Get ahead in college with the top ADHD tools for students. Improve focus, organization, and productivity.

Best ADHD tools for college students

Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder that affects individuals of all ages. ADHD can be especially challenging for college students because it can interfere with their ability to organize and prioritize tasks, manage their time, and focus on their academic work. Fortunately, there are many tools available to help college students with ADHD overcome these challenges and achieve academic success, so let’s explore the top options.

What is ADHD?

ADHD is a disorder that affects the prefrontal cortex of the brain, which is responsible for executive functioning. People with ADHD typically struggle with impulsivity, hyperactivity, and inattention, which can lead to difficulty, with managing time, staying focused on tasks, and completing work on time. ADHD can make academic work particularly challenging for college students.

How ADHD affects the brain

ADHD is thought to be caused by an imbalance of chemicals in the brain, specifically dopamine and norepinephrine. These chemicals help regulate attention, motivation, and emotional responses. In people with ADHD, these chemicals may not be produced in the right amounts or may not be properly regulated, which can lead to the symptoms of ADHD.

Signs of ADHD

Signs of ADHD Symptoms of ADHD can vary depending on the individual, but some common signs include:

• Difficulty paying attention to details or focusing on tasks
• Forgetfulness or losing things frequently
• Impulsivity, including interrupting others or blurting out inappropriate comments
• Hyperactivity or restlessness
• Difficulty with organization and time management

How to get diagnosed with ADHD

If you suspect that you have ADHD, the first step is to speak with your doctor or a mental health professional. They will likely ask you about your symptoms and medical history and may also perform some tests to rule out other conditions that could be causing your symptoms. If you are diagnosed with ADHD, there are many tools and resources available to help you manage your symptoms and succeed in college.

How ADHD affects College Students

College can be a particularly challenging time for students with ADHD because of the increased workload, lack of structure, and many distractions. In addition, the transition from high school to college can be difficult, and students with ADHD may struggle with the increased responsibility and independence.

Best ADHD tools for college students include text to speech

There are many tools and resources available to help college students with ADHD succeed in their academic work and college life. Some of the best tools include:

Apps

There are various apps and tools that can help ADHD students stay organized and on track. For instance, apps like Android and iOS reminders and calendars can be used to set reminders, prioritize due dates and assist with time management. Some other popular apps include Forest and Focus@Will. Forest works by encouraging users to stay focused on a task so a virtual tree grows. Focus@Will provides music playlists designed to scientifically enhance focus, as well as attention-related challenges to improve productivity. Additionally, Focus@Will has options for timed focus sessions, distraction-blocking tools, and progress tracking.

Text to speech technology

Text to speech technology can help students with ADHD who struggle with reading and comprehension. By converting written text into spoken words, students with ADHD can listen to their textbooks and other materials instead of reading them. This can help improve their comprehension and retention of the material, as it can be easier for them to focus on listening than on reading.

Online ADHD coach

An ADHD coach is a trained professional who can help students with ADHD develop strategies for managing their symptoms and achieving their academic goals. You can work with an ADHD coach through in-person sessions or online sessions through platforms like Coaching Companion. ADHD coaches are essential to improving time management, organization, and coping with impulsivity and distractibility.

Note-taking tools

Students with ADHD may struggle to focus and take notes in class, which can make it difficult to retain information. Tools like Smartpens, OneNote, and recorders can help students take more effective notes and review them later. For example, with Smartpens, users can listen to notes aloud, and recorders can record notes students may miss.

Prioritization tools

Tools like Trello and Asana can be particularly helpful for students with ADHD who struggle with prioritizing tasks, as they provide visual representations of tasks and deadlines, allowing students to see what needs to be done and when. This can help with organization and motivation and reduce the likelihood of procrastination and missed deadlines.

Self-care tools

It's important for students with ADHD to take care of their mental and physical health. Tools like Headspace and Calm, which are mindfulness and meditation platforms, can help students manage stress and improve their overall well-being. Better mental health can, in-turn, lead to academic success.

Fidget tools

Fidget tools, such as stress balls or fidget cubes, can help ADHD students stay focused and manage their restlessness during lectures or while studying. Research has shown that movement can actually improve cognitive function and increase the ability to concentrate in students with ADHD.

More tips for ADHD college students

Although we’ve covered the top tools to help college students with ADHD, there are a few other resources that are available to help them succeed. Here are a few more tips ADHD students can use during their college experience:

• Consider ADHD medication — ADHD medication can help students manage their symptoms, stay focused, and improve their study skills. However, it's essential to consult with a doctor before taking any ADHD medication.
• Seek support from a learning disability specialist — College students with ADHD, dyslexia, autism, and other learning differences can benefit from the services of a learning disability specialist. These specialists can provide support, accommodations, and resources to help students succeed.
• Use study tools and techniques — There are various study tools that ADHD students can use, such as flashcards, podcasts, and quizzes, to help them learn and retain information. Also, mind mapping is a useful technique for organizing ideas and creating visual representations of complex concepts.
• Stay organized with a to-do list and syllabus — It's crucial for ADHD students to stay organized and manage their time effectively. A to-do list can help students prioritize their tasks, while a syllabus can help them plan ahead and stay on track.
• Attend office hours — College professors often hold office hours, which are opportunities for students to ask questions and receive support. Attending these sessions can be helpful for ADHD students who need extra guidance and support.
• Build self-esteem — College students with ADHD often struggle with self-esteem issues. However, participating in social media groups such as Additude and CHADD can help students build connections with other ADHD learners and boost their self-esteem.

Overcome ADHD with Speechify

Higher education students with ADHD often struggle with reading and staying focused for extended periods of time, especially when it comes to reading dense or lengthy texts. This can lead to frustration, procrastination, and difficulty retaining important information.

Speechify can be a helpful tool in addressing these challenges. The app uses text to speech technology to convert any digital or written text into spoken words, which can make it easier for students with ADHD to engage with the material. By listening to the text instead of reading it, individuals with ADHD can reduce the cognitive demands required for reading and focus more on understanding the content.

In addition, Speechify offers a range of customization options, including the ability to adjust the speed of the speech, change the voice, and highlight the text as it is spoken. These features can help individuals with ADHD stay engaged and focused while listening to the content.

Sign up for Speechify for free today, overcome ADHD and achieve college success.

FAQ

What is the IEP?

IEP stands for Individualized Education Program. It is a plan developed by a team of educators, parents or guardians, and sometimes the student to meet the unique educational needs of a student with a disability, including ADHD.

How can I ensure I don’t wait until the last minute in college?

Break larger assignments into smaller, more manageable tasks, and create a schedule with specific deadlines for each task.

How much time should I spend studying in college?

The amount of time you should spend studying in college can vary depending on factors such as your academic workload, learning style, and academic goals. However, as a general guideline, most experts recommend that college students spend at least 2-3 hours of study time per credit hour per week.

What is a deficit disorder?

A deficit disorder is a condition that affects a person's ability to function effectively in certain areas of their life, such as ADHD. These individuals may need support programs to help them reach their full potential.