10 Essential ADHD Apps for Students to Enhance Focus and Productivity
Discover 10 essential ADHD apps designed to boost focus and productivity for students. Enhance your study routine—read the article now!
ADHD can make it tough for students to stay organized and focused. Luckily, these apps provide tools like reminders, timers, and games to support productivity and structure. Here are the best ADHD apps to help students with ADHD enhance focus and succeed in school.
Understanding ADHD and Technology
What is Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)?
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder affecting children and adults. It's characterized by difficulties with attention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity, impacting daily tasks, school, work, and relationships.
ADHD apps offer valuable tools to manage symptoms. Features like task reminders, organizational aids, and time management tools help individuals stay organized, complete tasks, and improve focus.
Technology is crucial in supporting individuals with ADHD, especially children. Interactive games and educational apps make learning engaging, promoting essential skills. Technology can also provide structure and routine, enhancing daily life and helping individuals reach their full potential.
ADHD apps at a glance
| App Name | Key Features | Pricing | Reviews (App Store / Google Play) |
|---|---|---|---|
- Daily To-Dos | - 14-day free trial | 4.8 out of 5 / N/A | |
- Recurring Tasks | - Free plan | 4.8 out of 5 / 4.4 out of 5 | |
- Focus Sessions | - Starts at $0.55 per day | 4.4 out of 5 / 4.4 out of 5 | |
- Web Clipper | - Free plan | 4.4 out of 5 / 3.1 out of 5 | |
- Kanban Boards | - Free plan | 4.4 out of 5 / 4.2 out of 5 | |
- Curated Music Channels | - 7-day free trial | 4.2 out of 5 / 3.2 out of 5 | |
- Tree Planting | - One-time payment of $3.99 | 4.8 out of 5 / 4.6 out of 5 | |
- Automatic Time Tracking | - 14-day free trial | 2.0 out of 5 / 3.5 out of 5 |
Top apps for Students with ADHD
Productivity and Organization Apps
NotePlan
NotePlan is the ADHD app that brings structure to your student life. Combine your class schedule, assignments, and to-do lists all in one place to enhance your time management skills. Break down projects into manageable tasks, set reminders, and use the calendar to visualize deadlines. With NotePlan, ditch the scattered notes and focus on learning.
Features:
- Daily To-Do’s: Break down assignments into smaller, less overwhelming tasks.
- Calendar Integration: Visualize deadlines and manage your time effectively.
- Cross-Linking: Connect notes and ideas to see the bigger picture of your studies.
- Markdown Support: Easily format notes and keep them organized.
Pricing:
- Free Trial: 14-day free trial to explore the app’s features.
- Subscription: $99/year for full access across all devices.
App Store Review: 4.8 out of 5
I have ADHD with executive dysfunction and always had trouble with finding old notes or tracking tasks over time. With NotePlan and the PARA method, I feel more secure that I’m able to be more productive without getting lost in endless tweaking of the productivity system
Todoist
Todoist is one of the many helpful apps that can assist students with ADHD in conquering the chaos of student life. Capture assignments, break down projects, and set due dates, all while prioritizing what matters most. With Todoist’s intuitive interface and helpful reminders, you’ll stay on top of your workload and find a sense of calm amidst the academic storm.
Features:
- Recurring Tasks: Automate those repetitive assignments and study sessions.
- Priority Levels: Easily identify your most urgent tasks and tackle them first.
- Project Sections: Organize your subjects and keep your to-do list tidy.
- Collaboration: Work on group projects seamlessly with shared tasks and deadlines.
Pricing
- Free plan. Paid plan starts with $5/mo.
Reviews:
- App Store: 4.8 out of 5
- Google Play: 4.4 out of 5
I liked the fact that once you have activated offline mode in the settings on Todoist you can then use it without any internet access which is great when your traveling. Its a cloud based service. There is a student discount available.
Inflow
Inflow isn’t just another to-do list; it’s your personalized ADHD coach in your pocket. Designed with neuroscience in mind, Inflow helps you understand your unique challenges, improve brain processing speed, and develop strategies to overcome them. From daily tasks and focus sessions to personalized insights and expert advice, Inflow empowers you to thrive in your studies and beyond.
