Assistive Technology Specialists understand the many ways that being distracted impacts productivity and time management. Try the Bear Focus timer to help you stay focused on a task.

Let’s face it: the next distraction is always around the corner when it comes to studying. Between our phones, pets, roommates, relationships, part-time jobs, and the overwhelming urge to procrastinate, it’s no wonder that concentration can be a challenge. The Bear Focus Timer is a time management and white noise app available for Android & iOS.  The app is based on the Pomodoro Technique, a time management system that consists of designated blocks of time for focused work followed by a short break. 

Setting Up Your Focus Sessions

Bear Focus Timer allows you to customize the length of your focus sessions and rest breaks. The interface is simple to use and contains fun illustrations of a bear named Tom, who supports you during your focus sessions.

Here’s one way to set up my focus cycles:

• 25-minute focus sessions followed by a 5-minute break x  3 or 4 sessions in a row
  
  
• Once these sessions are over, take a long break of 30-60 minutes before starting another cycle.

 

Adding White Noise to Maximize Focus

Another great feature of this app is the ability to play white noise during your focus session. Several options are available, including a thunderstorm, wind sounds, and a crackling campfire.

Starting Your Session

When you complete a focus session, Tom the Bear will be there to praise you throughout the whole experience. He, too, will take a break when you take a break—he often loves to spend his breaks fishing.