Our Academic Success Toolkit has a variety of resources that offer techniques and strategies for improving academic learning.


Time Management

Calendarpedia

Calendarpedia offers customizable calendar templates that can be used for time management.

Overcoming Procrastination

Become familiar with helpful information about identifying and overcoming procrastination.

Pomodoro

Pomodoro is a time management technique that uses a timer to break down work into intervals traditionally 25 minutes in length, separated by short breaks. Available as a desktop or Phone application.


Organization

My Study Life

My Study Life is a cross-platform planner that allows users to store classes, homework and exams in the cloud, and making it available on any device. Free to download.

ToDoist

ToDoist is a productivity app that helps users organize personal, school and work responsibilities. Free to download with premium features available for purchase.

MyHomework

The MyHomework app is a digital student planner that allows users to track classes, homework, tests, and projects. Free to download with premium features available for purchase.

Syllabus Worksheet

This worksheet was created by the AADR staff to assist students keep track of important class information, major assignments, and essential information about each class.

Syllabus Worksheet (PDF)


Focus/Motivation

StayFocusd

StayFocusd is an extension available on the Google Chrome web browser. Users enter the maximum amount of time they would like to spend on specific websites before being blocked.

Pause

Pause is a simple extension that challenges you to momentarily pause and reflect before visiting a distracting website. In doing so, Pause breaks the cycle of distraction and helps you be more focused, productive, and intentional with your technology use.

Freedom

Freedom (available for Mac or Windows) is an all-in-one distraction blocker, whether your distractions are websites, desktop apps, or the entire internet. With Freedom Premium you can add unlimited devices and custom blocklists.


Note Taking

Cornell Note Taking System

Learn about the Cornell Note Taking System and explore different note taking strategies for improving academic learning.

Evernote

Evernote is a note-taking application that is available on Android, iOS, macOS, the web, and Windows.

Microsoft OneNote

Microsoft OneNote is a note-taking application that is available on Android, iOS, macOS, the web, and Windows.

Noteability

Noteability allows users to draw, write, and annotate documents and photos in a single note to bring projects to life. It is compatible with iOS and ideal for tablet users. Cost is $9.99/individual.


Studying

Learning Skills 

Access a variety of resources about learning skills that offer techniques and strategies for improving academic learning.

Quizlet

Quizlet is an online learning tool that trains students via flashcards and various games and tests.

MindMeister

MindMeister is an online mind mapping tool that lets users capture, develop, and share ideas visually. It is completely web-based, which means there is no download and no updating required.

StudyBlue

StudyBlue is an online studying platform that allows users to upload class study materials, create electronic flashcards to study and share with others, and practice quizzes. Free to download with premium features available for purchase.

Reading Comprehension Guide

Reading and fully understanding the complex texts you are assigned in college is a skill you can learn. This guide provides actionable strategies for improving your reading comprehension in college.


Test Taking 

Test Taking Strategies 

Read some suggestions for preparing and taking tests.

Preparing and Taking Tests

Coping with Test Anxiety

Anxious about tests? Read some suggestions for overcoming test anxiety. 

Overcoming Test Anxiety

Reducing Test Anxiety and Anxiety While Studying

Explore study tips to reduce anxiety while studying as well as strategies for how to reduce test anxiety before and during an exam. 

Reducing Test and Studying Anxiety


Writing

Grammarly

Grammarly is a software program that helps deter writing mistakes, contextual errors, spelling errors, and poor vocabulary usage. Free to download with premium features available for purchase.

Hemingway Editor

Hemingway Editor assists with writing clarity, passive voice editing, and readability. It’s compatible with both Windows and Mac and free for web browser users.

FocusWriter

FocusWriter is a simple, distraction-free writing environment with features such as timers, alarms, daily goals, and customizable themes. Free to download.


Mindfulness

Guided Mind

Guided Mind is an iPhone and iPad application with guided meditations that address specific challenges and helps users relax and deal with the stresses of day-to-day life. Free to download.

Calm

Calm is a website and app with relaxing nature videos and guided meditations for stress management. Free to download with premium features available for purchase.

Breathe

Breathe is an app that guides users through a series of deep breaths and reminds them to take time to breathe every day. Free to download.