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 Last Updated on October 30, 2018

18 Best Time Management Apps and Tools (2018 Updated)


Kirstin O´Donovan
Certi ed Life and Productivity Coach, Founder and CEO of TopResultsCoaching Read full pro le

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No one can dispute the countless bene ts technology has brought us. It’s undoubtedly allowed us to connect, perform,
improve and leverage our resources beyond what was once imaginable.
If you’re not taking advantage of one of the hundreds of time management apps and tools out there, you’re de nitely
missing a trick.
But with so many apps to choose from, how do you know which ones to use? Well, this will depend on your needs, but we’ve
put together a list of 18 of the very best time management apps that can help you with the most common time management
challenges.
Let’s dive straight into the list…

1. Rescue Time — Use your time wisely


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If you have doubts that you’re using your time sensibly, this app will send you weekly reports to indicate what things are
stealing your time. You may be shocked to discover how much time you’re actually wasting.
Download Rescue Time

2. Remember The Milk — Keep on top of all your tasks

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If you’re struggling to manage everything you have to do, and you work with many different devices, then this is the app for
you. It’s a great free tool which is compatible with your mobile, computer, Gmail, Outlook, etc. It helps you to manage your
tasks easily, and reminds you of them – wherever you are.
Download Remember the Milk

3. Focus Booster – Boost motivation to complete tasks


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This app is based on the principles of the Pomodoro Technique, and is aimed at individuals who procrastinate and feel
overwhelmed by tasks. It’s designed to enhance your focus and remove any anxiety you might have with time pressures.
Download Focus Booster

4. Toggl – Keep track of time spent on projects and tasks

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This is a great alternative to time-sheets, if you need to track how much time you spend on different projects. Effective time
management starts with being clear on exactly how much time you actually spend on your projects and tasks, and then
through analysis, working out how you can manage them more effectively.
Download Toggl

5. Dropbox — Store and send large les easily

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There are many apps that allow you to transfer content from your computer to other devices – but Dropbox is free and easier
to use than the others. With the Dropbox app, you can even access and share important les on the go.
Download Dropbox

6. Evernote — Keep all your notes in one place

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Evernote is a free productivity tool that allows you to capture all your ideas, thoughts and images in many different ways
(e.g., with voice, notes or images).  You can even record your meetings, interviews, speeches and ideas, create lists, add voice
or text attachments, and share your les with friends. You can also sync Remember The Milk with Evernote to really optimize
your time.
Download Evernote

7. Mind42 — Focus on tasks at hand with mind mapping

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Mind mapping is a great productivity technique, and Mind42 is the best free mind mapping app currently available. It helps
you to become more organized by focusing your thoughts – thereby gaining clarity on what needs to be done.
Download Mind42

8. SyncBackFree — Back up and sync your les effortlessly

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This free software allows you to back up, restore and synchronize your les easily. It not only saves you time now – but also
in the future. If you have never backed up your les before, you should de nitely take a look at this pivotal tool.
Download SnycBackFree

9. MyLifeOrganized (MLO) — Manage your to-do lists effectively

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Check this out if you nd it dif cult to manage all your tasks, to work with your to-do lists, and to organize your goals. This
task management system helps you to target what you should be focusing on to reach your objectives. It automatically
generates to-do lists, with priority actions for your immediate attention so that you can track your progress methodically.
Download MyLifeOrganized (MLO)

10. 1Password — Have all your passwords remembered

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This app allows you to keep all your passwords in one encrypted database, protected by one password. This saves you time
when you forget your passwords and need to retrieve them. It also allows you to use various passwords for different
accounts so you don’t compromise on security.

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Download 1Password

11. Pocket — Keep your eye on the ball

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When you’re sur ng the web, it’s easy to get distracted by enticing and fascinating websites. Use this tool to save your
‘ nds’ to access and read later on at a convenient time which will not impact on your immediate work.
Download Pocket

12. Focus@Will — Boost your attention span

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This amazing app combines neuroscience and music to boost your productivity. According to the developers, it’s possible
to increase your attention span by up to 400%! Ideal for those who nd it dif cult to focus while studying, working or
reading.
Download Focus@Will

13. Launchy — Interact with your computer in a smart way

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This small and simple tool allows you to launch your documents, project les, folders, and bookmarks with just a few
keystrokes. This makes life so much easier as you don’t need to go through the start menu to access what you want.
Download Launchy

14. Forest — Boost your focus by growing a forest

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This unique and fun app helps you stay focused and on-track. The concept is simple: whenever you want to focus, plant a
virtual tree. If you stay focused, the tree will grow. If you lose focus, the tree will die. As the app’s name implies, you can grow
multiple trees to create a virtual forest!
Download Forest

