I never thought I’d be writing a list of alternatives to Cram…but it’s happening, lol. If you are a student out there looking for an alternative solution to the now discontinued Cram for Mac or Cram for iPhone I have provided some suitable suggestions below. Quite frankly, only one of them have Cram’s multiple-choice testing feature, so if you are looking for that I don’t have many great solutions for that at the time (although I’m sure someone will have a great suggestion in the comments that I can later add to this post).

As for flashcard study apps, there are plenty out there and here are some of the best.

Mac:

Mental Case (Mac, iPhone & iPad) – Mental Case is probably the closest in quality to Cram. Although it doesn’t have the multiple choice testing mode they have a unique study case option that could work for some of you Crammers out there. Mental Case isn’t the most efficient app to work with, but what Mental Case offers that Cram didn’t have is a iPad app, so now those looking to study on the iPad can do so.

Study – This study app looks good and is easier to use than Mental Case. Even though it’s easier to use, it doesn’t have iPhone and iPad counterparts. If you just study on your Mac or only looking for a Mac study app this could be the one.

StarQuiz – This app is really geared toward teachers not really self learners, but this doesn’t mean you can’t be your own teacher . StarQuiz allows you to create a quiz and share with your students which means it uploads your self made test to the Internet…sigh. It’s really the only option for those preparing for a multiple-choice test. StarQuiz is another app that doesn’t have a mobile counterpart, but again everyone doesn’t own both a Mac and mobile Apple device.

iFlash – iFlash is an old standby. Really solid, really simple…maybe even a bit too simple. This app is nice, but it’s up to the user and what they need out of their study app if they will appreciate the true simplicity of the app or not.

iOS (iPhone and/or iPad)

FlashCards Deluxe – Has multiple choice option!!!! Also has Quizlet, Flashcardexchange, slideshows, custom text, and a lot more features. This is probably a true solution for those coming from Cram iPhone.

FlashCards – Multiple import options, text, audio, images, and more make this app a complete flash card solution for those seeking a flash card solution only.

Flashcards++ – Private and public sets with Quizlet, Dropbox imports, text to speech, smart study, and the typical flash card app features.

iFlipr Flashcards - No longer being updated like Cram, but is a solid alternative. Was brought back from not being sold because of popular demand. Spreadsheet import, offline study like Cram, smart learning algorithm.

Looking for other apps to help you study, take notes and more, check out this great list of student apps for the iPhone or apps for students on the Mac.

A lot of you have emailed with the most amazing ideas for feature updates and we’ve considered them all, unfortunately we have decided to discontinue the development on Cram at this time.

SimpleLeap Software will continue to have new apps developed in the future, but Cram will no longer be sold and updated.

We really wanted to do some special things with Cram and were going to have Cram help students convert their class notes into flash cards and multiple choice tests. Sadly, our time, funding, and interest were limited in making Cram what it should be.

Cram will no longer be sold on both the iPhone and the Mac, but of course supported. We will continue support, including access to the Cram test portal for the next three (3) months.

All tests that you want to access must be moved to your device for future access.

Cram was our first app and was developed on the Blackberry initially in 2008. We have a special place in our hearts for the app and especially the users of the app. We will be pushing ourselves to make bigger and better apps in the future and we hope you guys stay along for the ride.

Thanks so much for Crammers for everything.

UPDATE: Need some Cram iPhone and Cram for Mac alternatives, check here for other study apps.

Hot on the heels of the release of the iPhone came an entire cottage industry that sprang up around Apple’s new device. Literally hundreds of cases in practically every conceivable color and style from dozens of manufacturers came on the scene to cater to the needs and desires of iPhone fanatics everywhere.

Ostensibly, a good case protects the iPhone from dust, water and scratches, but I’ll let you in on a little secret: the big draw of most cases is to allow iPhone owners to strut their coveted gadgets in style.

iPhone cases are made in every imaginable style and material, from leather to silicone to acrylic plastic. There are so many cases available, in fact, that the tough job may not be finding one that suits your needs but in sorting through the bewildering array of cases, styles and materials available.

In any event, if you consider your iPhone a priceless investment, you will not only be able to protect this extension of your personality but will be able to look fashionable while doing so.

An iPhone represents an investment not only in terms of the initial purchase price but in the data stored on it, as well as the monthly phone contract, so owners naturally want to keep their investment protected against damage. Of course, any good case will keep an iPhone protected, but which one will truly represent your unique personality?

One popular type of case is a skin case in the form of a clear plastic membrane that protects the iPhone against scratches while keeping the “slim factor” of the gadget, but will not protect the device again shocks or falls. A hard case will hide the iPhone’s exterior, but will do a better job of protecting against drops. Another type of case is the flip style which often comes in leather and protects all sides of the device while allowing the user to access the screen by flipping the lid or cover.

The search continues for the perfect iPhone case.

