Focus Sessions
Deep, distraction-free work with timers, session tracking, and interruption logging
What is a Focus Session?
A Focus Session is GoingOffline's distraction-free work mode. When you start a focus session, the app removes all UI clutter and shows only:
- • The task you're working on
- • A countdown timer (default 50 minutes)
- • Pause/resume/complete controls
- • An interruption logger
Nothing else. No notifications, no sidebar, no temptations. Just you and the work.
How to Start a Focus Session
Method 1: From Today Page
On the Today page, you'll see a "Start Focus" button on your suggested next task (or any task in your Today's Plan). Click it to enter focus mode for that task.
Method 2: From Any Task
Click into any task's detail view and click the "Focus" button. This works from the Inbox, Board, or Project views.
Method 3: From Timeline
If you've scheduled a task on the Day Timeline, click the task card and select "Start Focus."
What You'll See During a Session
⏱️ Countdown Timer
The timer counts down from your chosen duration (default 50 minutes, customizable in Settings). When it hits zero, you'll get a subtle notification to take a break.
📝 Task Details
The task title and description are visible at the top so you remember what you're working on. Sub-tasks (if any) are shown as a checklist.
⏸️ Pause/Resume Controls
Need to step away? Click Pause. The timer stops and you can resume later. GoingOffline tracks how much time you actually spent focused (pauses don't count).
🚨 Interruption Logger
Got distracted by a Slack message? Someone walked up to your desk? Click "Log Interruption" to record it. Over time, you'll see patterns in what breaks your focus.
✅ Complete Task Button
When you finish the task (even if the timer hasn't expired), click "Complete." The session ends, and the task is marked done with all your focus metrics saved.
🍅 Inspired by the Pomodoro Technique
Focus Sessions are based on the Pomodoro Technique—work in focused bursts (typically 25-50 min) followed by short breaks. Research shows this rhythm:
- • Reduces mental fatigue
- • Improves focus and retention
- • Makes large tasks feel less overwhelming
- • Provides natural breakpoints to rest
GoingOffline doesn't enforce strict 25-minute intervals. You choose what works for you (some tasks need 90 minutes, others need 20).
Best Practices for Deep Focus
- ✓Prepare before you start
Close unnecessary tabs, silence notifications, grab water, use the bathroom. Once the timer starts, you stay in the zone.
- ✓Single-task only
During a focus session, work on ONLY the task shown. No multitasking. If another task pops into your head, add it to Inbox and get back to work.
- ✓Use headphones or white noise
Block out ambient distractions. Some people love music, others prefer silence or nature sounds. Find what helps you disappear into the work.
- ✓Take real breaks
When the timer ends, actually step away. Walk, stretch, look out a window. Scrolling Twitter is not a break.
- ✓Track interruptions honestly
The interruption logger isn't about guilt—it's about awareness. When you see "I get interrupted 5 times per session," you can fix your environment.
- ✓Adjust duration to task type
Deep creative work? Try 90 minutes. Quick admin task? Maybe 20 minutes is enough. Customize in Settings or per-task.
What Gets Tracked (Locally)
During focus sessions, GoingOffline tracks the following in your browser only:
This data powers your Weekly Review insights, helping you understand your work patterns and improve over time.
Troubleshooting Focus Sessions
Start with 20-minute sessions and gradually increase. Focus is a muscle.
Set boundaries. Close Slack, put phone in another room, use "Do Not Disturb" mode. Tell coworkers/family you're unavailable for X minutes.
Normal. When you notice, gently bring attention back to the task. The interruption logger helps you notice patterns.
Either: (1) Start another session, or (2) Take a break first. Don't push through exhaustion.
Ready to build your focus muscle?
Pick a task from your Today page and click "Start Focus." Just try one 20-minute session. You might be surprised how much you get done without distractions.
Start a Focus Session