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Top 5 websites and tools all students should leverage on


By Travis TAI June 22, 2021

Today, we’ll be sharing a variety of useful tools and websites to help you with your studies. The truth is, there are plenty of resources available for students of all ages to help facilitate the learning process.

Nevertheless, we do not support or encourage students to use any of these tools to cheat his or her way out of studying. It is important for students to attempt the homework prior to seeking required guidance or clarification.

We hope parents and students alike will find some of these tools helpful as we continue to tackle the new norm of attending online classes.

1. Symbolab

Symbolab is an advanced math education tool. It allows users to learn, practice and discover math topics using mathematical symbols and scientific notations as well as text. Symbolab provides automated step by step solutions to algebraic, trigonometric and calculus topics covering from middle school through college.

Aside from Additional Maths equations, Symbolab also can be used to solve physics and chemistry equations.

By simply entering an equation, Symbolab will generate the solutions with the breakdown in steps for students to practice and understand.

Note

For more complicated equations, users will be required to upgrade to a premium account that cost US$29.99/yr

Similar Site/Resource: https://www.wolframalpha.com/

2. Habitica

Habitica - Gamify Your Life

If you find yourself constantly procrastinating from getting homework and studies done, Habitica maybe the perfect tool for you!

Habitica turns life into an RPG game with your ‘bad habits’ as your mortal enemy. Completing daily tasks for example your homework or study sessions, grant your character experience and in-game currency.

Upon setting up your character, you can define the journey you’d like to set forth. In this example, we’ve selected ‘school’.

Upon selection, you’ll then be able to define your own bad habits you’d like to overcome, daily missions as well as a list of to do’s.

3. BrainFM

It’s been proven that music plays a vital role in facilitating the learning process. Whether it is to focus or relax, listening to the right music can either enhance the process. On the flipside, listening to the wrong types of music negatively impact the experience.

When it comes to studying, classical music has been a go-to music genre for many. However, Brain.fm has taken it a step further by incorporating science and countless experiments to create dedicated music to help individuals focus, relax or sleep.

If you find yourself frequently distracted by the music you are listening to, then be sure to give Brain.fm a try!

Unfortunately, they only offer a 3 days trial. But hey, there’s always an option to create a new account every three days am I right ;).

4. Coggle

Coggle is an easy to use online mind mapping tool. Although it is not the most aesthetically pleasing mind map, Coggle’s ease of use makes up for its shortcomings.

Mind mapping can be a great way for students to visualize lessons and better remember key learnings. With the free account, users can create up to 3 mind maps that can be exported as in .jpg or .pdf formats.

Do note that with the free account, users will be limited to a select number of formatting. To create a more beautiful mind map, you can explore Canva instead.

5. Grammarly

Lastly, we’ve got grammarly. As the name suggests, grammarly helps correct grammar mistakes and give suggestions on how a sentence could be better structured.

Grammarly offers a variety of apps to ensure great writing regardless of the app or device you are using to write.

We’ve found the basic, free version to be most sufficient for a start. Aside from correcting grammar, the app is also able to detect tonality and offer feedback accordingly.

Overall, the grammarly app is a must-have app for everyone regardless of fluency. Even the best of us may find ourselves making basic grammar or typo mistakes along the way.



    Washing Machine Buying Guide 2021: A quick and easy guide for you!


    By Travis TAI June 21, 2021

    My.Priceshop.com Washing Machine Buying Guide

    Washing machines are the most commonly used large household appliance in every family. A good washing machine will help you save time and money while keeping you safe from bacterias and viruses.

    We’ve prepared a comprehensive washing machine buying guide to help you choose one that best fits your needs! 


    Types of Washing Machines and features

    1. Top-Loading washing machines

    The door of the top-loading washing machine is placed on the top of the machine as it is relatively convenient since you don’t have to bend over to load and unload laundry.

    The motor drives the rotation of the wave wheel automatically, stirring the water, turning and rubbing the clothes to create the fast-cleaning effect.

    Pros: Easy to use, Time saving, Cost-effective
    Cons: Harsher on clothes, The higher usage of water

    2. Front-Loading washing machines

    Front-loading washing machines on the other hand requires you to bend over load and unload your launcry as the door is placed in front of the machine. The gravity-aided tumble washing in front-loading is much gentler on clothes.

    Front-loading washing machines are built for efficiency as they use one-third the amount of water, energy, and detergent compared to top-loading washing machines. 

    Pros: Save space, Gentler on clothes, Water and Energy efficient
    Cons: High cost

    3. European VS Japanese washing machines

    The differences between European machine and Japanese machines is another key consideration when purchasing a washing machine.