Just as when Apple released its iconic iPods, millions of accessories for the iPhone have been manufactured. The vast ecosystem of suppliers that spring up around any of Apple’s products can be taken as a given and will probably exist as long as Apple’s products remain so popular. In fact, there has been a “halo effect,” as many people who appreciate their iPods and iPhones have chosen to buy Mac laptop or desktop computers as well, driving a demand for even more accessories.

Manufacturers such as Belkin, Griffin, Speck, and InCase make iPhone accessories, and even the famous Louis Vuitton fixed its attention on the device. It produced perhaps the first ever luxury case for the iPhone at the hefty price of $120 for the Signature Edition and $1,120 for the Alligator LV Edition.

How to choose the perfect iPhone case for you? You will want to take several factors into consideration. First, it should fit easily into your pocket, unless you intend to clip the device onto your belt. Secondly, it should have some kind of screen protection, whether it be a thin-film that covers the screen or a cover that folds over. Finally, of course, it should be stylish, attractive, and a true reflection of your personality.

Or should I have placed at final consideration first…?

You might get the impression that the Mac is the forgotten stepchild of the Internet marketing industry. But did you know that some of the top names in Internet Marketing use Macs? Visit InternetMacMarketing.com and get a FREE 75-page ebook that covers everything you need to know about running your Internet business using a Mac, iPhone and iPad.

Yea, you read that right! Cram for Mac is 40% off today only over at MacZot! As a lot of you know these deals don’t happen often so take advantage of it TODAY!

Cram for Mac, the best Mac flash card study app (at least to me), only $17.99. Trust me, it will not get any cheaper than that!

If for some reason you have trialed Cram for Mac yet, head over to our site and download a free trial of the Mac study app.

Here is the link to the savings! Cram for Mac only $17.99 on Maczot!

You love using Apple’s FaceTime feature on your iPhone 4 or iPod Touch, but since they’ve released the FaceTime app for your Mac you are anxious to begin enjoying conversations with friends and family on your Mac.

Here is a quick setup tutorial to get you started with FaceTime on your Mac. Check it out after the jump.

1. Download the FaceTime app on your Mac.
2. Double-click the FaceTime icon once the download is complete to install the application. Follow the prompts to complete the installation.
3. Open FaceTime on your Mac.
4. Enter your Apple ID and password.
5. Click on “Sign In”.
6. Enter the email address you would like to use as your FaceTime email address. This email address will be used by others to reach you via FaceTime. (i.e. contact @ simpleleap . com).
7. Apple will attempt to verify your new FaceTime email address by sending a verification email to your FaceTime email address. Click the “Verify Now” link in your email to confirm.
8. Make sure to note, when you want someone to call you using FaceTime, they simply have to have your email address.
9. Re-enter your email address and password.
10. Click on “Verify Now”. You will receive a confirmation that your email address was confirmed.
11. Re-open the FaceTime app.
12. Click on a contact from the right side of your window to initiate a FaceTime call.

We went over how to add mathematical symbols on your Mac, but of course there is a better way! Whether you are working late night on that difficult math homework assignment assigned in Calculus class today or simply solving the mathematical problems in your everyday life, it may be good to know some quick ways to type those crazy math symbols on your Mac and there is no better way to do this than with a few shortcuts at your fingertips.

I have compiled a list of my favorite ten and most useful Mac mathematics shortcuts that will help you whiz through any math equation on your Mac.

1. Multiplication – Shift + Option + 9 = ·
2. Division – Option + / = ÷
Minus – Option + – = -
3. Plus-Minus – Shift + Option + = = ±
4. Summation – Option + W = ∑
5. Square Root – Option + V = √ (superscript a number right before it for cube roots and higher roots)
6. Indefinite Integral – Option + B = ∫
7. Degree – Shift + Option + 8 = °
8. Not Equal To – Option + = = ≠
9. Approximately Equal – Option + X = ≈
10. Less Than or Equal To – Shift + Option + , = ≤
11. Greater Than or Equal To – Shift + Option + . = ≥
12. Infinite – Option + 5 = ∞

That’s that! Now, doesn’t that make math just a little more enjoyable? Also don’t forget to study for your Math quizzes on your Mac with Mac flash card app Cram. Do you have any favorite Math shortcuts on the Mac you would like share? Let us know.

I have compiled a list of my favorite little unknown apps/utilities that are secretly installed and waiting for you to use on your Mac. Check them out .

1. Grapher

Grapher is an app that’s name obviously gives it’s main functionality away – it’s a graphing app. This app is super helpful to those that need to frequently graph 2D and 3D graphs from equations, for example students. It’s actually fairly easy to use, you just open the app, select which graph type you want to make, which are categorized by 2D or 3D graphs, and enter your equation. The app will graph for you after entry. Super simple, looks good, and works!

2. Grab

Grab is essentially the app that takes the place of using screen capture shortcuts. You can open Grab when you want to take screen shots and need a few more options besides the typical screen capture shortcuts. Grab on your Mac also gives you the option of taking a timed screen shot. This is perfect to use if you want to take a snapshot of an action performed on your Mac.