Features:
- Focus Sessions: Use built-in timers and strategies to improve concentration.
- Personalized Insights: Track your progress and identify patterns in your behavior.
- Expert Advice: Access articles and tips from ADHD specialists.
- Daily Planner: Schedule tasks, set reminders, and manage your time effectively.
Pricing:
Starts at $0.55 per day
Reviews:
- App Store: 4.4 out of 5
- Google Play: 4.4 out of 5
Great app for getting me organised and has some great strategies for helping cope with ADHD. The customer service is exceptional. Dealt with my queries promptly.
Evernote
Evernote is your digital binder for conquering the chaos of student life. Capture notes, record lectures, snap photos of whiteboards, and clip important web pages – all in one organized space. With Evernote, you can ditch the scattered notebooks and easily find what you need, when you need it, so you can focus on learning, not searching.
Features
- Web Clipper: Save articles, research papers, and inspiration online.
- Note Organization: Use tags and notebooks to categorize and find information quickly.
- Multimedia Notes: Combine text, images, audio recordings, and files in one note. Evernote also supports bar and pie graphs to visualize information effectively.
- Task Management: Create to-do lists within your notes to stay on top of assignments.
Pricing
- Free plan available
- Paid plan starting with $14.99/month for Personal plan
Reviews:
- App Store: 4.4 out of 5
- Google Play: 3.1 out of 5
Evernote is being used by many students across my organization. It provides a system through which teachers and students can collaborate digitally and teachers can check whether students are making notes in class and paying attention
Trello
Trello brings the power of visual organization to your student life, making it a valuable tool not just for younger students but also for older kids. Imagine your projects as boards, your tasks as cards, and your deadlines as checklists. Move tasks along as you progress, collaborate with classmates, and get a clear picture of everything you need to accomplish. With Trello, you’ll turn overwhelm into accomplishment.
Features
- Kanban Boards: Visualize your workflow and track progress on projects.
- Drag-and-Drop: Easily move tasks between different stages of completion.
- Checklists: Break down assignments into smaller steps and track your progress.
- Collaboration: Work with classmates on group projects and share resources.
Pricing
Free plan. Paid Plan starting with $6/mo standard plan.
Reviews:
- App Store: 4.4 out of 5
- Google Play: 4.2 out of 5
I love how easy it is to use Trello’s many features of organization and reminding. As someone with ADHD, it can be hard to remember things and stay on task. Trello makes that so much easier.
myHomework
myHomework Student Planner is your personalized school hub, designed to keep you on track and stress-free. As one of the top apps geared towards students, it helps you say goodbye to forgotten assignments and missed deadlines! myHomework lets you input your class schedule, track homework and projects, and even receive reminders, so you can stay organized and conquer your studies with confidence.
Features
- Class Schedule: Input your timetable to see your classes and assignments at a glance.
- Homework Tracking: Log assignments, due dates, and priority levels.
- Reminders: Get notifications for upcoming deadlines and tests.
- Grade Tracking: Monitor your progress in each class and identify areas for improvement.
Pricing
Free Plan available. Paid plan starting from 4.99/per year.
Reviews:
- App Store: 4.5 out of 5
- Google Play: 3.5 out of 5
Best homework app I’ve had the pleasure of using. I’ve tried more than a few out, and I’d say this one is the best. Good for entering all assignments in at the start of the semester and then slowly crossing them off as the semester goes on.
Focus and Concentration Apps
Focus@Will
Ditch the distractions and unlock your study superpower with Focus@Will. This isn’t just another music app; it’s a scientifically designed tool to enhance your concentration. Focus@Will uses neuroscience-backed music and soundscapes to help you tune out distractions, zone in on your work, and boost your productivity. Say goodbye to procrastination and hello to laser focus!
Features
- Curated Music Channels: Access a vast library of music and soundscapes designed for focus.
- Productivity Timer: Set intervals for focused work sessions with built-in breaks.
- Personalized Recommendations: Discover the sounds that work best for your brain.
- ADHD-Specific Channels: Find music specifically calibrated to enhance attention for those with ADHD.
Pricing
7-Free Trial. Paid plan available at $7.49 billed monthly.
