How to use a focus timer

1. Pick something you can begin

Give your session a small, clear aim: read ten pages, outline an introduction, or work through one practice problem. You do not need to finish an entire project before taking a break.

2. Choose your time

In the room, select Focus timer and choose 15, 25, 45, or 60 minutes. Under Set your own time, you can enter any length from 1 to 180 minutes.

If you are unsure, try 25 minutes and adjust after your first session. The best starting point is a length you feel comfortable beginning.

3. Set the background

Choose a track from the room records, or bring an audio file you own. You can use the room records without signing in to Spotify.

For background sounds, choose an atmosphere such as rain or café. Open the mixing desk to adjust individual sounds or add a layer such as brown noise. Keep the music and sounds low enough that your work still feels comfortable.

Music and the timer start separately. Play your chosen track when you are ready, then begin the timer. A quiet session works too; music and ambient sounds are optional.

4. Add a task if it helps

Open Add a task under the timer inside the room. Choose an unfinished task from the dropdown, or select New task, write a short name, and save it with Add task.

If you already have a task selected, this section shows Working on and its name. You can change it there. Saving or choosing a task does not start the timer, and you can leave this section closed and simply begin.

5. Begin, then take a break

Select Begin focus. If you need to step away, use Pause focus; you can resume with the time remaining.

When the countdown finishes, the session ends and the room audio stops. Take a break away from the screen, then choose the next session when you are ready. Breaks are up to you: Paxroom does not automatically alternate work and break timers.

6. Review your session

Open Your sessions to review your time. To finish a task, use Manage & complete tasks or open the To-do list, then check it off there. A completed timer does not automatically mark a task complete.