You’re struggling to meet your deadlines. What tools can help you get back on track?

1 Calendar app

A calendar app is essential for planning your schedule and setting reminders for your deadlines. You can use a simple one like Google Calendar or a more advanced one like Calendly that lets you book meetings and sync with other apps. A calendar app can help you visualize your workload, prioritize your tasks, and avoid conflicts and overlaps. Make sure to update your calendar regularly and check it every day.

2 Pomodoro timer

A Pomodoro timer is a tool that helps you break down your work into short intervals of focused activity and rest. The idea is to work for 25 minutes, then take a 5-minute break, and repeat this cycle four times before taking a longer break. A Pomodoro timer can help you stay focused, reduce stress, and prevent burnout. You can use a web-based one like Tomato Timer or a mobile app like Focus To-Do.

3 Code editor

A code editor is a tool that helps you write, edit, and debug your code. A good code editor can save you time and effort by providing features like syntax highlighting, auto-completion, code formatting, and error checking. You can use a popular one like Visual Studio Code or Sublime Text or a specialized one like RStudio or PyCharm depending on your programming language. A code editor can help you improve your code quality, readability, and efficiency.

4 Version control

A version control system is a tool that helps you track and manage the changes in your code. A version control system can help you avoid losing your work, collaborate with others, and revert to previous versions if something goes wrong. You can use a widely used one like Git or Mercurial or a cloud-based one like GitHub or Bitbucket that also offers hosting and collaboration features. A version control system can help you secure, organize, and share your code.

5 Task manager

A task manager is a tool that helps you organize and monitor your tasks. A task manager can help you break down your projects into smaller and manageable steps, assign deadlines and priorities, and track your progress and performance. You can use a simple one like Todoist or a more comprehensive one like Trello or Asana that also supports team collaboration and integration with other apps. A task manager can help you streamline your workflow, stay motivated, and achieve your goals.

6 Distraction blocker

A distraction blocker is a tool that helps you eliminate or reduce the sources of distraction that can interrupt your work. A distraction blocker can help you block or limit your access to websites, apps, or notifications that tempt you to procrastinate or lose focus. You can use a browser extension like StayFocusd or Freedom or a desktop app like Cold Turkey or RescueTime. A distraction blocker can help you increase your concentration, discipline, and productivity.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?