Reviews:
- App Store: 4.2 out of 5
- Google Play: 3.2 out of 5
Just as great as before, but now with an even better interface and functionality. I’ve been using this app for more than six years, it’s an absolutely core part of my workflow. Amazing app - really helps me to focus especially when I’m writing and editing.
Forest
Forest is a free app that turns your focus into a flourishing digital forest. Every time you need to concentrate, plant a virtual tree in the app. Stay focused on your studies and your tree will grow into a lush masterpiece. Get distracted by your phone, and your tree withers away. With Forest, you’ll stay motivated, beat procrastination, and cultivate a beautiful digital forest (and a productive study session!).
Features
- Tree Planting: Start a timer and grow a virtual tree while you focus on your studies.
- App Whitelist: Allow access to essential apps while blocking distracting ones.
- Forest History: Track your focus time and see your growing digital forest.
- Rewards and Achievements: Unlock new tree species and build your virtual landscape.
Pricing
One time payment of $3.99
Reviews:
- App Store: 4.8 out of 5
- Google Play: 4.6 out of 5
I think that its really fun to use my studies have become more interesting and want me to do more studies really worth it app. I like all the functions of the app and design.
RescueTime
RescueTime is like a personal time coach for your studies, helping kids manage their time more effectively. It runs in the background of your computer or phone, automatically tracking how you spend your time. Get detailed reports on your daily activities, identify your productivity patterns, and set goals to improve your focus. With RescueTime, you’ll gain valuable insights into your digital habits and learn to manage your time more effectively.
Features
- Automatic Time Tracking: Monitors how you spend time on your devices without manual input.
- Website and App Categorization: Identifies productive vs. distracting activities.
- FocusTime: Blocks distracting websites and apps during dedicated study sessions.
- Detailed Reports: Gain insights into your daily productivity patterns and trends.
Pricing
14 Day Free trial. Paid plans start at $6.50/month
Reviews:
- App Store: 2.0 out of 5
- Google Play: 3.5 out of 5
Excellent. I have been using the PC version and I didn’t expect much from the integration with my phone (which a a great cause of time wasting), but it is flawless. I took up a subscription, but I would have paid for the free version.
Apps for Specific Needs
MindMeister - For visual thinkers who benefit from mind mapping.
MindMeister is a game-changer for visual thinkers with ADHD. This mind-mapping app transforms your chaotic thoughts into organized, visual diagrams, making it easier to structure information and stay focused. Whether you’re brainstorming for a project or organizing your study notes, MindMeister helps you see the bigger picture and connect ideas seamlessly.
Features:
- User-Friendly Interface: Create and edit mind maps effortlessly.
- Templates and Themes: Kickstart your mind maps with a variety of pre-designed templates.
- Multimedia Integration: Add images, videos, and audio files to enrich your mind maps.
- Collaboration Tools: Work with classmates in real-time, making group projects a breeze.
- Cloud Integration: Sync with Google Drive and other cloud services for easy access.
Pricing:
- Free Plan available. Paid plan starting from $4.50 per user billed monthly.
Reviews:
- App Store: 4.6 out of 5
- Google Play: 4.2 out of 5
Habitica - For gamifying task management and building habits.
Turn your daily tasks into an epic adventure with Habitica! This unique app gamifies task management, making it fun and rewarding to stay on track. Create a virtual avatar, complete tasks, and watch your character level up and earn rewards. For students with ADHD, Habitica’s engaging approach can transform mundane chores into exciting quests.
Features:
- Customizable Avatar: Personalize your character and see your progress visually.
- Task Management: Create and manage to-do lists with ease.
- Habit Tracker: Build and maintain healthy habits with a dedicated tracker.
- Rewards System: Earn points and rewards for completing tasks and building habits.
- Calendar Integration: Sync with Google Calendar to keep all your important tasks in one place.
Pricing:
- Free version. Paid plans start at $4.99/mo
Reviews:
- App Store: 4.6 out of 5
- Google Play: 4.2 out of 5
Apps for Younger Children with ADHD
Khan Academy
Khan Academy is a personalized adventure for young minds, designed to assist students in their learning journey! Dive into bite-sized lessons and interactive exercises that keep you engaged. Say goodbye to boring lectures and hello to colorful visuals and exciting challenges. Whether you’re mastering math or exploring the cosmos, Khan Academy helps you unlock your potential at your own pace.