    European machines consist of front and top-loading models while Japanese washing machines are only available in top-loading tub washer models. Furthermore, the principles used for generating the cleaning effect also differs

    Another thing to note is that Japanese machines generally are not equipped with safety locks. The washer should be kept away from children and pets to prevent any accidents.

    Japanese Machine
    (Top-Loading)
    European Machine
    (Front-Loading)
    European Machine
    (Top-Loading)
    How it works
    • Cold wash
    • The stainless steel tub rotates at a high speed to powerfully agitate the water for its clean effect.
    • Choice of cold/hot wash
    • Laundry can be soaked in hot water.
    • The drum rolls laundry in a top-down motion to clean clothes
    • Choice of cold/hot wash
    • Laundry are soaked in hot water, rotated in the drum and cleaned with strong water flow from multiple direction.
    TimeShorter
    Longer
    Longer
    Pros• Consumes less power
    • Consumes less water
    • Washed clothes are less likely to knot or entangle
    • Consumes less water
    • Washed clothes are less likely to knot or entangle
    • Compact Size
    Cons
    • Consumes more water
    • Lack of hot wash will not sterilize
    • Washed clothes could entangle and knot
    Consumes more electricity
    Consumes more electricity

    Things to consider when buying a washing machine.

    Here are a few tips for you to consider before purchasing the best-fitting washing machine.

    Load capacity

    The quantity of laundry is the most practical consideration. If you have a large family, you’ll need a larger washing machine compared to a single person or small family. As a reference, a family of five or more are recommended to opt for a 10kg load capacity washer.

    Do remember to consider days where you’ll have to wash bedsheets and towels which will tend to weigh more.

    Size

    The top-loading washer is narrower than the front-load washer. Do you have the extra space for the larger washing machine or do you need to put your washing machine in a tight corner? It is essential to put it into consideration before you pick up a washing machine!

    Spin cycle

    The spin cycle, which would be measured in revolutions per minute (rpm), is significant depending on the fabric and type of garments you want to wash.

    Delicate laundry should only be spun at 300-500 rpm, while more robust laundry materials can be spun at 1000 rpm. The faster the spin cycle, the lesser the moisture will be retained when unloading the laundry. Thus allowing you to dry your clothes in a shorter time.

    Noise Level

    Washing machines tend to omit more noise than most other home appliances. The amount of noise produced varies depending on whether the frequency is fixed or varied.

    The speed of a fixed frequency washing machine is stable. The technology is reasonably constant, and the price is comparatively cheaper. Nevertheless, the electricity consumption is high, the noise is loud, the vibration is strong, while the clean effect is only average.

    The speed of a varied frequency washing machine is adjustable, step by step. The cost is generally higher but it is more power-efficient, less noisy with lesser vibration, and the cleaning effect is high. 

    Steam Sterilization

    Newer washing machine models come with built-in steam sterilization feature. This feature allows laundry to be less wrinkle and helps with fabric relaxation that allows the detergent to work more effectively.

    Apart from that, high-temperature steam also helps disinfect and sterilise. Generally at temperatures above 60 ℃ for more than 30 minutes can effectively kill bacteria and viruses, including coronavirus.

    Maintenance tips for washing machine

    • Make sure there are no coins or other small solid objects left in the pockets before washing. It may cause damage to the washer if these items get stuck in the wheel. 
    • Do not exceed the stated capacity of garments and detergent. Overloading the laundry will stress the put stress on the wheel, while an excessive amount of detergent will produce more foam which has a negative long-term impact on the washer.  
    • Make sure the washing machine is draining out the remaining water after washing, and leave the top cover open for at least 1 hour to allow fresh air to enter.
    • Store the washing machine in a cool and dry place. Be sure to avoid the humid environment which will cause components to rust quicker.
    • Clean the inside of the washing machine every month by two methods:  
      1. Place half a pound of baking powder in the detergent compartment with warm water and allow the washer to go through a full cycle without any load.
      2. Place a half-cover of laundry bleach or white vinegar in the detergent compartment tank with cold water and allow the washer to go through a full cycle without any load.

    Top 5 Recommended Washing Machines available on PriceShop!

