iPad Starter Guide for Students
If you follow me on Instagram or TikTok, you might notice that I use my iPad a lot – especially for school and planning. As I am heading back to school – for probably the last time – I thought this would be the perfect opportunity to create a little starter guide for people who might want to start using their iPad for school.
Why choose an iPad for school?
The iPad is such a versatile device, on top of being a tablet, it can double as a computer and a notebook – both things that students need. Here are some reasons why I think the iPad is an amazing tool for students:
Digital note taking: instead of taking multiple notebooks to class, all you need to use is your iPad and an apple pencil.
Digital textbooks: you can download and import PDF copies of your textbooks into your notetaking app – bonus: digital textbooks are cheaper or even free!
Annotating lecture slides: you can download lecture slides and annotate them in-class with what your professor is saying.
Digital planning: one less thing to carry! You can import your digital planner to your notetaking app or use a productivity app like Notion to keep yourself organized
Best iPad accessories for students
Check out my Amazon store front for my top iPad accessory picks
iPad Case
something that can protect your iPad while you’re on the go! Folio cases also double as an iPad stand but I also like using a slim case and an iPad sleeve.
Apple Pencil
If you want to use your iPad to take notes you definitely need an apple pencil. There are tonnes of options for off-brand styluses, but I would recommend investing in the apple pencil so that you have access to all the features.
iPad Stand
and iPad stand allows you to use your iPad has a second monitor for your computer. Also, having an iPad stand makes it easier to watch shows and movies on your iPad.
Keyboard
If you want to use your iPad to type up any assignments, I recommend having either a keyboard or a keyboard case for your iPad. I have found the perfect dupe for the Apple magic keyboard on amazon if you want to check it out.
YouTube Feature:
How I use my iPad as a Student
I've been using my iPad for school for the past six years and I wanted to show you all the apps that I used, my iPad set up and some of the things that I use it for. I'm also going to break down how I take notes on my iPad and how I use my iPad for digital planning.
Best apps for students
GoodNotes: GoodNotes is my personal favourite note taking app! You can also import PDFs such as textbooks, PowerPoint slides and a digital planner!
Notion: Notions is a project management app that many students use to keep track of assignments, take notes and planning
Freeform: freeform is an app that now comes on all apple devices. It is an infinite document that you can use to create vision board and mind maps to help you study.
Canva: a lot of students use Canva to create power points or other assignments that have a design element.
What is the best iPad for students
Long story short, there isn’t “the best iPad for students” but there is a best iPad for you! Things to consider are size, price and use. For most people, the iPad Air or even budget iPad should work. For anyone who might use their iPads for more than just notetaking (like graphic design, video editing or even gaming) I would recommend upgrading to the iPad pro.
Digital planners and other fun things!
Check out the digital downloads library for some digital planners and other fun things to use on your iPad!
