Students, writers, and other professionals are always on the lookout for tools to help organize, manage, and edit content. Today there is a vast arsenal of Open Source and free tools available that allow students and other professionals to achieve more in a limited amount of time. Below is a list of some of the must-have tools to make a student life easier.
1. OttoBib
OttoBib can generate full bibliographies automatically based on The International Standard Book Number (ISBN). The output can be retrieved in MLA, APA, Chicago/Turabian, and BibTeX format. Each bibliography can also establish a permalink which can be used at any time without having to reenter the ISBN again. The site integrates data from different sources like the U.S Library of Congress, API, Amazon.com books database, and ISBNdb.com.
2. yWriter
A must have tool that makes any writing job simpler is yWriter. Other than just putting a collection of words together, the software provides creative writing accessories like keeping an eye on the central theme and the development of an idea. It is designed for research papers and composition creation. Every assignment can be divided into chapters which can then be subdivided further to scenes. Notations can be added to chapters or scenes as needed.
3. Spreeder
Reading is a major element of any student life and Spreeder can help by allowing the user to read faster. Just add the Spreeder bookmarklet to the browser bookmarks toolbar, and when speed reading needs to be done, select the desired text, and click on the Spreeder bookmarklet. A window will open with the software preloaded with the chosen text. It is possible to control the font size, the window size and the speed of reading. The reader can start slowly and build up speed with practice.
4. FreeMind
Whether it is putting together a project or a research paper, the FreeMind mapping software allows one to visualize ideas, brainstorm, and organize internet research. It is possible to create nodes, add icons, clouds, notes and have custom formatting for improved presentations. It is possible to create encrypted nodes and maps which may be exported to HTML, Open Office documents, and other formats.
5. FlashQard
FlashQard helps the user to learn any material with the aid of flashcards. The freeware uses the commonly used method called Leitner System and employs the idea of different card types for different purposes. It helps to make leaning a new language or any test material easier by focusing on the most difficult concepts, instead of wasting time on previously known information.
6. Scribus
Scribus allows users to design layouts for programs, brochures, or other presentations needed. The software lends itself well for reports and dissertations. It is similar in function to Adobe InDesign, but without the price.
7. Argumentative
Creating a good argument is imperative for students of logic, debate, social studies, or any other subject requiring essay writing skills. Argumentative is an app which helps to create argument maps. The maps will represent any idea in a graph form. Then reasons, issues, or objections and commentary can be added to support the thesis. The first step in the program is to establish the main point that is to be argued, then three options are provided to discuss this point. This is done by adding reasoning, objections, and helpers. Each element is color coded within a graphical view giving a clearer picture of the overall project. An added benefit is the ability to export the project to Microsoft Word documents, Power Point files, or other formats using XSLT style.
8. BookFinder
For students looking to save money on books, BookFinder allows price comparison of over 1.5 million books on sale. The site/tool compares books from over four thousand sellers, so instead of visiting many different sites just click on one and everything is there.
9. Zoho Show
Going through college without making some sort of PowerPoint presentation is just not possible anymore. Zoho Show allows the editing, importing and creation of presentations online.
10. Tada List
Tada List is for all college students who can never remember their homework assignments and their due dates. Tada List helps to keep track of all things that need to be done, and can be accessed from any internet connected computer. It allows the creation of as many lists as necessary like projects, homework, reading assignments and keeps track of them via RSS.
11. Jarnal
Taking notes is a must for all students, and Jarnal is the open-source app that allows this and much more with the use of a stylus, mouse, or the keyboard. Sketching, making a presentation, or annotating a document (pdf included) is very easy. It is a better program than Microsoft Windows Journal or One-Note since it can be viewed on any platform, and is written in Java files for easy editing.
David helps run MoneyChoices.com.au, one of the leading websites in Australia to compare high interest saving accounts. He also posts on their blog about money management.
