Captain Ratatype
Three ways to keep learning fresh, fun and anything but dull
1. GeoGuessr: a treat for anyone who loves a geography puzzle
Could you picture a Chilean beach off the top of your head? Would you spot a random side street in Caracas if you landed on it? Go on, own up — how did you get on in geography at school?
Fancy yourself a keen traveller who enjoys discovering new corners of the globe? Then there’s a brilliant app I’d like to recommend. Its name is GeoGuessr. The concept couldn’t be easier — the game plonks you down somewhere at random on Google Maps, and you’ve got a couple of minutes to work out your location. Clues are everywhere: road markings, number plates, adverts on hoardings, the language on the signs. Basically — it’s down to your powers of deduction.
A streak feature keeps you coming back rather than giving up after a day or two. You can play for free or opt for the paid subscription.
2. Ratatype: learn to type quickly and confidently
Naturally, touch typing gets a mention in every one of our round-ups. After all, it’s an absolute gem of a skill for anyone who spends time online. So, where are your eyes when you’re typing? Glued to the keys? That habit is bad news for your posture, and hunching over like that can leave you with a stiff neck and a nagging headache.
Speedy typing makes you look properly professional, but it’s also kinder to your body. So pop over and try our exercises and keyboard games, and let’s get cracking.
A month from now, you’ll be amazed you ever managed without it.
On top of that, there are typing streaks, a free plan and Ratatype Plus, which unlocks unlimited exercises, a dark theme and a completely ad-free experience.
3. Something for the soul (and your general knowledge) — Merlin Bird ID
This one is sure to put a smile on your face. Merlin Bird ID works out which bird is singing just by listening. Hear a tweet, fire up the app and, hey presto, you’ll know which species it belongs to. It can recognise the calls of a huge number of birds.
Next time you’re out for a country walk, simply take out your mobile, and that anonymous little singer turns out to be a robin or a wood pigeon.
And yes, it’s free to use as well.
That’s it from us for now. Whilst you’re mulling over whether to brush up on geography or get to know our feathered friends a little better, why not drop by and take our typing speed test? Everyone has to begin somewhere!
