In a world brimming with distractions, the quest for sustained concentration has become a daily challenge. Among the tools and techniques, one simple yet remarkably effective method stands out: the humble timer. Whether you use the classic Pomodoro Technique or set custom intervals, using a timer can be a game-changer for productivity. It is a simple solution in the battle against procrastination, distraction, and the overwhelming sense of too much to do.
This article gives you the step-by-step instructions for quickly setting a timer on your PC, Mac, or Chromebook computer. Transform your routine and bring about a positive shift in your efficiency.
Setting a timer can offer various productivity benefits:
- Helps establish a balance between focused work periods and short breaks, optimizing concentration and productivity.
- Facilitates breaking larger tasks into smaller, more manageable intervals. This reduces overwhelm and helps with task initiation.
- Creates a sense of urgency, promoting concentration on the task at hand.
- Facilitates rotation between different tasks or projects during timed intervals, preventing monotony and maintaining engagement.
PC Computer: Microsoft Operating System
Set a timer in the Clock app
- Install the Windows Clock app from the Microsoft Store, if it is not already installed on your computer.
- Type “clock app” in the Search bar of the computer home screen and select the application. You may choose to pin it to your taskbar for easy access.
- In the pop-up window, select Timer.
- To create a timer with a custom interval, press the Plus Sign in the bottom right of the window.
- Click the middle set of zeros to type the number of minutes. Type a name for the timer.
- Press the Save button.
- To start the timer, click the circle button with the play/triangle icon.
- To keep the timer in view while working, click the double square and arrow icon.
- Focus on a single task for the time interval. When the timer alarm sounds, take a movement break.
Microsoft Support article: How to use alarms and timers in the Clock app in Windows 10
Apple Computer: Mac Operating System
Set a timer in the Clock app
- At the top of your computer screen, click the date a time and click on the world clocks. OR You can open the Clock app from the Applications folder in Finder. Pin the Clock app to your dock using the Keep in Dock option.
- In the pop-up window, select the Timer tab.
- Click on the minutes. Type a number to set the length of time.
- Press the Start button. You may pause and restart if needed.
- Focus on a single task for the time interval. When the timer alarm sounds, take a movement break.
Apple Support article: Clock User Guide
Chromebook: Chrome Operating System
Ask Google Assistant to set a timer
- Say “Hey Google” to launch Google Assistant with your voice.
- Say “set a timer for 25 minutes.” You may also use voice commands to pause or stop the timer.
- Focus on a single task for the time interval. When the timer alarm sounds, take a movement break.
Chromebook Help: What you can ask Google Assistant on your Chromebook
Type “set a timer” into the Google Chrome address bar
- In the address bar of the Chrome web browser, type “set a timer for 25 minutes.”
- The timer will immediately begin counting down. You can select stop or reset.
- Focus on a single task for the time interval. When the timer alarm sounds, take a movement break.
Another strategy for concentration and focus
Use a focus tool in computer operating systems to silence notifications for a period of time.
Strategies for concentration and focus when reading
- Digital reading window
- Page simplification to remove distracting online elements
- Quiet notifications setting
- Text-to-speech technology
Other strategies for time and task management
- Add your schedule and activities to a digital calendar include reminders and alerts
- Sync your work, school, or athletic calendar with your personal digital calendar
- Set an alarm to remember appointments or tasks
- Use a project management tool with categorized columns and task cards
- Use reminders to remember appointments or tasks
- Reference a digital to-do list
- Speak a voice note
- Put digital sticky notes on your computer desktop for memory support
Resources
These resources are provided simply to create awareness about additional options for timers.
- Pomofocus – Free online timer. The timer is automatically set for a 25 minute increment; however, you can change the time interval.
- Use a Break Timer browser extension.
Start your journey to greater efficiency
Are you ready to transform the way you learn, work, or manage tasks at home? My mission is to help you implement mainstream assistive technology to enhance your daily life. I’m here to guide you every step of the way.
Let’s work together to identify your unique needs and preferences, and create a plan that helps you reach your goals with confidence.
Contact me today to explore how digital support tools can make a real difference in your life. Your journey to greater efficiency and empowerment can begin now.
< To the Executive Functioning Toolkit page