Unlock Your Deep Work Potential

In a world built on distraction, the ability to focus is a competitive advantage. The Focus Timer is a precision tool designed for Deep Work—activities performed in a state of distraction-free concentration that push your cognitive capabilities to their limit.

How to Use This Tool

1. Choose Your Duration

Select a timespan that matches your task's complexity.

  • 45 mins: Standard high-focus block.
  • 90 mins: The "Ultradian Cycle" for peak performance.
  • 180 mins: Exam simulation mode.

2. Eliminate Visual Noise

Visual clutter competes for your attention.

  • Click the Fullscreen Icon (top right).
  • Your screen becomes a dedicated single-purpose clock.
  • Press ESC to return when done.

Four Rules of Deep Work

Work Deeply

Focus on one hard task. Multitasking is a myth that destroys IQ.

Embrace Boredom

Don't check your phone the second you feel stuck. Push through.

Quit Social Media

Network tools are engineered to fragment your attention.

Drain the Shallows

Schedule "shallow work" (emails, meetings) into restricted windows.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between this and a Pomodoro timer?
A Pomodoro timer uses fixed 25-minute intervals. This Focus Timer is flexible, allowing you to set custom durations (like 90 minutes for Deep Work) or use a Stopwatch mode to track how long you can naturally maintain focus.
How does the 'Deep Work' concept apply here?
'Deep Work', a term coined by Cal Newport, refers to professional activities performed in a state of distraction-free concentration. This timer is built to facilitate that state by providing long, uninterrupted blocks of time without the frequent breaks of the Pomodoro technique.
Can I use this for exam preparation?
Yes! Setting the timer to 2 or 3 hours is an excellent way to simulate real exam conditions. Training your brain to stay focused for the full duration of a test is a critical skill for students.
Does the timer work in the background?
Yes, standard web browsers should keep the timer running even if you switch tabs. However, aggressive battery-saving modes on some mobile devices might pause it, so we recommend keeping the tab open for critical sessions.
What is 'Flow State'?
Flow state is a mental zone where you are fully immersed in an activity, losing track of time and self-consciousness. Our 'Stopwatch Mode' is perfect for this—hit start and see how long you can stay in flow.
How do I interpret my Session History?
The Session History tracks your completed blocks during the current visit. Use it to see if your focus capacity is improving over time (e.g., last week you could only do 45 minutes, today you did 60).
Is there a fullscreen mode?
Yes! Click the 'Maximize' icon in the top-right corner of the timer card. This removes all browser interface elements, leaving only the timer, which is highly effective for reducing visual distractions.
Can I turn off the alarm sound?
Absolutely. Use the toggle switch in the settings panel to mute the sound if you are in a library or prefer a silent visual-only notification.
Why is the default set to 45 minutes?
45 to 90 minutes is often cited by neuroscientists (like Andrew Huberman) as an optimal 'ultradian rhythm' for intense cognitive work before the brain needs a chemical reset.
Is this tool free?
Yes, this tool is completely free, runs locally in your browser, and requires no account or login.