StudyBuddy

CONTEXT

At LoFi-Hack, we were given the challenge to create an app that was both local-first and local AI-powered, meaning it had to store data directly on the user's device, sync across devices, and run AI without relying on the cloud. On top of that, our app had to also have a cozy, lo-fi aesthetic.

We designed a Local-First AI Notebook LM, a focus-friendly tool that helps users think and organize their ideas without distractions. It features a timer, an animal "study buddy", and a built-in study assistant AI that provides guidance without doing the work for you, keeping users engaged and in control of their workflow.

PROBLEM BREAKDOWN

Staying focused is difficult when distractions are everywhere and AI does the thinking for you.

With constant notifications, open tabs, and AI tools that do the work for you, it's easy to lose focus and rely on AI instead of thinking for yourself. Many students and professionals also turn to lo-fi study streams for structure, using timers and cozy backgrounds to stay on track and feel less alone while working. However, these streams don't offer any interactive way to organize thoughts or track progress.

We wanted to create a space that helps users produce organic thought and think for themselves.

TARGET USERS

Our notebook is designed for students and working adults who need a place to think, write, and organize their work.

"I'll sit down to study for 30 minutes, and suddenly I'm on my phone, watching videos, or doing something completely different."

"I struggle with focus, especially when switching between tasks. AI tools feel like a shortcut, but I don't want something to write for me—I just need a little structure to help me think clearly."

HACKATHON EXPECTATIONS

Local First

Local AI

Cute Lo-fi Aesthetic

DESIGN PROCESS

Since this was a hackathon project, we used a Lean UX method because its fast-paced and iterative. We focused on ideating, sketching, and validating concepts quickly.

THINK

Before diving into design, we defined what we were building and why

THINK

Researching other competitors

We looked at Notion, Cursor, and lo-fi timers to understand their strengths and limitations.

Understanding how users rely on platforms like Cursor to gain gather note outlines and providing views of chats, sources, and studio all in one workspace

Users love notion for its easy to understand format showing you the new page, and giving you freedom to create your space the way you want.

THINK

User Behavior

Many students and professionals turn to lo-fi study streams for structure. We explored how we could bring that focus-driven experience into our app.

Study streams often use cute pixel art and timers to create a cozy, focused environment

Many streams incorporate themed designs and progress tracking to maintain engagement

MAKE

Creating Sketches of user flows and layouts

We started ideating by sketching out early wireframes to get a better idea of the user flow we were going to be building. We wanted to make it feel personalized while also having minimal steps.

Here you can see a very early sketches of our onboarding flow.

In this photo you can see sketches of our workspace where the notes and assistant would be.

IDEATION

Getting a better visual with midfi designs

I then created midfi wireframes so my teammate and I could collaborate better and get a better idea of our Design direction.

DESIGN SOLUTION

1. Personalized Onboarding - Select a buddy

We wanted the user to feel like they could personalize their workspace by being able to choose their adorable study buddy to keep them company.

2. Personalized Onboarding - Select length of study session

One reason users enjoy using lofi study sessions on youtube is for the structure. Having a timer gives the user structure for when to study and when to take a break.

3. Simple Note Design

Since many Note designs are quite simple, we didn't want to overwhelm the user and just wanted to keep it simple so the user could have a space to be productive.

4. Widgets of your study buddy, timer, and lofi playlist

We added widgets with a visible timer, study buddy that is animated and moves with them and a lofi playlist. We made them as small widgets so the user can move them accordingly.

5. Study Assistant

We added a Study Assistant AI as the local AI. This AI is different because it assists you and helps you produce original thoughts. So instead of writing your paper for you it will actually help you write better. It also outline your notes for you and gives you encouragement.

CHECK

Presentation and Feedback

Since we couldn't fully build the product due to technical issues, we focused on presenting our concept and gathering feedback. We walked judges through our design decisions and user flow.

NEXT STEPS

Judges noted areas for improvement, including refining AI interactions and resolving technical constraints. Attendees loved the aesthetic and the idea for a focus-friendly AI assistant.

REFLECTION