Technology is supposed to make life easier, but sometimes it feels like we spend more time managing passwords, searching for lost files and sorting through emails than actually getting things done.

The good news? You don’t need expensive software or another monthly subscription to get organized. Some of the most useful digital tools are completely free.

Here are a few everyday helpers that can save time, reduce frustration and bring a little order to your digital world.

Tame your overflowing inbox

  • Gmail filters: If your inbox is overflowing with newsletters, receipts and promotional emails, Gmail’s free filtering feature can automatically sort incoming messages into categories or labels. You can even send certain messages straight to the archive without deleting them.
  • Unsubscribe: Before deleting another unwanted promotional email, look for the unsubscribe option. Spending five minutes removing yourself from unnecessary mailing lists can save hours of scrolling later.

Stop losing important information

  • Google Keep: Think of this as a digital collection of sticky notes. Create grocery lists, save ideas, organize reminders and check off completed tasks. Notes sync across your phone and computer when you’re signed in. Visit Google Keep.
  • Google Drive: Store important documents, photographs and household information in one searchable location. The free Google account storage allowance is shared across Drive, Gmail and Google Photos. Visit Google Drive.

Make passwords less painful

  • Bitwarden: This password manager offers a free personal plan that stores passwords securely and helps generate strong, unique passwords. Instead of remembering dozens of logins, you remember one strong master password. Visit Bitwarden.
  • Built-in password managers: Apple, Google and Microsoft also provide password-saving features. If your devices already offer one, you may not need another app.

Get organized without buying software

  • Canva: Need a birthday invitation, flyer, simple photo collage or social media graphic? Canva offers free templates and design tools that make professional-looking projects easier. Some features and images require payment, so look for the free options. Visit Canva.
  • Adobe Acrobat Reader: Open, read, print and annotate PDF documents without purchasing expensive software. More advanced editing features may require a subscription. Visit Adobe Acrobat Reader.

Let your phone do some of the work

Your smartphone probably has useful features you’ve never explored. Try using voice commands to set reminders, scanning documents with your camera or setting up automatic photo backups.

Even the simple act of creating folders for frequently used apps can eliminate daily frustration.

The Everyday Genius challenge

Don’t download six new apps today. That would defeat the purpose!

Instead, choose one digital frustration and spend 10 minutes fixing it. Unsubscribe from unwanted emails, organize your passwords or create a digital folder for important household documents.

The smartest technology isn’t necessarily the newest or most expensive. It’s the technology that gives you back a little time.

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