The Complete Guide to Using iPad Pro for Students in 2024
Since the iPad Pro's introduction in 2015, the device has evolved dramatically, particularly with the introduction of Stage Manager, Apple Pencil hover, and desktop-class features in iPadOS. This guide reflects the current state of iPad Pro productivity for students in 2024, building on years of experience using iPads in academic settings.
Note-Taking and Document Processing
Primary Note-Taking Apps
GoodNotes 6 ($9.99/month or $29.99/year)
GoodNotes has emerged as the leading note-taking app in 2024, surpassing Notability with features like:
- Universal subscription across all devices
- Real-time collaboration for group study
- AI-powered handwriting recognition and search
- Multiple notebook windows with Stage Manager
- Smart shape recognition and diagram tools
- Presentation mode with Apple Pencil control
Notability (Free with subscription features)
While no longer the market leader, Notability remains excellent for audio-synced notes:
- Math conversion tool for equations
- Audio recording with synchronized notes
- Planner templates and stickers
- Enhanced PDF annotation
- Multi-note viewing
Document Processing
Microsoft Office (Free for most students)
Microsoft's iPad apps have become remarkably capable:
- Full desktop features including citation management
- Cloud collaboration with version history
- Apple Pencil support for annotations
- Seamless OneDrive integration
- AI-powered features like Editor and Designer
Apple Office Suite (Free)
Pages, Numbers, and Keynote continue to excel with:
- Quick Note integration
- Scribble support for handwriting
- Live collaboration
- Enhanced export options
- Smart annotation tools
Research and Reference Management
Obsidian (Free, sync service optional)
The modern replacement for traditional note systems:
- Knowledge graph visualization
- Markdown-based for future-proofing
- Extensive plugin ecosystem
- Local-first storage with optional sync
- Support for academic citations
Zotero (Free)
Essential for academic research:
- PDF management and annotation
- Citation management
- Web browser integration
- Collaboration features
- Integration with Word and Pages
Document Organization
Files App (Built into iPadOS)
The Files app has matured significantly:
- External drive support
- Network drive connections
- Tags and smart folders
- Quick actions
- ZIP/RAR support
Documents by Readdle (Free with Pro features)
Still relevant for advanced file management:
- Built-in PDF editor
- File compression tools
- Media player
- Download manager
- Cloud storage integration
Study Tools and Flashcards
Anki (Free)
The gold standard for spaced repetition:
- Synchronization across devices
- Rich media support
- Customizable scheduling
- Active recall optimization
- Community-shared decks
RemNote (Free with premium features)
Modern approach to knowledge management:
- AI-assisted flashcard creation
- Spaced repetition built-in
- Concept mapping
- OCR for paper materials
- Collaboration features
Calendar and Task Management
Things 3 ($19.99)
Premium task management refined for students:
- Natural language input
- Projects and areas organization
- Quick entry with share extension
- Calendar integration
- Focus mode support
FantasticalĀ ($4.99/month)
Calendar management evolved:
- Natural language processing
- Weather integration
- Conference call support
- Focus filters
- Template events
Research and Writing Tools
Scrivener ($19.99)
Essential for long-form writing:
- Research management
- Outlining tools
- Distraction-free writing
- Compilation options
- Split view support
MarginNote 3 ($8.99/month)
Revolutionary study tool:
- Mind mapping integration
- Flashcard generation
- PDF annotation
- Study statistics
- OCR capabilities
Collaboration Tools
Discord (Free)
Modern student collaboration:
- Study group management
- Screen sharing
- File sharing
- Voice channels
- Server organization
Notion (Free for students)
All-in-one workspace:
- Project management
- Note-taking
- Database features
- Real-time collaboration
- Templates for academic work
Focus and Productivity
Focus@Will ($52.49/year)
Science-based music for studying:
- Personalized channels
- Focus tracking
- Session statistics
- Integration with Focus modes
- Offline support
Forest ($1.99)
Gamified focus management:
- Study timer
- Social features
- Achievement system
- Focus statistics
- Widget support
Cloud Storage and Sync
iCloud+ (From $0.99/month)
Essential for iPad-centric workflow:
- Hide My Email for academic accounts
- Private Relay for secure browsing
- Custom email domain
- Expanded storage
- Password management
Accessibility and Support
Voice Dream Reader ($19.99)
Text-to-speech for studying:
- Multiple voices
- Speed control
- PDF and ebook support
- Highlighting tools
- Note-taking features
Cost Considerations
The landscape has shifted toward subscription-based apps, but students should prioritize:
- Note-taking app (GoodNotes or Notability)
- Cloud storage (iCloud+ or university-provided storage)
- Task management system
- Research management tool
Many apps offer student discounts or free tiers with university email addresses.
Integration Tips
- Use Focus modes to create different contexts for studying
- Leverage Universal Control with MacBooks when available
- Set up Quick Notes for rapid capture
- Use Stage Manager for complex workflows
- Configure widgets for quick access to key information
Conclusion
The iPad Pro has evolved into a capable primary device for students. The key to success is not having every app, but rather building a focused system that supports your specific academic needs. Start with the essential apps in your field and expand as needed.
Remember that no single app will perfectly fit every workflow. The goal is to create a system that reduces cognitive load and lets you focus on learning rather than managing your tools.
