Smarties are in—and no, not the candy. We’re talking about the people who pride themselves on their smarts and brainy skills. I mean, who doesn’t like being complimented on their intelligence? It just hits differently, like finding the gold at the end of the rainbow. The hard work and dedication have finally paid off. For some, that hard work may be the traditional textbook reading and spending hours going through boring chapters. It may even be turning pages in the dictionary, staying up late, or having 100 tabs open in the browser. But look no further. Open your app store and get ready to download because “smarties” now have a new look, and with these 10 apps, you’re on your way to getting compliments on your intelligence.
1. TikTok
While many hear TikTok and immediately think of trends, dance and entertaining livestreams, the app has a feature built for the mini geniuses of the world—or as I like to call them, “the Albert Einsteins in training.” In 2024, TikTok fully launched its STEM tab for users in the United States, the United Kingdom, Ireland and Canada. The STEM feature trades what the younger generation calls brain rot for educational science, technology engineering and math content. There’s so much to learn on the STEM tab, from memorizing different shark species to discovering why plants have a mind of their own. The possibilities for learning on TikTok are endless. So, the next time someone asks why you’re spending hours on TikTok, remind them it’s not about entertainment or going viral. It’s about learning and feeding your brain with knowledge, thanks to the STEM tab.
2. Duolingo
Being smart doesn’t just mean studying books; it also means understanding the world through different lenses. In this case, learning a new language is a step in the right direction. For all the bilingual, trilingual and multilingual kings and queens in the making, this one’s for you. If you’re trying to learn a new language as a hobby, to impress your family, visit another country or communicate with the customers at work, Duolingo has you covered. With constant notifications encouraging you to complete your lessons to save your learning streak, it’s hard not to want to incorporate Duolingo into your daily schedule.
3. Credit Karma
Managing finances in adulthood can be stressful, dreadful and cause moments of self-reflection. In today’s age, leaving the house involves spending at least $100 wherever you end up. Although everything has a price tag, one app that you can take with you on the go and use for free is Credit Karma. If you’re trying to be financially savvy and on track, Credit Karma can help you achieve that. According to its website, the app offers free credit score checks, push notifications regarding changes in your credit report and specific insights about what may be hurting or helping your credit. The app even instantly notifies you of any theft or errors. It also features tools to track your net worth and provides articles to help you enhance your credit education.
4. YouTube
YouTube feels like the internet’s playground. You have the cool kids, the new kids, the hyper kids, and we can’t leave out the gifted and talented kids—the ones who possess an exceptional level of intellect and flex their skills in the slightest ways. Many of them can credit YouTube for some of the knowledge they’ve obtained in life. Just like them, YouTube can help you learn so much in life. Plus, you’ll be able to flex your skills in the smallest ways.
5. Google Calendar
Organization and planning go hand in hand with being smart. No clutter, no cloudy brain—just clarity and smart habits. Google Calendar is your productivity bestie, guiding you and ensuring you don’t forget any to-dos.
6. Post-it
Physical sticky notes bring color to what would otherwise be boring and add fun to note-taking. The Post-it app does that times 10. It brings simplicity to complex tasks. With the snap of one photo, you can turn your handwritten notes into digital notes—no extra typing on a keyboard needed. The Post-it app can also organize your notes in a grid-like shape. There are drawing tools, typing features and erasing tools. You can even share your notes through other applications like Dropbox, PowerPoint and Excel. The app is perfect for anyone with big ideas that they want to transform into digital greatness.
7. Day One
Holding the weight of being the smartest person in the room can be heavy. A space to empty your thoughts and express the feelings you may be holding back is essential. No one deserves to feel like an elephant is weighing them down. Everyone needs a safe space to vent or open up. Day One is the app that everyone should have. It acts as a private diary or journal, allowing you to record audio, photos, notes and videos wherever you are. When it comes to maintaining a stable mind and clear thoughts, the app is effective in helping you create a healthy habit.
8. AWorld
For the eco-friendly planet savers doing good deeds daily or even those who aspire to do so, there’s a gem just for you. AWorld is an app that redefines smarties not only for personal experiences but also for people who care about the planet. The app tracks eco-friendly habits, such as recycling, reducing pollution by choosing bikes over cars and eating a healthy diet. AWorld tracks carbon footprint and educates people through videos and content. Every smarty person needs to be aware of their impact on the planet.
9. Coursera
Ready to turn downtime into certificates that are credible for your career path? Coursera is waiting for you in the app store. With thousands of courses to choose from, you can learn about business, management, technology, design and much more. You can even learn at your own pace, anywhere, anytime.
10. InClub Magazine
Not to toot our own horn, but of course, the best was saved for last. Every intelligent person should have the InClub Magazine app, even the person who’s reading this article. As published on our website, InClub is a print and digital publication, “centering the voice to those who feel othered—for not fitting neatly into someone else’s idea of what the Black American experience or interest is supposed to be.” InClub Magazine offers a wide range of articles and content to choose from. There’s something for everyone to enjoy. It presents ideas from different perspectives, shaping the overall experience for all intelligent people.
Thanks to this list, you are now the smartest in the room. If you need further proof, look at your home screen. These apps are the gateway to intelligence.
Featured image credit: William Hook via Unsplash
