The COMPLETE back-to-school guide (apps, tech, essentials, organizing & prepping)

Summary

This video offers a comprehensive guide for students to excel academically without constant studying. The speaker, a top graduate, emphasizes the importance of organization and utilizing tools and resources effectively. Key recommendations include using Google Calendar for scheduling, OneNote and Notion for note-taking and tracking, and creating a conducive study space. The video also covers the use of AI for learning enhancement, choosing between a Mac and iPad, and essential study tools. Additionally, it advises on adopting good habits, such as daily review, time blocking, and maintaining a consistent sleep routine, to set up for a successful semester.

Takeaways

• 📅 Utilize Google Calendar to organize school, personal life, and work efficiently.
• 💼 Adopt note-taking apps like OneNote and Notion to keep track of class notes and assignments.
• 📈 Use Excel or Notion for tracking grades and staying motivated throughout the semester.
• 📁 Organize digital documents in a structured folder system on your laptop or Google Drive.
• 💡 Incorporate AI tools for enhanced learning, such as creating outlines and finding references.
• 📝 For iPad users, consider apps like Notability for note-taking and utilize planner templates.
• 🎧 Invest in noise-cancelling headphones to block out distractions and improve focus during study sessions.
• 💻 Choose between a Mac or iPad based on personal learning style and the need for typing or handwriting notes.
• 🖥 Consider getting a monitor to increase productivity by multitasking more effectively.
• 🗂️ Maintain a physical planner or use digital tools like to-do lists and sticky notes to stay organized and on track.
• 🏋️‍♀️ Develop good habits like daily review, time blocking, and regular exercise to build a strong foundation for academic success.

Q & A

What was the speaker's academic achievement during their bachelor's degree?

The speaker graduated top one in most of their unique classes, achieved a 4.0 GPA, and received a great Distinction on their diploma.

What does the speaker attribute their academic success to, rather than just studying?

The speaker attributes their success to being super organized and making the most out of every tool and resource available.

How does the speaker recommend organizing tasks and deadlines at the start of the semester?

The speaker recommends using Google Calendar to organize school, personal life, and work, and to separate the calendar into school schedule and school due.

Which note-taking app does the speaker recommend for typing notes during lectures?

The speaker recommends using OneNote because it's easy to organize by class and break things down with subtabs.

What is the speaker's opinion on Notion and how did they use it?

The speaker finds Notion to be an overwhelming tool initially but useful once customized with templates. They used it for tracking, class outlines, weekly to-do lists, and more.

Why does the speaker emphasize the importance of a document organization system?

The speaker emphasizes document organization to ensure that everything is in one place and easily accessible, reducing the stress of searching for files.

What is the speaker's stance on using AI platforms for enhancing learning?

The speaker believes in using AI platforms to enhance learning by making essay outlines, finding references, and understanding complex topics more quickly.

What note-taking app does the speaker recommend for iPad users?

The speaker recommends Notability for iPad users due to its user-friendly interface and aesthetic appeal.

What type of headphones does the speaker suggest for focused studying?

The speaker suggests noise-cancelling headphones, specifically mentioning the AirPods Max and Sony WH-1000XM5, for focused studying.

What is the speaker's advice on choosing between a Mac and an iPad for university use?

The speaker advises choosing between a Mac and an iPad based on one's learning style and whether they are faster at typing or writing by hand.

What are some essential items the speaker recommends for university students to have in their backpack?

The speaker recommends having a water bottle, lip balm, blue light glasses, a good alarm clock, and a backpack or tote bag to carry everything.