3. Disk Utility

Disk Utility is one of your more versatile apps on your Mac, as it’s capable of performing a number of disk-related functions. With Disk Utility you can burn and erase CD and DVDs, burn .ISO files as DVD, and create DMGs. There are a number of functions Disk Utility can perform, to read about more of them read http://kb.iu.edu/data/aoxp.html .

4. VoiceOver Utility

You may feel as if the name gives away the apps function, but it doesn’t really. The Mac VoiceOver Utility helps those that are blind or have poor vision use their Macs. VoiceOver is simply a screen reader, it reads the text that appears on the screen through your Mac speakers – perfect for those that are dyslexic as well.

To learn more about how to use VoiceOver Utility: Apple VoiceOver

Remember, you can find all of these apps by searching for them in Spotlight using the shortcut ( ⌘-Space bar ) or just by clicking at the top right corner of your screen. You can also access these apps by opening the Utilities folder on your Mac. So which “secret” app/utility was your favorite find? Which one did you already know about, use, and love? Let us know.

I have something on my computer that I would like to save or take a picture of, how do I do this on my Mac?

Answer:

Well this is commonly referred to as taking screenshot or screen capture and there are a few easy ways to do this on your Mac. There are the following shortcuts:

Shortcuts for Screen Captures:

• Command+Shift+3 – Takes a screen capture of your entire screen. Saves screen capture as file to your desktop automatically.
• Command+Shift+4 – Gives you a crosshair cursor so you can choose which area of the screen you want to capture. Saves screen capture as file (.png) to your desktop automatically.
• Command+Shift+4 (then press spacebar) - To capture a specific application window
• Control+Command+Shift+3 (or 4) – Copies the capture into your Clipboard memory, so you can paste it anywhere you want.

  After you are done taking the screen capture it will automatically stop or you can press Press Esc to cancel.

  Apple Screen Capture App:

  

  There is also a little unknown app on your Mac called, Grab (just search on Mac with Spotlight for it or Navigate to your Mac Utilities folder). Grab is an app on your Mac that also enables you to capture screenshots, but you get a few more options. One option in particular is one that allows you to time your screenshot. Grab performs a countdown to ten seconds to give you time to arrange that “perfect” screen shot. This would be best used if you are navigating to a particular website/screen that has some sort of result that requires an action by the user to be activated (i.e. fireworks upon click of a particular button on their website).

  Grab also has other options that you can find by just playing around with the app.

  Third-Party Screen Capture Apps:

  

  Of course you also have third-party app options (there’s probably a third-party app option for EVERYTHING). Some which provide more powerful screen capturing solutions. You can use the following apps, some free some paid:

  • Skitch – FREE
  • Paparazzi – FREE
  • Little Snapper
  • Grab up – FREE
  ]]> http://simpleleapsoftware.com/blog/qa-how-do-i-take-a-screen-shot-on-my-mac/316/feed/ 1 http://simpleleapsoftware.com/blog/cool-app-alert-divvy/293/ http://simpleleapsoftware.com/blog/cool-app-alert-divvy/293/#comments Tue, 03 Aug 2010 14:48:51 +0000 innocent114 http://simpleleapsoftware.com/blog/?p=293

  I stumbled across an app that I realized I need, because I always fall victim to the “+” sign or green button attack from the Safari browser. You know, the thing that happens when you click the “+” or green button in the top left corner of Safari to expand the window and it simply does something else – well yea I get duped everytime.

  Now although I’ve received a great explanation what exactly the “+” sign does in Safari (and any other program), I never remember and it annoys me to high heck when I don’t get what I’m expecting (one of my VERY SMALL pet peeves with my Mac.)

  Anyhow, Divvy seems to resolve this with simple window management and I love it! Divvy is from a small software group like ourselves and it’s super quick and simple to use. Just open the Divvy window and over the grid select how large you want your window and it will do it. Quick, smooth, EXPECTED results for your windows for everyone…YEA!

  So anyway, check Divvy out for yourself and let me know how you like it.

  ]]> http://simpleleapsoftware.com/blog/cool-app-alert-divvy/293/feed/ 1 http://simpleleapsoftware.com/blog/sneak-peek-a-little-help-needed/250/ http://simpleleapsoftware.com/blog/sneak-peek-a-little-help-needed/250/#comments Tue, 27 Jul 2010 20:52:35 +0000 innocent114 http://simpleleapsoftware.com/blog/?p=250 So here is one screen of Monday and it’s still a work in progress. (click on it to see it’s full size)

  

  How do you like? Well, that’s exactly what we need your help with. This screen needs help being beautiful, what you would like to see, what would you move around (assuming functionality fully on this one image – I know, it’s sad).

  Tell us your thoughts of what you think so far?

  ]]> http://simpleleapsoftware.com/blog/sneak-peek-a-little-help-needed/250/feed/ 8