Writing

Read&Write for Google Chrome is a Chrome extension with a variety of functions, including those to assist with reading, writing, research, and study skills. Helpful to anyone with reading difficulties, those who speak English as a second language, those who learn best by listening, those who need help focusing on what they are reading, and more.

What does it cost? All LBCC students and staff have premium access to Read&Write features within the Google Chrome Extension.

How to get it: Visit the Read&Write page for more information about to get access to Read&Write for Google Chrome.

An online service that checks your writing and offers suggestions for improvement. Helpful for students who may benefit from assistance with grammar and sentence structure as well as students who speak English as a second language.

Upload documents to the Grammarly website to have them checked for grammatical errors or add the Chrome Extension to have it check your work within Google Suite and other web-based programs. Watch this short demo video to see it in action.

What does it cost? There is a free version that works for most, with the option of an advanced version for approximately $11 per month.

How to get it: Sign up for an account at the Grammarly website or add the Grammarly Chrome Extension.

Apple computer and laptop users have high-quality dictation technology built right into their operating systems, so there's no need to buy extra software.

Watch a demo on using Dictation on a Mac or check out Apple's support site to learn how to set up dictation and use your voice to enter text on your Mac.

Windows computer and laptop users have high-quality dictation technology built right into their operating systems, so there's no need to buy extra software.

Watch a demo on setting up Speech Recognition in Windows or check out Windows Central for a good article on how to set up and use Windows 10 speech recognition.

Google's easy-to-use dictation technology runs in the Chrome web browser. It's a good option for students who use Google Docs for their work.

What does it cost? Nothing! Since LBCC is a Google for Education institution, all students and staff have access to Google Voice for free with their Google account.

How to get it: Check out Google's Type with your voice web page for instructions on how to set up instructions and voice commands for dictation and editing.

This free mind-mapping tool lets you create mind maps and turn them into outline that you can download and edit or copy into Google Docs. Visual learners may find this helpful for brainstorming, organizing their thoughts, and creating outlines.

What does it cost? Nothing!

How to get it:

• Mindomo on the App Store
• Mindomo on Google Play
• Mindomo software download (compatible with Mac and Windows).

This web-based mind mapping tool lets you create mind maps and share them with others. You can add images, videos, and files. Visual learners may find MindMeister helpful for brainstorming and organizing their thoughts.

It's easy to use - sign up for an account and follow the prompts to get started.

What does it cost? It's free for up to three mind maps at a time. For unlimited mind maps and more features, pay $5 per month.

How to get it: Access at MindMeister.com.

Popplet and Bubbl.us are completely free to use mind-mapping tools. They offer fewer features than MindMeister, but are great for generating ideas before you begin writing.

Popplet on the App Store is also available for purchase for $5.