They say we never stop learning, and it’s true, experience is the greatest teacher.
But if you’ve ever dreamed of learning a language, mastering a musical instrument, or discovering a new branch of literature, you’ll know how hard it is to get started on your journey of self-education.
Learning requires time, energy, and the confidence to try and fail.
Your goals may be as simple as building a new routine, such as pushing yourself to read more, or reach for a cryptic crossword rather than your phone in the morning.
Otherwise, you may be looking to take a qualification and learn a new skill for work, or take your polyglot capabilities beyond the half-forgotten high school French you once knew to have greater fluency on your holiday.
Whatever you’re looking to learn, these are five fantastic tools for independent learners to master a new skill.
1. Libraries
A library is one of the most valuable tools a learner can have at their disposal.
As well as physical books, a library membership can give you access to a wealth of resources.
Additionally, you can request materials if they aren’t available. Plus, many libraries are part of a network, meaning you can access books from a number of neighbouring libraries.
2. Skill Learning Platforms
Since the rise of language learning apps, the idea of a learning app on the go has been adapted for a range of subjects.
For instance, some platforms work similarly to teach users coding, while others are music apps where users can learn voice, guitar and piano.
While these tools are not always thorough, they can be an introductory path into the topic, helping users grasp the basics and decide whether they want to commit to further learning.
If this is the case, you can find more advanced programmes too. There are market leaders in the language-learning industry, while free and impressively thorough sources also exist for learning coding.
3. Online Quiz Tools
Online quizzes are a great way to assess how your learning is coming along.
You can build your own quizzes, access databases of other users’ quizzes or even create your own with AI.
One of the drawbacks of solo study is that it is hard to know how you’re performing. Quiz tools can help you assess your progress and give you the confidence to keep going.
4. Group Study
One of the best ways to learn is from others who share your passion, and you can easily find groups online for this purpose.
Local community groups may use event management tools to organise in-person gatherings.
You’ll benefit from those who are further along their learning journey as well as supporting those who are just starting out.
You’ll benefit from those who are further along their learning journey as well as supporting those who are just starting out.
5. Time Planning Software
One of the biggest challenges in self-learning is allocating time.
There are tools which can help you plan and safeguard your time.
If distraction is a challenge for you, site blocking tools can limit your access to sites that take up too much of your time.
Meanwhile, time planning tools can help you plan your time and block out periods for focus and learning, helping you to exercise discipline and keep your learning on schedule.
If you dream of exploring a new discipline but don’t know where to start, these five tools are a fantastic starting point for any autodidact.
