FocusBlock 1 of 4
25:00
Focus blocks done: 0. It keeps time in a background tab, and the page title shows the time left.
Timer settings
focus blocks (1 to 12)
How the Pomodoro method works
- Pick one task, like a problem set or a chapter.
- Work on only that task for one focus block (25 minutes by default). Put your phone away.
- Take a short break (5 minutes): stand up, drink water, look away from the screen.
- After every 4 focus blocks, take a long break (15 minutes).
- Count your blocks. They show how much real study time a task takes.
Short, fixed blocks make it easier to start, and the breaks keep your focus from fading over a long evening. If 25 minutes feels too short for deep work, try 50 minutes of focus with 10 minute breaks.
Worked examples
Example 1: how long is one full cycle?
Problem With the default 25/5 timer and a 15 minute long break after 4 blocks, how long is one cycle?
- Four focus blocks, three short breaks between them, then one long break.
- Of those 130 minutes, 100 are focused study.
Answer 130 minutes, with 100 minutes of focus
Example 2: plan a 2 hour evening
Problem You have 2 hours and use 50 minute focus blocks, 10 minute short breaks and a long break after every 2 blocks. How many blocks fit?
- Two blocks with one short break between them.
- That leaves 10 minutes, not enough for another block, so end with the long break or stop there.
Answer 2 focus blocks, 100 minutes of study
Why it keeps time in a background tab
Browsers slow down timers in tabs you are not looking at, so a timer that counts ticks falls behind. This one saves the moment each block ends and compares it with the clock, so the time is right whenever you come back, and it rings close to on time even in the background.
Frequently asked questions
Does the timer keep running if I switch tabs?
Yes. It works from the time each block ends, not by counting seconds, so switching tabs or minimizing the window does not slow it down. The page title shows the time left, so you can see it from the tab bar.
How do I get a notification when a block ends?
Press "Notify me when a block ends" and allow notifications when your browser asks. The page never asks on its own. If notifications are blocked, turn them back on in your browser's site settings.
Why don't I hear the sound?
Check that your device is not muted and that "Play a sound when a block ends" is ticked in the settings. Browsers only allow a page to play sound after you press something on it, so the sound is set up when you press Start.
Can I change 25 and 5 minutes?
Yes. Open the timer settings to set focus, short break and long break lengths from 1 to 180 minutes, and how many focus blocks come before a long break. A block that has not started yet takes the new length right away.
Does it save my settings?
After you press something, your settings and the running timer are kept in this browser only, so a reload does not lose your place. Nothing is sent anywhere and there is no sign-in.
