Finding the best planner app for ADHD is hard when most apps assume you already plan with ease. If you live with time blindness, task paralysis or overwhelm, a basic to-do list won't fix that.
We've compared four apps built for neurodivergent students: Booost, Tiimo, Focus Bear and Brain in Hand. Each one takes a different approach. The right choice depends on where you get stuck.
Disclosure: Booost Education makes Booost. We've compared each app on the same criteria so you can pick the one that fits you.
Quick comparison
App | Best for | Approach | Cost model | Available through DSA? |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Booost | Planning, organising and getting started | Plans your time and suggests what to do next | Free trial, then subscription | Yes |
Tiimo | Visual daily routines | Visual timeline with AI planning | Free version with paid premium features | No |
Focus Bear | Structure and distraction blocking | Locks you into routines and blocks apps | Subscription | No |
Brain in Hand | Planning and self-management | Digital self-management and human support | Available through funded routes only | Yes |
1. Booost: planning, study support and wellbeing in one app
What Booost does
Booost was built for neurodivergent people.
Add your deadlines and commitments, and Booost suggests what to work on and when.
Calendar and tasks all in one place.
Checklist break tasks down.
Reach out to let people know what you are working on.
Daily progress check-ins.
Things to consider
Booost has fewer visual timers than some ADHD apps. Booost doesn't block distracting apps.
Best for
Anyone who want help deciding, and with getting started, on what to do next.
2. Tiimo: a visual planner with AI support
What Tiimo does
Tiimo was designed for people with ADHD, autism and executive function differences.
Type or speak your tasks and Tiimo builds a schedule with time estimates.
A visual timeline uses icons and colours to show your day.
Includes a focus timer, habit support and widgets.
Things to consider
Some features need a premium subscription. Tiimo suits people who like visual structure, so if you prefer lists, this may not work as well for you.
Best for
Anyone who needs to see their day laid out visually.
3. Focus Bear: distraction blocking and habit routines
What Focus Bear does
Focus Bear was created by a neurodivergent team for people with ADHD and autism.
Guides you through routines in real time and can lock your device until a task is done, in gentle or firm modes.
Blocks distracting apps and websites unless you allow them.
Break reminders prompt you to move and reset.
Things to consider
Some users may find the structure too rigid.
Best for
Anyone who work best with firm accountability and fewer distractions.
4. Brain in Hand: self-management and coaching support
What Brain in Hand does
Brain in Hand pairs an app with a human coach who helps you set up strategies.
Scheduling and task planning alongside a traffic-light mood tracker.
On-demand support by phone, text or email, 24 hours a day.
A library of strategies and personalised solution packs.
Things to consider
Costs more than the other apps because coaching is included.
Focuses on anxiety and wellbeing as much as time management.
Best for
Anyone who want human support and anxiety tools as well as a planner.
Can you get a planner app through DSA?
Yes. If you're in higher education in the UK and have ADHD, autism, dyslexia or another condition, Disabled Students' Allowance (DSA) can fund assistive software, including planner apps. Your needs assessor recommends what you get.
Read our guide to DSA to see what you can get and how to apply.
How to choose the right planner app for you
Ask yourself where your day goes wrong:
You lose track of time: choose a visual planner and read our guide to time blindness.
You get distracted: choose an app that blocks apps and websites.
You don't know where to start: choose an app that suggests what to do next.
You feel anxious or overwhelmed: choose an app with human support.
Most of these apps offer a free trial. Test two and keep the one you open every day.