    1. LG 11KG Top Load Washer w/ Smart Inverter [T2311VS2M]

    Type: Top Load
    Size: 992 x 590 x 606 mm
    Capacity:
    11kg
    Max Spin Speed: 740 rpm
    Wash Features: Energy Saving with Smart Inverter Control, Less Vibration, Standby Power Save

    2. Toshiba 7.5KG Great Waves Front Load Washer [TW-BH85S2M]

    Type: Front Load
    Size: 595 x 530 x 850 mm
    Capacity:
    7.5 kg
    Max Spin Speed: 1,200 rpm
    Wash Features: The Great Waves, Real Inverter, 15 Minutes Quick Wash, 16 Wash Programs, Cold Wash, Child Lock, Delay Start

    3. Hitachi 16KG Top Load Washer w/ Dual Jet [SF-160TCV]

    Type: Top Load
    Size: 640 x 684 x 1,087mm
    Capacity: 16 kg
    Max Spin Speed:
    730 rpm
    Wash Features: Ultra Power, Powerful Dual Jet, 3-Step Eco Sensor, Easy Handling

    4. LG 15KG Front Load Washer w/ AI Direct Drive [F2515STGW]

    Type: Front Load
    Size: 645 x 940 x 770 mm
    Capacity: 15 kg
    Max Spin Speed:
    1400 rpm
    Wash Features:  
    Intelligent Care with 15% More Fabric Protection, Fast & Clean Wash with TurboWash, Steam Away 99.9% of Allergens from Your Fabrics, More Durable and Hygienic

    5. Electrolux 7KG/5KG UltimateCare 700 Washer Dryer [EWW7024FDWA]

    Type: Front Load
    Size:
    600 x 575 x 850mm
    Capacity:
    7 kg
    Drying Capacity:
    5 kg
    Max Spin Speed: 1200 rpm
    Wash Features: VapourCare, Care for hand-wash only woollens, No over-washing, Care for hand-wash only woollens, Easy loading and unloading


    Samsung Galaxy Flextival Roadshow @ Sunway Pyramid 22

    29 September – 2 October 2022

    Flex your best angle and strike a pose with your favourite influencers
    Meet influencers at the roadshow

    Free gifts worth up to RM1,648 for each Galaxy Z Fold4 or Z Flip4 purchased; Stand a chance to win a Samsung Freestyle Projector too!

    https://www.samsung.com/my/offer/mobile/launch/galaxy-flextival/

    VIVO RoadShow by Cellular Wan @ Spectrum Shopping Mall

    24 September 2022

    May be an image of text that says 'W2U X vivo www.cw2u.com.my REWARD DAY Venue: Spectrum Shopping Mall FLASH LIMITED TIME ONLY Date: 24th Sept 2022 Time:10am-5pm SALE AS LOW As RM1 Only'

    VIVO deals at Cellular Wan Store; get V21e at RM999 and other deals such as demo set clearance sets

    https://www.facebook.com/CellularWan.Ampang/

    AUS Roadshow @ IOI City Mall Putrajaya

    28 Sept to 2 Oct 2022; 10am to 10pm

    Source: TMT Facebook

    ASUS Roadshow featuring ROG, ASUS devices with discounts up to RM700. Lucky draw and free gift redemptions with each purchase such as ROG hats, Ice Cube, Tumbler and Speakers.

    https://bit.ly/ASUS-IOI-FB

    AMD Day @ Plaza Low Yat

    26 Sept to 2 Oct 2022

    May be an image of 1 person, laptop, screen and text
    Source: SNS FB

    Lenovo laptops running on AMD’s Ryzen chips have been proven to be fast and reliable (we have 1 machine in the office with that!)
    At this roadshow, get free gifts when you buy selected Lenovo x AMD laptops of up to RM451 (see poster above)

    https://bit.ly/snslowyatAMDday

    All IT x Canon Carnival Sales

    30 Sept to 9 Oct 2022

    Source: All IT Website

    Buying tip: When you buy a printer, calculate the cost of the machine plus the cost of replacing cartridges for the next 5 years to gauge which model to buy!

    Some models may be cheaper but the cartridges are more expensive.

    Comparing with the prices on our website, we recommend the E470 as the entry-level buy as it is cheapest in the market after the RM50 TnG Rebate making it a sweet RM229 RM329!

    https://bit.ly/ALLITCANONCARNIVAL

    Hisense Mega Deals @ Harvey Norman IPC Shopping Centre

    1 Sept to 31 Oct 2022

    Source: Hisense FB

    Items listed on the Hisense leaflet qualify you for a lucky draw to win a FIFA World Cup ticket- and there are 16 units to be won!

    Check out their 100″ Laser TV 100L5F which comes with a free FIFA world cup ticket and another 55″ A6100H TV!

    These models can be seen at Harvey Norman IPC Shopping Centre till 11 Oct.

    Harvey Norman Electrical & IT Sale

    21 Sept to 4 Oct 2022

    Source: HN FB

    Samsung QLED 55″ TV going for RM4997 – cheapest found so far! You just saved yourself RM300 – no need to thank us, go forth and buy!

    Check out their factory outlets at Ampang Point, Citta Mall and Paradigm Mall (JB)

    https://bit.ly/HNITMEGASALE