NEW TIMES 2025 BACK TO SCHOOL GUIDE 38 Aug 14th- Aug 20th, 2025 phoenixnewtimes.com PHOENIX NEW TIMES Top Tech for the School Year From elementary school to college, technology can make the difference between struggling to keep up and staying ahead of the game. The right tools help students take better notes, stay organized, and use study time more effectively. Whether you are outfitting a backpack for the first day of third grade or upgrading a college dorm desk, these must-have gadgets and apps will help make this school year smoother and more productive. 1. Smart Note-Taking Tools Taking good notes is essential for learning and retention, and tech has made it easier than ever. For students who prefer writing by hand, the Rocketbook Smart Notebook is a game-changer. You write as you normally would, then use a smartphone app to scan and save your notes to cloud storage like Google Drive or Dropbox. Once saved, you can erase the pages and reuse them. For those who prefer typing, apps like Microsoft OneNote and Evernote allow you to organize class notes into digital notebooks that can be accessed from any device. Both make it simple to tag, search, and share notes, which is especially helpful for group projects. 2. Digital Planning and Scheduling A strong schedule is the backbone of academic success. Google Calendar remains a top choice for students of all ages. It can send reminders, allow you to block off study time, and even share schedules with classmates or family. For those who prefer an all-in-one productivity hub, Notion is worth exploring. It combines a calendar, to-do list, and note-taking platform in one space. Students can create personalized dashboards to keep track of assignments, deadlines, and exam schedules in a visually appealing way. 3. Study and Focus Apps Staying focused can be one of the biggest challenges during the school year. Forest helps students resist the urge to pick up their phones. When you start a focus session, you plant a virtual tree. The longer you stay off your phone, the more your tree grows, and over time you can build an entire digital forest. For memorization and quick review, Quizlet is a proven favorite. Students can create custom flashcards or use pre-made sets to study any subject. It is especially helpful for vocabulary, formulas, and historical facts. 4. Must-Have Hardware For on-the-go students, a lightweight laptop or tablet with a detachable keyboard is essential. Models like the Microsoft Surface Go or iPad Air with a keyboard case offer portability without sacrificing performance. Wireless earbuds such as Apple AirPods or budget-friendly alternatives are perfect for listening to recorded lectures, language lessons, or focus playlists. A portable charger is another must-have, ensuring devices stay powered during long school days. The best tech for the school year is not about having the most expensive gadgets but about choosing tools that help you learn more efficiently and stay organized. By pairing smart note-taking options with effective scheduling and focus tools, students can set themselves up for success from day one.