15. Trello — Track your projects in a highly visual way


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This is a hugely popular app that you may already be familiar with. It works by allowing you to create cards for tasks that
you need to complete. Each card moves across the Trello board (which is typically broken into columns such as To Do, In
Progress, and Completed) as your start, work on and complete the associated task.
Download Trello

16. Wunderlist — Digitalize your to-do lists

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Purchased by Microsoft in 2015, Wunderlist is an easy to use, feature-packed to-do list app. From planning a holiday, to
sharing a shopping list with a partner, or managing multiple work projects, Wunderlist will keep you on top of all your tasks.
Download Wunderlist

17. TimeTree — Have a shared calendar with your family

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This app allows families or teams to share multiple calendars and appointments. So, whether you’re planning a party, or run
a local sports team, Time Tree can keep everyone up-to-date with all current and upcoming activities and events.
Download Time Tree

18. Todoist — Capture and order all your tasks and activities easily

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Todoist is close to being the ultimate digital to-do list. It’s available via browsers and apps, and lets you schedule all your
tasks and activities. Each item can be agged for priority as well as given a due date. There is also a neat option to add
notes to any of your tasks.
Download Todoist
The above list covers what we consider to be the very best time management apps and tools. And the good news is – that
many of them are completely free of charge! So, what are you waiting for? Select the ones that will be the most valuable to
you – and begin boosting your productivity now!
Oh, and one more thing… Take a look at a couple of our other articles that will help further streamline your time
management:
40 Top Productivity Apps for iPhone and 20 Quick Tips For Better Time Management

More Recommended Productivity Experts on Lifehack


Leon Ho — The Founder and CEO of Lifehack, which he share productivity hacks to make life easier
Carl Pullein — A renowned productivity and time management coach
Mark Pettit — A Business Coach for ambitious entrepreneurs who want to achieve more by working less
Featured photo credit: Unsplash via unsplash.com

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 Published on November 9, 2018

How to Improve Your Computer Skills to Get Ahead in Your Career


Tripti Rai
Tripti works in a mobile app development agency and shares about work and productivity tips related to technology. Read full pro le

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Technology has taken the business world by storm. People and businesses are progressively reliant on technology world
these days. As a result, the people with impressive knowledge and experience with a computer are in demand.
Considering this growing market trend, if you too wish to bag a pro table job, this article is apt for you. Here, we will dig
deeper into the business and technology world to look into what are the best computer skills one should invest in and what
resources to get help from.
So, are you ready? Here we begin.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

1. 6 Most-In Demand Computer Skills This Year (and Beyond)


2. The Roadmap to Excel Your Computer Skills
3. Mobile Apps and Websites to Enhance Computer Skills
4. Bonus: Tips to Accelerate Your Approach For a Better Career Ahead
5. The Bottom Line

6 Most-In Demand Computer Skills This Year (and Beyond)


When talking about computer skills, following are the 6 computer skills that can ll your mailbox with endless job
opportunities (besides, having an English and Hindi typing speed of 40+ WPM):-

1. Spreadsheets and Databases


Considering the treasure trove of data companies are handling these days, Spreadsheet and Database management skill
tops the list. It is considered the most wanted job skill in the market, with a salary of around $53,129/yr for an entry-level
position. However, the spreadsheet skill does not con ne to auditing data from cells.
To get hired based on this computer skill, you need to become a Spreadsheet ninja. From storing data to organizing them,
applying complex mathematics formulas, and creating complex macros, you need to be an expert at all.
In other words, you need to have an expertise at working with:
Microsoft Excel
Microsoft Access
Statistics
Data Analytics
Adobe Campaign
Quickbooks
XML Database management system
Filemaker Pro
MATLAB
Hive
FORTRAN
RDBMS (Relational Database Management System)
SAS

2. Social Media, Email, and Blogging


Though people are socially active, not everyone knows how to use the social media tools on the professional front. In such a
scenario, having an expertise at writing engaging yet professional emails, writing blogs, and managing social media
activities is a ticket to entry in reputed organizations.
Some of the skills related to social media, email and blogging that will have a leg up in the hiring process are:
Content Management System (CMS)
Google Analytics
Cascading Style Sheets (CSS)
Email Marketing
Web Page Design
WordPress
Digital Media
Search Engine Optimization (SEO)
Campaign Management Software
3. Graphic Design and Word Processing
A solid grasp of skills to present the gained information in the much readable form is another market need. When
considering this computer skill category, you need to enhance your skills at:
Adobe Photoshop
Adobe InDesign
Adobe Illustrator
AutoCAD
CorelDRAW
Microsoft Visual Studio
Maya
Microsoft Word
Microsoft Publisher
Operating Digital Cameras

