Brandeis International Business School

1 minute toolkit

5 free online tools to try this semester

5 online tools to try this semester

There’s an app for everything, including resources that help students increase productivity – and many of them don’t cost a dime. From taking notes to studying for exams, your phone, tablet or laptop can become an important learning tool with these apps and online resources:

1. Office Lens

There are plenty of lecture-capture apps that allow you to record and listen back to class sessions, but Office Lens tackles visual lessons by allowing Microsoft users to photograph whiteboards and other presentation tools. The app converts the photograph to a PDF or Word file for studying and revision later on. 

2. EasyBib

We know how long writing a good bibliography can take – but with the EasyBib app, students can simply take a picture of the barcode or type in the title of the book and generate an academic reference. Prefer to use your laptop? EasyBib can also automatically build MLA, APA and Chicago citations using the source’s URL or a quick search. 

3. StudyBlue

With StudyBlue, students can transform notes and study materials into digital flashcards and practice quizzes, track progress and set reminders to study. Available as a web, iPhone/iPad and Android app, StudyBlue’s helpful learning tools can be used on the go. 

4. TCY Exam Prep

Planning on taking the GMAT or GRE? TCY Exam Prep for Android offers practice tests, real-time competitions, exam notifications and more for a range of qualifying exams. 

5. Class Timetable

Settling into a new semester can become much more manageable using Class Timetable, which keeps track of classes, room locations and homework assignments. Available for iPhone, iPad and Apple Watch, the app clearly shows what’s coming up on your schedule so you can ensure that you’re prepared, and it even offers class notifications and task reminders.

These apps are well-designed for students who need to streamline their workload – but they’re especially invaluable in graduate school. Thinking about taking the next step in your academic career? Our Accelerated MA program is a great path for undergraduates studying economics to launch their career with two degrees in just one additional year.