Essential Browser Extensions for Online Learning

In the era of online learning, browser extensions and ad-blockers have become indispensable tools. We have curated a list of some useful and free extensions that can enhance your online study experience. Please note that we strive to provide accurate information, but we welcome corrections and additions.

Browser Compatibility and Privacy

These extensions are compatible with various browsers such as Edge, Brave, Firefox, Chrome, etc. Each of these browsers supports a web extension store, allowing you to add extensions from either their own store or others. For instance, Edge supports both Edge add-ons and Chrome Web Store extensions.

Before adding any extension, we recommend checking the privacy details as some extensions may contain adware or malfunction. On Chrome, you can check the reviews, while Firefox marks some extensions as “recommended”.

Ad Blockers and Related Extensions

uBlock Origin: uBlock Origin is a reliable ad-blocker with additional functionalities. It occasionally blocks unsafe websites, providing a safer browsing experience. The original version is developed by Raymond Hill (Gorhill). It is effective for ad-blocking and securing your browsing when downloading lectures or books from various sites. It also handles YouTube ads efficiently.

YouTube Extensions

Enhancer for YouTube by Maxime RF: This extension offers a plethora of YouTube customizations, enhancing your viewing experience.

Distraction Free Tube (DF Tube) by Calkuta: DF Tube helps you focus on your studies by removing homepage videos, sidebar videos, merch, comments, explore/trending tab, etc. on YouTube. It ensures that you only see the playlist of the chapter you are studying.

BlockTube: BlockTube is a crucial extension that allows you to block certain videos or channels. It offers two options: Video Title Blocker and Channel Name Blocker. This extension is particularly useful for removing distracting fan videos or other irrelevant content from your YouTube search.

4KVideo Downloader: 4KVideo Downloader is an application (not an extension) that allows you to download up to 30 videos per day or 10 videos in a playlist for free. It is useful for downloading small playlists.

y2mate: y2mate is a website where you can paste any YouTube link and download the video. We recommend using uBlock Origin while using this site due to the presence of numerous ads.

YouTube-dl: YouTube-dl is an open-source application (not a browser extension) that allows you to download playlists and videos from YouTube and other websites. Although it didn’t work on some devices, it has been found to be quite effective on others.

Distraction Killing Extensions:

Maintaining focus during online learning can be challenging. Here are some extensions that can help you stay on track:

StayFocusd: StayFocusd offers a lockdown mode for websites, aptly named the ‘Nuclear option’. It also prevents you from modifying settings, making it an effective tool for blocking distracting websites.

Leech-block NG: Leech-block NG is another useful extension for managing distractions. If you’re tempted to check a blocked site, you’ll need to unblock it from both StayFocusd and Leech-block NG, adding an extra layer of deterrence.

Forest: If you’re an environment enthusiast, you’ll love Forest. It turns focused time into a game where you can plant and grow trees, making productivity fun.

Impulse Blocker: Impulse Blocker is a simple Firefox extension that helps you stay focused by blocking distracting websites.

Mobile Apps for Productivity: For those who use mobile devices for learning, here are some apps that can enhance your productivity:

Lock My Phone: Lock My Phone is an app that locks your phone, preventing any distractions. The only way to unlock it is to reboot the device.

Forest: The Forest app brings the same tree-growing productivity game to your mobile device.

Focusmeter: Focusmeter works as a Pomodoro timer, helping you manage your study sessions effectively.

Stay Focused: Stay Focused is a comprehensive app that offers various features to prevent distractions.

Microsoft To Do: Microsoft To Do is a task management app that helps you keep track of your study tasks.

YouTube Vanced: YouTube Vanced is an ad-free version of YouTube. However, it may not clear homepage recommended videos.

New Pipe App: New Pipe App is another useful tool for managing YouTube distractions.

We hope you find these tools helpful in your online learning journey.