4. Software and Hardware Design and Development


The Software and Hardware development, in simpler language, means designing, implementing, and testing the computer
software/hardware applications. It is the most pro table computer skill, with a different job opening, including Software
Architect, Software Analyst, Software programmer, Hardware con guration, etc.
To be capable of developing and testing the software and hardware, you need to peruse your users’ needs and build an
application that hits their pain points. You need to work with different web and mobile app coding languages for gaining the
attention of your audience, some of which are:
HTML
C/C++
Java
Python
XML
UI/UX
LINUX
CISC and RISC architecture
Embedded Processor Hardware Design
Memory Management
PCB Layout
SQL

5. IT Troubleshooting
Working on computers is one thing and having a knack of looking into the associated issues and resolving them in real-time
is another. There are various employees and graduates who work with computer systems in their daily lives, but get
confused when it comes to dealing with frozen programs and performing routine maintenance.
So, if you are familiar with the basic anatomy of computers and machines and know the tricks to perform such tasks to
streamline the working process, enter the IT support arena. The prime IT troubleshooting skills one needs to work upon are:
Backup management
Diagnostics
End User support
Client-Server management
Installation and con guration
Issue tracking system (ITS)
System administration
Tech support

6. Enterprise Systems
Many Enterprises have their own enterprise solutions like PeopleSoft for managing their data and operations.
Becoming a master at using the enterprise solutions mentioned in their ‘Requirements’ area can also lessen the barrier to get
a job.

The Roadmap to Excel Your Computer Skills


Now that you know the 6 most popular computer skills in the market, the rst decision, you need to take is which computer
skill you want to work upon. All the skills are equally considerable for making a career ahead. So, choose one as per your
interest.
Once done, look forward to the following resources for boosting your computer skills and getting a reputed, handsome job.
Depending on the computer skill you opt, here are the online courses you can turn to for elevating your career opportunities:

1. Become a Spreadsheet and Database Ninja


a. Microsoft Excel Training Online Course – Basic & Advanced
Whether you are a beginner, intermediate or expert at working with spreadsheets, this online course has something new for
everyone to become excel ef cient users.
Divided into 48 interesting lessons, the course empowers you to learn the technique of using mathematical, statistical,
logical and text functions, sorting and ltering the data, creating Pivot Tables, building macros, nding a value with
VLOOKUp, and much more.
b. Excel- Online Courses, Classes, Training, Tutorials on Lynda
This is another impressive course to unlock the power of Excel. Designed for people from all walks of life and familiarity with
Excel tools. This course helps you gain in-depth knowledge from the experts about this data-analyzing tool and make the
magic in spreadsheet creation and management process.
c. SQL & Database Design A-Z™: Learn MS SQL Server + PostgreSQL
Build a successful career in the data analytics world with this online course.
Revolving around the two top databases, MS SQL and PostgreSQL, this course will give you a comprehensive knowledge of
the working of the databases and understanding of all the related elements, including how to create, update, organize, and
safeguard the data.

2. Rule the Social Media World


a. Free Social Media Course by HubSpot
Introduced by the top experienced inbound professors from Hubspot, here you will get a comprehensive knowledge of Social
media marketing.
From understanding how to build relationships on different social media platforms to creating a perfect strategy to engage
them, leveraging the bene ts of social advertising, and analyzing your social media ROI, this course will bring out the best
out of you.
b. Write Professional Emails in English by Coursera
This online course will be the right weapon to look into the differences and similarities between different email styles,
improve your English writing skills, write effective subject lines, maintain the formality tone in emails, and more to make a
powerful impact on the receivers with your email.

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c. Ninja Writing: The Four Levels of Writing Mastery


Founded by Udemy, this online course will excel your skills to build a masterpiece everytime you write.
Here, you will get the guidance from the editors of the top newspapers and websites, and understand what kind of words
and tone to use for leaving a spellbinding impact on the readers.

3. Launch Your Own Software or Hardware Equipment


a. Hardware and Software Courses by Coursera
From Big Data to IoT, Sensor Circuit Design, Embedded Software and Hardware Architecture, and Motor Control Circuit, this
course will give you a glimpse of all the hardware devices, equipment, and programming languages to build wonders.
b. Free Software and Web Development Certi cations Online by Alison
Become the software developer market demands with Alison’s Java, C#, Python, R, PHP, or MySQL database course. From
backend to frontend development and software testing.
The course helps you to learn how to design, develop and test software and working in a team while contributing to the
team success.
c. Free Online Software Development and MOOCs Course by Class Central
The Class Central online course will make you a master of software development. Here, you will learn the basic concepts of
development like Agile, Design Patterns, and Version Control with Git, along with gaining experience of working with the top
programming languages.

