Finding the best study and cooking buddies on your phone!

Balancing studies, managing time, staying organised, and even figuring out how to eat well on a budget are all struggles we face as students. Luckily, there are plenty of apps designed to make our lives easier and more productive. Whether you're looking to improve your study habits, streamline your tasks, keep your work from vanishing, or even whip up quick and budget-friendly meal, We’ve got you covered! Here are some of my top apps I’ve used to make life just that little bit easier.

1. Duolingo

This is an excellent app for university students, particularly international students looking to improve their English skills. Its interactive lessons make language learning engaging, helping users build confidence in everyday communication. For UK-based students, Duolingo offers an opportunity to enhance their foreign language studies or even learn a few phrases in the languages spoken by their international peers!

2. Quizlet

When it comes to exam prep, Quizlet is great. Although I’m personally an art student and don’t need to revise with flashcards, this app saved my bacon when I was studying English language, literature and media! This versatile app allows students to create digital flashcards and test their knowledge through interactive quizzes based on their own personal notes. Whether you're tackling terminology-heavy courses or need help memorizing complex concepts, Quizlet is a valuable tool.

3. Google Drive

Losing coursework due to technical issues can be a nightmare, and is something I have dealt with in the past.. but Google Drive ensures your files stay safe and accessible. By automatically saving your documents in the cloud, this app prevents data loss and allows you to access your work from any device, including the university computers, making it an essential tool for students working on essays, group projects, or presentations.

4. Trello

For students juggling multiple assignments and deadlines, Trello is a lifesaver. Acting as digital sticky notes, this app helps you organise tasks for yourself or a group. You can create boards, set tasks, and track their progress by updating their status, ensuring that nothing slips through the cracks. It’s especially helpful for managing group projects or staying on top of personal study schedules. I have used this many times to help keep my animation pipeline in check!

5. BigOven

If keeping yourself fed feels more challenging than tackling your coursework and exams, BigOven can help. This app offers recipe ideas tailored to your leftover ingredients, helping you save money and reduce food waste. It’s a perfect companion for students cooking on a tight budget, ensuring you stay nourished and energized for your studies.

Already using these apps or ready to give them a try? University life doesn’t have to be stressful, so let these tools do the heavy lifting!