In our fast-paced world, learning new skills is more accessible than ever. With smartphones in our pockets, I’ve found that learning on the go has become not only easy but also enjoyable. Whether it’s picking up a new language, mastering photography, or improving my coding skills, there’s an app for just about everything. What I’ve realized over time is that the best apps for learning new skills are the ones that seamlessly fit into my lifestyle. I can learn during my commute, while waiting in line, or even during my lunch break.
In this article, I’ll explore some of the top apps that have helped me learn new skills efficiently. I’ll also provide a comparison table to help you choose the one that suits your learning style and goals. Let’s dive in.
Table of Contents
1. Duolingo: The Language Learning Companion
I started using Duolingo a few years ago to learn Spanish, and it’s been an excellent tool for me. It’s a simple, interactive app that uses gamification to teach new languages. What I like most about Duolingo is its flexibility. I can complete a lesson in just a few minutes, making it perfect for short bursts of learning on the go. The app offers a wide range of languages, from the most popular ones like Spanish and French to more unique choices like Welsh or Swahili.
Duolingo’s interface is user-friendly. It uses a combination of reading, writing, speaking, and listening exercises to teach words, phrases, and grammar. The app also tracks my progress, keeping me motivated by rewarding me with badges for consistency.
Pros:
- Free to use with a premium option for extra features.
- Gamified learning that makes it fun.
- Short lessons that fit into my busy schedule.
- Offers a wide range of languages.
Cons:
- The free version includes ads.
- Some users may find the language selection limited for advanced learners.
2. Skillshare: Learn Creative Skills
When I wanted to explore my creative side, I turned to Skillshare. This platform offers a vast array of classes that cover everything from photography and design to writing and cooking. One feature that stood out to me was the ability to take multiple classes in one sitting. Each class is broken down into bite-sized lessons, making it easier to learn something new without feeling overwhelmed.
Skillshare’s instructors are often professionals in their fields, which adds a layer of authenticity to the lessons. I also appreciate the community aspect, where learners can interact with each other and the instructors through discussions and feedback.
Pros:
- Access to thousands of creative classes.
- Classes are taught by industry professionals.
- The platform encourages interaction with a community of learners.
- Available on both mobile and desktop.
Cons:
- The subscription fee may be high for some users.
- Not as much focus on technical or academic skills.
3. Udemy: A Huge Range of Online Courses
For more technical or professional skills, I turned to Udemy. Whether I wanted to learn Python, marketing strategies, or even personal finance, Udemy had a course for it. What’s great about Udemy is that you pay for each course individually, which means I don’t have to commit to a subscription model.
The course material is varied, with both video lectures and downloadable resources. I find that many of the instructors are experts in their fields, and they often offer practical advice, not just theory.
Pros:
- A wide range of topics, including technical and professional skills.
- One-time payment per course.
- Lifetime access to purchased courses.
- Many courses are on sale, making them affordable.
Cons:
- Quality can vary depending on the course and instructor.
- Some courses are outdated or poorly structured.
4. Coursera: University-Level Learning
When I wanted to dive deeper into academic subjects, I turned to Coursera. This app partners with universities to offer courses in subjects ranging from computer science to humanities. While I was initially drawn to Coursera for its ability to offer university-style courses, I’ve since discovered that it also offers practical skills courses in fields like data science and business.
One thing I appreciate is that many courses offer a certificate upon completion, which can be a great addition to my resume. However, not all courses are free, and I need to pay if I want to earn a certificate.
Pros:
- Offers courses from top universities like Stanford and Yale.
- Wide variety of academic and professional subjects.
- Offers certificates upon completion.
- Some courses are free.
Cons:
- Not all courses are free, and certificates often require payment.
- Some courses can be quite time-intensive.
5. Blinkist: Learn from Books in Minutes
When I want to absorb knowledge quickly, Blinkist is my go-to app. It condenses non-fiction books into 15-minute summaries, allowing me to grasp key ideas without spending hours reading. The selection is excellent, and it covers a wide range of topics, including personal development, business, and psychology.
Blinkist is a great option when I’m on the go, especially when I don’t have time for a full book but still want to learn something new. The audio feature is another bonus, as I can listen to book summaries during my commute or while exercising.
Pros:
- Short, 15-minute summaries of non-fiction books.
- Perfect for when I need quick knowledge on a topic.
- Audio feature allows me to learn while multitasking.
Cons:
- The content is limited to book summaries, so it’s not ideal for deep learning.
- Some users may find the price a bit high.
6. Memrise: Language Learning with Native Speakers
Another app I’ve found helpful for language learning is Memrise. Unlike Duolingo, which uses a game-based approach, Memrise focuses more on immersion. The app uses real-life videos from native speakers to teach words and phrases, helping me understand the language in its natural context.
I like how Memrise incorporates spaced repetition, which helps me retain new words over time. This method has worked well for me in building a solid vocabulary foundation.
Pros:
- Focuses on real-world language use with native speakers.
- Spaced repetition helps reinforce vocabulary.
- Offers a wide range of languages.
Cons:
- Some users may find the interface less intuitive than other language apps.
- Limited advanced content for more proficient learners.
7. Khan Academy: Free Education for All
Khan Academy has been a fantastic resource for both academic subjects and personal enrichment. What I appreciate most about this app is that it offers high-quality educational videos for free. The app covers a wide variety of subjects, including math, science, history, and even finance.
The structure is similar to a classroom setting, where I can watch videos, take quizzes, and track my progress. Khan Academy has also recently expanded into areas like art history and economics, giving me the opportunity to learn subjects that interest me outside my usual professional field.
Pros:
- Completely free to use.
- High-quality educational content.
- Covers a wide variety of subjects.
- Tracks progress and provides assessments.
Cons:
- Focuses more on academic subjects, less on creative or technical skills.
- The content may not be as deep as paid platforms like Coursera.
Comparison Table: Key Features at a Glance
| App | Best For | Pricing Structure | Key Strengths |
|---|---|---|---|
| Duolingo | Language Learning | Free (with premium option) | Gamified, flexible, wide range of languages |
| Skillshare | Creative Skills | Subscription-based | Creative classes, community interaction |
| Udemy | Technical & Professional Skills | Pay per course | Affordable, lifetime access to courses, broad topic range |
| Coursera | Academic & Professional Learning | Subscription or pay per course | University-style courses, certificates |
| Blinkist | Quick Learning from Books | Subscription-based | 15-minute summaries, audio feature |
| Memrise | Language Learning | Free (with premium option) | Native speaker videos, spaced repetition |
| Khan Academy | Academic Learning | Free | High-quality, free, covers a wide range of subjects |
Final Thoughts
Learning new skills on the go has never been more convenient. With apps like Duolingo, Skillshare, and Udemy, I can tailor my learning experience to fit my lifestyle. Whether I’m looking to pick up a new language, explore a creative hobby, or dive deep into professional development, there’s an app that meets my needs.
Each app has its strengths and weaknesses, and the right one for you will depend on your goals, learning style, and the time you have available. I find that using a combination of these apps has been the most effective way for me to learn on the go. For language learning, I stick with Duolingo or Memrise. For professional skills, Udemy and Coursera offer the most depth. And when I need quick knowledge, Blinkist and Khan Academy are perfect for a quick learning fix.
As I continue my learning journey, I appreciate the flexibility these apps provide. Learning on the go isn’t just possible; it’s become a way of life for me.
