52 minutes of focus, then a 17-minute break. Press start and the timer switches between them automatically.
How to use the 52/17 Timer
- Choose one task and close anything that distracts you.
- Press Start focus and work until the 52-minute timer rings.
- Take the full 17-minute break away from your screen.
- Repeat. Adjust the lengths at any time: type a number or use the plus and minus buttons.
About the 52/17 method
The 52/17 rule comes from a DeskTime analysis of its most productive users, who tended to work for about 52 minutes and then take a 17-minute break. The longer break makes it easier to fully step away from the screen.
Not sure which to pick? The classic 25/5 Pomodoro timer is easier to start with when a task feels hard to begin.
Take it with you: the Multi Stopwatch & Timer Plus app
A browser tab can be paused when your phone locks. The free Android app keeps counting in the background and rings even with the screen off.
- Run several stopwatches and timers at the same time
- Alarms that ring with the screen off or the phone locked
- Interval workout timer with sets, work and rest
- Lap times you can keep and share
- Full-screen display you can read from across the room
More free tools
Frequently asked questions
What is the 52/17 rule?
It is a work rhythm of 52 minutes of focused work followed by a 17-minute break, repeated through the day.
How many 52/17 cycles should I do?
Most people manage 3 to 5 cycles in a row, about 4.6 hours for four cycles, before taking a longer break such as lunch.
Can I customize the lengths?
Yes. Type any length in minutes or use the plus and minus buttons to change focus, break and long-break lengths. Your settings are saved in your browser.
