Free Focus Timer for Deep Work & Concentration

Enter deep-focus mode with a distraction-free timer built for Cal Newport-style deep work. Set long intervals (60–120 minutes), get break reminders, and track your peak productivity hours.

What Is Deep Work?

Deep work — a concept popularized by Cal Newport in his book Deep Work: Rules for Focused Success in a Distracted World — is the ability to focus without distraction on a cognitively demanding task. Unlike shallow tasks (email, social media, admin), deep work produces high-value output: a well-written essay, a solved problem set, or mastered material. A focus timer helps you protect and structure these high-value sessions.

How to Use the Focus Timer

1. Choose your interval — Deep work sessions typically last 60–90 minutes. Set the timer to match.
2. Eliminate distractions — Close tabs, silence your phone, and turn on fullscreen mode.
3. Work on one task — Multitasking kills deep focus. Commit to a single subject or project.
4. Take a real break — When the alarm sounds, step away from the screen. Walk, stretch, or hydrate.
5. Review your stats — Check your daily and weekly focus hours in the stats dashboard.

Features

• Custom focus intervals — 10 to 120+ minutes
• Distraction-free, fullscreen-capable interface
• Automatic break reminders after each session
• Session history with analytics (daily, weekly, monthly)
• Daily streak tracking — stay consistent
• Color-coded subject labels
• Ambient background sounds (rain, lo-fi, café, fireplace)
• Works on desktop, tablet, and mobile

Focus Timer vs. Pomodoro Timer

The Pomodoro timer uses 25-minute sprints with 5-minute breaks — great for tasks that need variety. The focus timer is designed for longer, uninterrupted sessions (60–120 minutes) suited to deep reading, writing, or complex problem-solving. Use whichever matches your current task.

Tips for Maintaining Focus

• Time-block your day: Schedule deep work in 2–3 hour blocks when your energy is highest.
• Use the 2-minute rule: If a distraction takes less than 2 minutes, note it and handle it during your break.
• Track your patterns: Use StudiesTimer's analytics to discover your most productive hours.
• Start small: If 90 minutes feels long, start with 30 and build up over weeks.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long should a deep work session be?

Most research suggests 60–90 minutes is optimal. Beginners should start with 25–30 minutes and gradually increase.

Can I use background music?

Yes. StudiesTimer includes built-in ambient sounds (rain, café, lo-fi). Instrumental music without lyrics tends to help focus; music with lyrics can be distracting.

Is this different from the minimalist timer?

The minimalist timer emphasizes visual simplicity. The focus timer page emphasizes the deep-work methodology and longer session lengths. Both use the same timer engine.