Study Hacks

Western Seminary's Advising Team has put together a list of free external resources for students looking for helpful "study hacks."

Step Bible (stepbible.org)

Stepbible.org is a free online resource designed to deepen your understanding of Scripture by providing access to original languages, translations, and study tools—all in one place.

Here’s how to use it for seminary studies:

  • Explore the Text: Search for any Bible verse or passage to view it in multiple translations, including the original Greek or Hebrew.
  • Use the Tools: Hover over words in the text to see definitions, parsing, and cross-references. This is especially helpful for word studies and exegesis.
  • Customize Your Study: Add parallel translations, interlinear texts, or commentary notes to enrich your understanding.
  • Save Your Work: Create an account to save favorite verses and notes for future reference.

step bible

Spoken Allowed Content

You can use the “Speak Screen” accessibility feature to have IOS device read books aloud using Siri or other high-quality voice.

This works especially well with Kindle books, the screen reader will automatically change the page as it reads, and the iPhone can be locked while the books is being read aloud.

Zotero

Zotero is a free, open-source research and citation management application that streamlines citing, referencing and collecting research materials.

Zotero works with internet browser plugins so students and researchers can instantly clip and save research materials for quick reference.

zotero

Pomodoro Timers: A Simple Tool for Focused Study

The Pomodoro Technique is a time management method designed to boost productivity by breaking work into focused intervals, typically 25 minutes, followed by a 5-minute break. After four sessions, take a longer 15–30-minute break.

Here’s how to use it for seminary studies:

Set a Goal: Decide what task you’ll focus on, such as reading a theology text, writing a paper, or reviewing Greek vocabulary.
Set the Timer: Use a timer (app or physical) for 25 minutes. During this time, eliminate distractions and commit to working solely on your task.
Take Breaks: When the timer rings, step away for 5 minutes to stretch, pray, or rest your mind.
Repeat: Complete up to four Pomodoros before taking a longer break.

This method helps combat procrastination, improves focus, and keeps you energized for deep theological and academic work.

pomodoro

Chillhop Radio | Deep Focus Study Music

Listening to music while studying can be nice, but it can be hard to find the right type of music to leave on for a long period of focus. Chillhop Radio allows users to pick mood of instrumental music, and also includes fully customizable background noise presets for optimal focusing.

This way, users can set their preference and not have to fiddle with changing songs or finding music without distracting lyrics.

webhop