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Reminder tools for ADHD that actually work
A reminder only works if it fires at the right moment and place. These options range from built-in phone features to AI assistants.
Tools, easiest first
Google Calendar + Google Tasks reminders
Already on most phones; default notifications are a zero-setup start.
Free with a Google account.
Todoist (Ramble / Task Assist)
Fast natural-language capture and voice 'Ramble'; free tier is usable.
Beginner: free (5 projects, limited Ramble voice sessions). Pro $7/mo or $60/yr; 7-day trial.
Apple Reminders + Shortcuts
Already installed; location/time reminders are easy, Shortcuts automations take tinkering.
Free, built into iPhone, iPad and Mac.
ChatGPT (scheduled tasks + voice)
Already on most phones; voice dump works, but you must set up tasks yourself.
Check site for current price
Google Gemini
Built into Android/Google apps; settings for activity are confusing.
Free with a Google account. Google AI Plus $4.99/mo; AI Pro $19.99/mo; Ultra from $99.99/mo (US).
Saner.ai
Brain-dump notes + AI that surfaces tasks; marketed to ADHD users.
Free $0 (30 AI messages/mo, 100 notes). Starter $8/mo; Standard $16/mo (about 20% off yearly).
Tiimo
Designed for neurodivergent users; visual timeline and gentle nudges, low setup.
Check site for current price
IFTTT
Simpler than Zapier for phone/location triggers; still requires building.
Free $0 (2 applets). Pro $2.99/mo; Pro+ $8.99/mo (billed annually).
Reclaim.ai
Free tier and auto-blocks time for habits, but needs Google/Outlook calendar setup.
Lite: free forever. Starter $10/seat/mo; Business $15/seat/mo; Enterprise $22/seat/mo.
Amazing Marvin
Built with ADHD 'strategies' you toggle on, but the options overwhelm new users.
No free plan; 14-day trial, no card. Pro $8/mo billed $96/yr. Monthly billing exists — check site for current price. 50% student discount; pay-what-you-can on request.
Lindy
AI agent that handles email/admin, but setup and credit math are complex.
Free $0 with $50 in credits (credits last 7 days). Team from $49.99/mo (5,000 credits).
Zapier
Automation builder; powerful but you have to design the workflow.
Free forever $0; Professional from $19.99/mo; Team from $69/mo.
One automation to try: Location reminders for the things you forget at the door
- In Apple Reminders, create "Take the trash out" (or similar).
- Tap the info (i) button → turn on When I'm at a location → choose Leaving + Home.
- Android: Google Tasks and Assistant have similar options; check your phone's settings.
Tool: Apple Reminders + Shortcuts. Menus change; if a step doesn't match, check the app's help pages.