Free)
One of the more tricky parts of paper writing is getting the bibliography and citations right. It’s easy to lose track of your sources, costing you some valuable marks. EasyBib is an app that takes out all the effort. Simply scan a book barcode with your iPhone’s camera, and export the content to your document. Options are available for over 7,000 citation styles, including Harvard, MLA, APA and Chicago.
3. Duolingo (Free)
Learning a language can be fun, assuming you use the right tools. Duolingo adds fun to learning by offering pleasant and quick ways to study Spanish, French, German, Italian and many other languages. Offering short lessons at regular intervals, it’ll teach you the basics you need to know, whether you’re a student or just a keen hobbyist.
4. Photomath (Free)
To solve a mathematical problem with Photomath, all you have to do is point your camera towards the sum and it’ll figure out the rest. It’ll even offer a detailed step-by-step solution. No one should rely on this, you should be figuring things out for yourself, but it is a great way to double check your answer.
5. iTunes U (Free)
Offering a series of free classes and lessons, frequently tied into leading schools and universities, iTunes U is a great course framework for pretty much all interests. More than 1 million free lectures, videos, books and other resources are available, with assignments and group discussions tied into them. It’s ideal for students who never want to stop learning.
6. My Study Life (Free)
My Study Life is a planner for all parts of student life. It’ll keep track of when your homework is due, what classes conflict with your exams and it’ll provide revision tasks at regular points. With support for rotation based timetables, My Study Life is a huge help to those trying to organize their forthcoming academic year.
7. WolframAlpha ($2.99)
WolframAlpha offers a near terrifying amount of information. It’ll solve various mathematical equations, provide information on chemistry and electronics, while also tackling earth sciences, units and measurements and even culture and media. Think of it as the Swiss Army Knife of knowledge. It’s an invaluable resource when studying.
8. Flashcards+ (Free)
Successful revision frequently comes down to finding a method that works best for you. Using flashcards to memorize and revise knowledge is a great way of doing it. Flashcards+ is the best flashcards app out there. You can use it to make decks for various different subjects, adding images where relevant, and even sharing them with friends to help them out.
9. LaLa Lunchbox (Free)
No idea what to pack for lunch for your kids? LaLa Lunchbox aims to make that easier. Simply plan out lunches, then let your kids set up virtual lunch boxes with their chosen options for the week. You’ll know exactly what to make, they’ll actually eat it. Options for various dietary needs makes things even simpler.
10. Yik Yak (Free)
Moving to a new area for school can be intimidating. Yik Yak might make it easier, though. The location-based social network ensures you can connect with other users that are nearby, providing you with a live feed of what they’re up to, as well as the option to privately chat with them. It could be a great icebreaker.