4. Live and Breathe Creativity


a. Udemy: Introduction to Graphic Design
It is a top-rated program for the new learners and designers to explore the Graphic Design world.
From the history of communication to the design principles, the course will help the students to learn everything speci cally
and implement in the real world.
b. Canva Design School
From a beginner to advanced level, this course will provide you with an elaborated and comprehensive knowledge of graphic
design. In the form of 4 modules, this course will help the interested graphic designers to try out their skills at Graphics,
ranging from fonts to colors, backgrounds, images, shapes, and layouts.
c. Microsoft Word – Basic & Advanced
62 personalized lessons, premium video tutorials, and unlimited tests and quizzes – this certi ed course has everything that
will make your entry to the business world easier.
d. Microsoft Of ce: Word, Excel and Access Productivity Bundle
The course will make you productive in Word, Excel, and Access through video lectures, articles, and various other
supplemental resources.
Besides, it will offer you exclusive tips and tricks to enhance your skills at using Microsoft of ce.

5. Raise Your Re exes to IT Troubleshooting


a. IT Troubleshooting Skill Training by Udemy
IT Troubleshooting Skill Training will upgrade your logical concepts over technical components to nd and repair faults.
It will provide you with a methodological approach to learn the basics of troubleshooting, practice them via exercises and
drills, and enhance your IT troubleshooting intelligence.
b. IT Help Desk Online Course on Lynda
The Lynda’s IT troubleshooting online course will train you how to respond to the issues related to Windows 10, Of ce 365,
JIRA software, and more, from a local as well as a remote location.

Mobile Apps and Websites to Enhance Computer Skills


The aforementioned online courses will undoubtedly train you for a successful career ahead. But, in case you want a long-
term support, turn towards the following websites and mobile apps:
Duolingo – Duolingo app will improve your spoken and written communication skills in different languages. With the
magic of gami cation added to the study, the app will make learning a fun and addictive task.
Hemingway – Hemingway app de nes the length, complexity, and common errors associated with the sentences. In
this way, it helps you to write effectively and go ahead in the career.
Udemy – The Udemy, with its 2000+ courses, is a great platform to master new skills, advance your career and explore
the newer technologies and programming languages. Enrol a course as per your budget and make a brighter future.
eDX – eDX is yet another commendable platform you can look forward to. The platform offers you the best of the
tutorials prepared by the business professionals and technology experts, ensuring a great boost in your computer skills.
Excel Easy – Excel Easy, as the name depicts, will make working with Excel easier for you via their detailed tutorials
and 300+ real-life examples.
GCF LearnFree.org – It is a one-stop platform for accelerating your future in the computer world. From graphic design
to Microsoft Of ce, resume writing, enhancing adaptability, and much more, the top experts will guide you with
everything on this platform.
QuarkXPress – The QuarkXPress will aid you to add soul to your design with its unparalleled collection of font style,
size, and typography. The best part is that it is avails all the options in different languages, including English, Spanish,
German, French, and Italian to name a few.

Bonus: Tips to Accelerate Your Approach For a Better Career Ahead


Though these resources will make you stand out from the crowd and get hired at once, you need to focus on various other
things, such as:

1. Practice, Practice, Practice


It is common to forget what we learn. To ensure that you do not miss any opportunity just because you forgot, keep
practising.
Make it your routine. Polish your computer skills and you will surely end up getting an offer letter from a recognized rm.

2. Work on Your Ef ciency


Remembering what you learned is not enough; practice to enhance those skills to do better.
For example, if you take around 50 minutes to create a design, target for 40 minutes.

3. Look for Shortcuts


Smart work rules over hard work more often. So, look forward to learning shortcuts to do any task. This will increase your
chances to crack an interview and get selected.

4. Apply for an Internship


Last but not the least, apply for an internship to see what’s trending in the market and how much you are ready for it. While
doing an internship, pay attention to your weak points and work on them. This will ensure a success when you apply for your
dream job.
By the late, it’s never too late to be an intern or grab whatever opportunity to learn something new! Here’s how:
How to Start Over and Reboot Your Life When It Seems Too Late

The Bottom Line


Seeing the current market scenario, it is evident that having computer skills is a boon for a better career ahead.
So, rather than struggling with thousands of other things and trying to crack interviews, focus on the computer skills
mentioned in this article. Utilize the resources and experts’ tips shared and look forward to having a successful and
prosperous future.
Featured photo credit: Glenn Carstens-Peters via unsplash.com

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