Top Free Tools to Help You Study Smarter
Introduction: You Don’t Need to Spend Money to Study Well You don’t need expensive software or fancy equipment to succeed
Top Free Tools to Help You Study Smarter
Introduction: You Don’t Need to Spend Money to Study Well
You don’t need expensive software or fancy equipment to succeed in your course. In fact, many of the best tools for adult learners are free, simple to use, and already available on your phone or computer.
This article introduces some of the top free tools that can help you organise your time, understand your content, and complete assessments – with extra inclusions for students who benefit from screen readers or speech-to-text options.
These tools don’t replace effort – but they can make your learning process smoother, faster and more accessible.
Time Management and Planning Tools
- Google Calendar
Helps you schedule study blocks, assessment deadlines, and reminders.
Use it on your phone or computer – free with any Gmail account.
Use it on your phone or computer – free with any Gmail account.
- Pomofocus (or other Pomodoro timers)
Based on the “Pomodoro” study technique: work for 25 mins, break for 5.
Free online or via apps – helps with focus and pacing during study.
Free online or via apps – helps with focus and pacing during study.
- Microsoft To Do or Google Tasks
Simple checklist apps to track tasks and progress.
Helps break large tasks into manageable steps.
Helps break large tasks into manageable steps.
Writing, Editing and Note-Taking Tools
Free cloud-based word processor.
Allows you to write, edit, and share documents from any device.
Works well with voice typing (see below).
Allows you to write, edit, and share documents from any device.
Works well with voice typing (see below).
Checks spelling, grammar, and basic clarity.
Can help you review short assessment tasks before submitting.
Can help you review short assessment tasks before submitting.
A flexible digital notebook for organising study notes and ideas.
Part of the free Microsoft Office online suite.
Part of the free Microsoft Office online suite.
Screen Reading and Speech Tools
These tools support students who prefer to hear information, or who have vision, reading or writing challenges.
- Read Aloud in Microsoft Edge or Immersive Reader in Word/OneNote
Reads text aloud from web pages or documents.
Great for revising or accessing content in a different format.
- Google Chrome Extensions (e.g. Read Aloud, Natural Reader)
Add-on tools that speak text from your screen.
Customisable speed and voice options.
- Voice Typing in Google Docs
Activate under Tools > Voice Typing.
Speak your ideas and the tool will type them for you – helpful if typing is slow or fatiguing.
- Dictation in Microsoft Word (online version)
Similar voice-to-text tool that allows you to speak instead of type.
Revision and Practice Tools
- Quizlet (Free Version)
Create or browse digital flashcards to test your knowledge.
Great for learning terms, definitions, or short answers.
- YouTube (when used well)
Find simple video explainers on common training topics.
Tip: Search “[topic] explained simply” or “[topic] for beginners”.
- ABC Education and Skills for Education & Employment (SEE) Resources
Many public platforms offer free literacy, numeracy and study help.
A good supplement if you’re building foundational skills.
Tools Are Helpful - But Only If You Use Them
It’s easy to download an app and never open it again. The key is to:
- Pick 1 or 2 tools and use them consistently
- Integrate them into your study routine
- Review what works for you - then adjust
These tools are here to support your learning – but they won’t learn for you. The effort still has to come from you.
Simple, Free, and Ready to Use
You don’t need to do everything on paper or remember every deadline in your head. With the right free tools – and a commitment to use them – you can make your study experience more organised, accessible, and productive.
At Asset College, we encourage students to explore what works for them. And if you’re not sure how to get started with any of the tools above, just ask – we’re here to help.
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