GoalPad

Inspiration

I wanted a single place where learning and productivity could come together. Most apps focus only on notes or only on schedules, but none bring weekly planning, curated resources, and active practice into one space. That’s what inspired me to build GoalPad.

What it does

GoalPad helps learners set a six-month target and follow through with clear weekly todos. Each week is supported with related YouTube playlists that can be watched directly inside the app. There’s also an AI quiz generator to test knowledge and a sticky notes wall to capture quick ideas and reminders.

How I built it

I built GoalPad with a Next.js frontend and a FastAPI backend, using PostgreSQL for data storage. Tailwind CSS gave me a clean design, and React Icons with Geist font added polish. For AI features like plan generation and quizzes, I integrated language models into the backend.

Challenges I ran into

Balancing simplicity with multiple features was tough. I had to design a dashboard that feels intuitive rather than overwhelming. Integrating YouTube playlists in a smooth, distraction-free way also required some trial and error. Finally, making AI quizzes relevant to the weekly plan took careful prompt design.

Accomplishments that I'm proud of

I’m proud of creating a working prototype that actually feels helpful for learners. The combination of weekly todos, playlist viewing, quizzes, and notes makes it more than just another planner. Seeing the pieces come together into one seamless experience was a big milestone for me.

What I learned

I learned the importance of designing around user flow, not just features. Even powerful tools can feel clunky without the right experience. I also got better at breaking down big goals into smaller deliverables, both for the app and for my own development process.

What's next for GoalPad

I want to make GoalPad more personalized by letting users refine their plans based on progress and preferences. I’m also looking to expand beyond YouTube to include more resources and improve collaboration features, so learners can share plans and notes. The vision is to make GoalPad a true growth companion.

Built With

• fastapi
• nextjs