Quick Reference Cheat

Image via CrunchBase

     There are many ways to find quick references in Windows (and Mac, for that matter.)  All of the Office Suites have a quick way to access reference "look ups" via right-click options (select your word and right click your mouse--options open up in a sidebar.)  Internet Explorer has the same integration in Windows.  But what about in well, anything else?  There are several tools out there but my favorite is a bit of free software titled Kallout.  Kallout works on any word found in any program in any window at anytime in Windows (and Mac.)  Yup, any word.  If you can select it, it will look it up, even in internet browsers.  In fact, it goes online for you and finds your selection (from a band of choices) and delivers in a window directly corresponding to your selection.  What is the key here?  It doesn't make you log into any internet browser to do it.  This saves time and attention.  Added to the function that it works in any window it overcomes the run-of-the-mill functions found in many of the other standard programs...  Frankly, it is just better.  On top of that, it boasts a large selection of other search parameters, easily selected from the little blue call-out that appears when you hover over your selected word.  Sweet.  Easy is good.  If you can select a word, you can use the program.  A broken fingered monkey could do it.  Seriously.  Does it do more?  Oh yeah.  Teachers, be sure to note how it integrates with several other features introduced on this site before (Maps, Images, Sites, and more...eat your heart out!) Students can find this makes even vocabulary assignments a breeze.  From Kallout:

KallOut Overview from kallout on Vimeo.

     This is only one type of reference (and more) help.  Do you know more?  Leave ideas in the comments!