What you want you can get Open Source!
There are literally thousands of Open Source projects that you can explore, let us show you where to start.
Free and Open Source Software (FOSS)
Open Source and Free Source applications and programs are starting to be a large part of technological cultures and trends. We are avid users and supporters of many different Open Source programs. The good thing about this trend is that it allows users with good ideas to implement them in any way they see fit. Then have it submitted to the design community for troubleshooting and peer-review.
In education, a very important thing to look for in your sources is un-biassed research, peer-review, and transparent experiments/results. This is the basic definition of Open Source, just for computer programs. It is no wonder that it is trending like it is; it also allows for free use of just about any type of program that you require.
In this section you can find a constantly updated list of some of the most popular Open Source (occasionally Free Source as well) programs available currently. You will also have a list (with links and descriptions complete with screenshots) to some of the most helpful programs I have come across throughout my journey to a good education. These applications are constantly being updated and revised as programmers contribute on a regular basis. We will update the reviews and top picks regularly as we are constantly trying out new Open Source programs, so keep checking back or contact me (E-mail) with suggestions or requests.
Top Picks
GIMP Image Studio
GIMP 2.8 is the imaging studio of your Open Source dreams. This programs offers extensive capabilities and a plethora of easily learned tricks and tools for even the most complicated projects.
Libre Office
The top solution to expensive, comprehensive office studio programs. This is very popular around the globe! Document types are compatible with the most popular, pricey office suites.
Kiwix
Kiwix is the offline solution to the most popular Wiki sites. If you have limited access to internet or are traveling somewhere that internet is not as accessible as it should be, Kiwix is just for you. Bringing the power of information to any console or device.
Latest Reviews
Libre Office - Office Suite Including Word Processing.
Libre Office is an impressive and very helpful Open Source solution to office studios. In fact, it is the top solution to expensive, comprehensive office studio programs. This is very popular software around the globe! Document types are compatible with the most popular and pricey office suites available. It offers almost all the same features that you would expect from a suite that was purchased from an established software publishing company or corporation.
The only differences are cosmetic (in my humble opinion). If you are used to using another program it may take you a little time to get used to the layout and some of the commands (especially the toolbar icons), but, it is very user-friendly, as well as completely Free and Open Source Software (FOSS). It is also constantly a very active project therefor if you have any questions they can be directed at one of many very useful forums. Also, if you have a desire for a particular extension or aesthetic that is not available in the normal download, chances are that someone has made it available for download on the web; trick is, sometimes it takes some searching.
Overall, this is one of the most helpful programs ever freely distributed online, --especially for students. We all use this program everyday, for every assignment. It is nice to know that you won't have to pay for the next version, also reassuring to know that you have the ability to give your input on what the next version should change.
GIMP v2.8 or GNU Image Manipulation Program.
GNU Image Manipulation Program (GIMP) is an image editing program that is available in FOSS format. Just so we are clear there is nothing different about FOSS format than what you normally purchase; except for just that, you don't have to purchase it and there is no restriction on what you can do with your copy or what you can see of the source.
There are several imaging software projects available for free online, but from my experience (and hundreds of thousands of avid GIMP users and supporters), it is the most comprehensive and user-friendly. This is mostly due to the sheer amount of people contributing to its creation and maintenance. Because of this, there are hundreds, if not thousands, of plug-ins, extensions and effects that are readily available on the same sites that GIMP can be downloaded from.
In conclusion, I have been using this software for quite a while now and would honestly prefer it to the ever-so expensive but ever present and popular solution to image editing software. The interface is more user friendly and the program seems to be much more powerful than other options. If you haven't tried it, we highly recommend giving it a chance.