Features
- Fun, interactive learning: Colorful visuals and exciting challenges.
- Personalized pace: Learn at your own speed.
- Short lessons: Perfect for shorter attention spans.
- Motivating rewards: Earn points and badges!
Pricing:
- 100% Free: Always free for everyone!
Reviews:
- App Store: 4.6 out of 5
- Google Play: 4.2 out of 5
Joon
Joon is one of the many helpful apps that transform learning into a captivating game! With its playful interface and interactive rewards, Joon helps you stay focused and motivated while tackling essential skills. Conquer challenges, earn coins, and watch your virtual pet thrive as you master reading, writing, and math. Learning becomes an exciting adventure with Joon by your side, making every step a joyful victory!
Features
- Game-based learning: Makes learning fun and engaging with interactive rewards.
- Personalized learning plans: Tailored to your child’s needs and pace.
- Focus on core skills: Strengthens reading, writing, and math fundamentals.
- Motivating rewards: Earn coins and grow a virtual pet!
Pricing:
- Free plan available
- 7 day trial. Paid plan starts with $12.99 billed monthly
Reviews:
- App Store: 4.7 out of 5
Headspace for Kids
Headspace helps you discover your inner calm and focus by helping kids manage their behavior and attention! Learn to tame your busy mind with playful meditation exercises and calming visualizations designed just for kids. Headspace makes mindfulness fun with colorful animations and engaging stories, helping you relax, manage stress, and improve your attention. With Headspace, you’ll find your own peaceful oasis in the midst of any storm.
Features
- Mindful moments: Learn to relax and focus with guided meditations.
- Engaging activities: Explore calming techniques through fun animations and stories.
- Improved focus: Boost attention and reduce stress.
- Sleep sounds: Drift off to sleep with soothing soundscapes.
Pricing:
- Free plan available
- 7 day trial. Paid plan starts with $12.99 billed monthly
Reviews:
- App Store: 4.8 out of 5
- Google Play: 4.4 out of 5
Additional Features to Consider
Personalized Content and Support
Many ADHD apps recognize that each student is unique and offer personalized content and support. This customization allows students to focus on their specific challenges and work at their own pace.
Some apps provide a free version to try out, with the option of in-app purchases to unlock additional features like tailored exercises, progress tracking, and more intensive guidance.
When choosing an app, look for those that offer constructive feedback and adapt to the student's learning style, creating a supportive and individualized learning environment.
Choosing the Right ADHD App
Tips for Selecting an App
Choosing the right ADHD app depends on the student's specific needs. If they struggle with organization, look for apps with calendars and to-do lists.
If focus is a challenge, timer apps or those with games to improve attention might be helpful. Reading app reviews can offer valuable insights. Make sure the app is engaging and user-friendly to encourage consistent use. Try out free trials before committing to an app to find the best fit for the student.
Conclusion
ADHD apps can be a lifeline for students with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, offering tools to manage time, stay organized, and complete tasks more efficiently. Here are some of the key benefits:
- Improved Time Management: ADHD apps help students prioritize tasks and avoid procrastination, ensuring they make the most of their time.
- Increased Organization: With features like to-do lists, reminders, and progress tracking, these apps keep students organized and on top of their assignments.
- Enhanced Focus: Tools designed to reduce distractions and improve concentration help students stay focused on their studies.
- Better Habit-Building: Apps that track and reward healthy habits encourage students to develop routines that support their well-being.
- Increased Motivation: Rewards and incentives for completing tasks and building habits keep students motivated and engaged.
By incorporating ADHD apps into their daily routines, students can experience significant improvements in time management, organization, focus, habit-building, and motivation. These tools can be instrumental in helping students with ADHD succeed academically and beyond.
At NotePlan, we are dedicated to helping students with ADHD succeed academically and beyond. With features like daily to-dos, calendar integration, and cross-linking, NotePlan helps students with ADHD enhance their time management skills and focus on learning. Don't forget to try it out!
Can one app really replace your entire productivity stack?
NotePlan did. Try NotePlan free for 7 days to learn how