Easy Tools to Boost Productivity
Sometimes days just aren't long enough. Do you need to get more done? If you want to start checking things off of your to-do list, check out some of these productivity-boosting tools.
Remember, the goal is to be more productive—not to collect a bunch of apps and programs—so make sure the tools that you choose will actually save you time and energy. Whatever you use, be sure to refine your system to make your tools work for you, not the other way around.
Whether you need mind mapping tools, time tracking services, organization tools, scheduling tools, or productivity applications, there are loads of productivity tools available. Here are some great tools to stay productive.
Distraction Eliminators
These are tools that restrict your access to social networking sites and other time-wasting sites for a set amount of time. Freedom (available for Mac or Windows) is one such tool. You can block all Internet browsing, email, etc. for any length of time from 15 minutes to 8 hours. And once you do, there’s no way to reverse it, except rebooting your computer. A Freedom trial is free, and then it’s $10 for a license.
Similar programs include SelfControl and LeechBlock, a Firefox extension designed to block distracting websites.
Time Trackers
A paper and a pen are timeless classics, but they have some obvious limitations. Image by Rawich.
Some tools help you divide your time into manageable blocks and encourage you to take appropriate breaks. Pomodairo is a freeware Adobe Air application for working with the Pomodoro technique, a method of dividing your work into 25-minute intervals. It includes the obligatory timer, but also includes a task list, and tracks work along with unplanned interruptions.
Similar programs include FocusBooster, SlimTimer, TrackTime, TimeTracker, TimeOut, and Harvest.
Memory Boosters
These are tools that let you memorize lists of information in the most logical way. One such tool is Anki, an open source program which makes remembering things easy. Anki lets you study on your own computer, online, on your cell phone, or on other portable devices like an iPad.
Many programs let you sync between devices, and even share with friends. Memrise is a similar program with great built-in language-learning functionalities.
Access Your Information
Tools such as Dropbox, Evernote, and Google Docs make your information available to you from almost anywhere. All three can be accessed via desktop computer, laptop, tablet, and smartphone. If needed, they can also be accessed from any web-enabled computer, for when you don’t have one of your own devices with you.
List Managers
There are lots of great to-do apps like Remember The Milk, a free service to help manage your to-do list. Most are simple to use and can be accessed anywhere with an Internet connection. Many sync with iPhone, Android, and Blackberry apps.
Similar programs include TaskThis, Orchestrate, Todoist, Neptune, and Gubb.
Password Managers
One last great productivity tool is LastPass. LastPass is a free password manager that makes web browsing easier and more secure by encrypting your data. Just log into LastPass and the tool will automatically securely log you into whichever websites you've enabled. If you store your home address, telephone number, and credit-card details in the vault, it can also complete all the forms needed to buy goods online.
Similar programs include Roboform and KeePassX.
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