About
Catalyst is an AI-powered executive function assistant tailored specifically for neurodivergent individuals, including those with ADHD, autism, and similar cognitive challenges. Built on Google Gemini models, it provides a suite of specialized tools designed to reduce cognitive load and boost day-to-day productivity. The platform includes eleven distinct tools: a General Assistant for open-ended questions, a Task Breakdown tool that splits large tasks into manageable steps, a Brain Dump Organizer to convert scattered thoughts into structured lists, a Tone Analysis feature for understanding emotional tone in text, a Formalizer for adjusting writing register, a Meal Muse recipe suggester, a Deep Dive for comprehensive topic exploration, a Decision Helper for clarifying choices, a Time Estimator, a Routine Builder, and a Social Script Helper for navigating social situations. A unique 'Spoon Rating' system (based on Spoon Theory) lets users indicate their current energy level so responses are calibrated appropriately. Users can choose between multiple Gemini model tiers (Flash, Flash Lite, Pro) and set language preferences. The app supports dark mode, keyboard shortcuts, and requires no account — API keys are session-only and never stored. Released under the GPLv3 license, Catalyst is fully free and open-source, making it self-hostable for those who prefer full control.
Key Features
- Task Breakdown: Splits large, overwhelming tasks into smaller, actionable steps to reduce cognitive load.
- Brain Dump Organizer: Transforms a chaotic stream of thoughts into a clean, organized list for clarity and focus.
- Social Script Helper: Generates simple scripts and talking points to help users navigate difficult or unfamiliar social situations.
- Spoon / Energy Rating: Lets users set their current energy level (based on Spoon Theory) so AI responses are appropriately calibrated to their capacity.
- Privacy-First Design: No prompts, results, or API keys are ever stored on servers — all session data is discarded when the tab is closed.
Use Cases
- An individual with ADHD uses Task Breakdown to split a complex work project into small, non-overwhelming steps before starting.
- An autistic person uses Social Script Helper to prepare talking points before a job interview or difficult conversation.
- A student with executive function challenges uses Brain Dump Organizer to convert scattered study notes into a structured outline.
- A user with low energy uses the Spoon Rating to get simplified, low-effort responses when their capacity is limited.
- A neurodivergent professional uses Tone Analysis to check whether an email they wrote might come across as unintentionally rude or overly casual before sending it.
Pros
- Completely Free & Open Source: Core functionality is free forever under the GPLv3 license, with the option to self-host for full control.
- Purpose-Built for Neurodivergence: Tools like the Spoon Rating and Social Script Helper are thoughtfully designed for ADHD, autism, and similar conditions — not generic productivity features.
- Strong Privacy Guarantees: No account required, no data stored server-side, and API keys are session-only, making it safe for sensitive personal use.
- Flexible AI Model Selection: Users can choose between Gemini Flash, Flash Lite, and Pro models to balance speed and capability based on their needs.
Cons
- Requires a Google API Key for Advanced Models: Accessing more powerful Gemini models requires obtaining and managing a personal Google AI Studio API key, which may be a barrier for non-technical users.
- Web-Only Platform: Currently only available as a web app with no dedicated iOS, Android, or desktop applications.
- No Persistent History: Since no data is stored by design, users lose all previous sessions and results when they close the browser tab.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Catalyst free to use?
Yes, Catalyst is completely free to use with its default Gemini Flash Lite model. Advanced models like Gemini 2.5 Pro require a free API key from Google AI Studio. The core functionality will always remain free, and the project is open-source under the GPLv3 license.
Is my data and API key secure?
Yes. No prompt data or results are ever stored on Catalyst's servers. Application preferences are saved on your device. Your API key is used only for the current session to communicate with the Google Gemini API and is never stored — it is forgotten when you close the tab.
What is the Spoon Rating?
The Spoon Rating is based on Spoon Theory, a metaphor for the limited mental and physical energy people with chronic illness or neurodivergence have each day. In Catalyst, setting your spoon level (1–3) adjusts how the AI tailors its responses to match your current energy and capacity.
What tools does Catalyst include?
Catalyst includes 11 tools: General Assistant, Task Breakdown, Brain Dump Organizer, Tone Analysis, Formalizer, Meal Muse, Deep Dive, Decision Helper, Time Estimator, Routine Builder, and Social Script Helper.
Can I self-host Catalyst?
Yes. Catalyst is open-source and available on GitHub under the GPLv3 license. You can view the code, fork it, and host your own version at any time.
