Collegiettes, your dreaded first exam is just around the corner and you want to be extra prepared so you are sure to impress your professors associated with your major with your sky high test scores. Or maybe your first exam has come and gone and you didn’t do as hot as you imagined you would. The motto I always live by during exam week “It’s better to over study than understudy,” which is extremely true. Knowing the additional material that isn’t on the test is better than looking at your test booklet with a blank stare plastered across your face on test day.
Technology is an awesome resource that many of us struggle to use while studying. All we were taught in high school was how to create our own test questions and make flash cards from the notes provided in class, not how to use an iPad or phone while studying. Before I discovered all of the convenient study applications I would struggle through the mundane process of writing down each question from the test review on notecards (which I had to buy, ew) and rewrite notes. However, if you begin to use at least one of the Top 5 study applications, that are accessible through your smartphone, iPad, or computer, you’ll see your grades sore. Who knows: with how smart and technology savvy you’ll become, you could be the next Steve Jobs.
QuizletÂ
Quizlet is an online database of classes that have completed study guides from either previous classes throughout the years or by current classmates. It provides you with flash cards, key terms to remember, and a place for you to create your own class study guide!
Price: Free, can be used on smart phones, tablets and through Internet site.
Study Blue
This application is similar to Quizlet, but I like it better. This application has you making your own flash cards without the use of paper. While studying you can give yourself mock tests as Study Blue provides percentages as if it were a real test. This App is great for tracking your progress!
Price: Free downloadable on any smartphone device, tablet or can be used on Internet site.
BrainscapeÂ
Does anyone else hate those teachers who provide 30 minutes for a multiple choice test with 50 questions? This app is perfect for studying for those test.
Brainscape requires you answer all of your cards as quickly as possible and then asks you to rate how you think you conquered those flashcards. Depending on your answer the computer decides whether you are tested again or if you can continue to the next set of questions. It’s so addicting and makes studying fun!
Price: Free, on any smartphone or tablet device.
NoteabilityÂ
Notability is more useful for class room use, but I find it very useful while studying.
Noteablity allows you to record audio (such as lectures), add pictures, text boxes and highlighting to whatever type of note taking format you prefer. You are able to print your notes directly from your device as well. It’s easier and more convenient than lugging around that computer all day!
Price: 2.99 on any Apple device (totally worth it!)
MyScript MathPad
When studying for math related exams this application is extremely useful. It enables you to write your math equation on the screen with your finger and changes it to mathematical expressions.
It also provides an easy way to view your work, and enables file sharing on social media sites, that way you are able to share your work with your Facebook study group! So easy!
Price: Free, downloadable on Apple devices.