Down and dirty with Dapps

I've had a few people ask me about dApps for Steemit specifically and the blockchain in general. What exactly is a dApp? I'm so glad you asked. This works much better when we have a 2-way conversation. :)
"Decentralized applications (dApps) are digital applications or programs that exist and run on a blockchain or P2P network of computers instead of a single computer, and are outside the purview and control of a single authority."
They are made for and built upon the blockchain. Usually, they are made for a specific one. They all have a specific use. One of the best places I have found to discover them is https://stateofthedapps.com. They sort them by category and which blockchain they run on. They also rate the top ones on the top of the site.
No matter what you need, chances are high there is already a dApp for it. Reminds me of the old cell phone saying "there's an app for that".
Dig in and find dApps for things you are already doing... It's broken down by category for easier searching.
Here are dApps for Steem specifically:

In no particular order, here are my top 5.

1. Steemit. Most of you are using this one and may not have realized it was a dApp.
2. Actifit. They essentially pay you for being active. Download the app to your phone and track your movements. Anything above 5k steps can be uploaded to Steem. So, if you're moving all day anyway, why not use it?
3. Appics. To me, this is a Steem version of Instagram. Works just like it and you can upload video and pics. It uses categories like lifestyle, purpose, art, etc. I think it makes curation easier in the long run.
4. Partiko. It's a simple dApp for mobile. It works on a point system. You get points for different actions ie posting, voting and commenting, etc.
5. Steempress. This allows you to write blog posts and whatnot in WordPress. It is a plugin you add. When you're done writing and hit submit, it automatically posts on Steem as well.
   As I said before, there is pretty much a dApp for everything. The ones I listed are for Steem. There are probably hundreds more across all the platforms.
   
   Much like anything else in life, try them out and see what works for you. Just don't overdo it and spread yourself too thin. Start with a handful and see how it goes.
   Got a favorite? Let me know below in the comments. I will be sure to check them out. It doesn't need to be limited just to Steem.

Just my .02¢. YMMV
Craig