10 best study apps for distance learning students

In the not so distant future, the world is finally returning to some form of normality. Whether it’s long overdue catch ups with loved ones, going to your favourite festival or exploring new places, there’s plenty of lost time to make up for.

Before you know it, your calendar will be jam-packed with social engagements, leaving no time for studying. To keep your learning on track it’s important to manage your time effectively. With a little help from some awesome apps, you’ll be able to balance work, social and study commitments.

There are hundreds of apps designed to help you boost productivity, improve concentration and prioritise tasks. Here are 10 of the best apps available today:

1. Todoist

Todoist is perfect for distance learning students. The versatile system is packed with useful features that enable you to create task lists, manage your time and prioritise your workload, all within a single app.

From iOS to Android and Mac to Windows, Todoist is available on all major platforms. The app has cross-platform functionality so that you can easily switch between devices.

The free version of Todoist is ideal for beginners. But if you’re looking for a more feature-rich experience, you’ll need to subscribe for £3 per month.

2. Evernote

Evernote is a note-taking app that is available across mobile, desktop and tablet. Now, we’re not saying you should completely eliminate the timeless pen and paper method. But even traditionalists would have a hard time denying the benefits of Evernote.

For example, Evernote lets you capture information in your preferred format. Whether that’s long-form text, images or PDFs, you can tailor your notes to suit your learning style. There’s also a rapid search function that allows you to instantly access essential files.

Like Todoist, Evernote offers a basic plan for free. To unlock all features you’ll have to become a paid subscriber – which costs £4.99 per month.

3. Pocket

Pocket is a read-it-later service that allows you to discover and save content. Think of Pocket like a personal library that stores videos, images, articles and more. When you’re ready to engage with this content, return to the app and browse your repository.

Pocket is available as a chrome extension or mobile app. In both versions, you can bookmark items with a single click of a button. Your saved content is automatically synced so that you can access your library on any device, at any time.

It’s free to get started with Pocket. There’s also a premium ad-free version priced at £3.95 per month.

4. Headspace

Headspace is a mindfulness app that takes the stigma out of mental health. Download the app on an iOS or Android device to access guided meditations, sleep techniques and general well-being tips.

We’re all well aware of the pressure that comes with studying. Even when deadlines edge closer and closer or exams are on the horizon, it’s important to take the time to look after yourself. Regular rest and relaxation will certainly help to relieve some of this stress.

Headspace is priced at £4.17 per month, there’s also a student membership available for £9.99 per year.

5. Quizlet

Quizlet is a dream come true for visual learners. The web-based app helps to make studying an interactive experience. From flashcards to quizzes, you can create custom resources to test your knowledge in a fun way.

If starting from scratch doesn’t appeal to you, there are hundreds of quiz, test and flashcard templates available on Quizlet. Choose the most appropriate format and add your content to get started.

With the free membership, you’ll be able to access basic features. For unlimited access, you’ll need to subscribe to Quizlet Plus, which costs £47.88 per year.

6. XMind

XMind is an intuitive mind mapping tool that helps to bring conventional notes to life. Thanks to its easy-to-use interface, you can quickly put together visual revision prompts, free-flowing brainstorms and organised mind maps.

XMind was originally created for web developers. So there’s some functionality, like hierarchical structures and relationship charts, that may be of no use to you. To get started, we recommend taking a look at the existing templates.

The app is available on desktop and mobile devices and costs £59.99 per year.

7. Brain.fm

Brain.fm is a music library that is designed to improve the length and quality of your concentration. With Brain.fm you’ll no longer need to waste time trying to find the perfect soundtrack on Spotify or YouTube.

Instead, you’ll get access to curated playlists that enhance concentration. Brain.fm’s functional music has the perfect mix of upbeat, ambient and relaxing tones.

It costs £6.99 per month to subscribe to Brain.fm. The innovative app is available on iOS and Android devices.

8. Google Drive

Google Drive is a cloud storage service that makes it’s easy to store, share and back-up your files. Saving all your important documents, like course materials and revision notes, in a single location will help to improve your organisation.

Signing up to Google Drive also gives you access to wider G Suite apps. Tools like Google docs, sheets and slides are free to use and are well-suited to handle your data processing needs.

Google Drive offers 15GB storage for free. You upgrade to 100GB for just £1.59 per month.

9. Exam Countdown Lite

As the name suggests, Exam Countdown Lite allows you to track and monitor your upcoming exam schedule. The countdown updates automatically and provides a breakdown of the months, weeks, days and minutes until your next exam.

It’s quick and easy to get started on the app. Simply add the title and date of your exam and Exam Countdown Lite will do the rest. To give it a more personal touch, you add colours and icons to each exam.

The highly popular app is free to download on iOS and Android phones.

10. Clockify

Clockify is an all-in-one time management tool. The app is designed to boost productivity and has a wide range of useful features including time tracking, calendars and reminders.

Distance learners can take advantage of studying how, when and wherever they like. But even the most meticulously planned study schedule is at risk of derailment from procrastination. Clockify draws on popular time management models such as time-blocking and Pomodoro to help you stay focused on studying.

Clockify is available on desktop and mobile devices. It’s free to get started or you can upgrade to a premium edition for £5.49 per month.

Bonus Study Tips

And that’s a wrap! We hope these apps empower you to achieve the best results on your distance learning course. Are there any apps that we should add to our list? Share your recommendations with us on Twitter.

In the meantime, for more top study tips check out these handy blog posts. Ready to take the next step in your career? Try our accredited AAT, ACCA or CIMA course free for 7 days.