How the 52/17 method works
The 52/17 method alternates 52 minutes of focused work with a 17-minute break. The numbers come from a 2014 analysis by the time-tracking app DeskTime, which found that its most productive users tended to work in stretches of about 52 minutes and then step away for about 17.
- Pick one task. Decide what you'll work on before you press Start, and add it to your task list.
- Work for 52 minutes. Give the task your full attention: no email, no messages, no quick checks of your phone.
- Break for 17 minutes. Disconnect from the work completely. A walk, a snack or a chat works better than switching to another screen.
- Repeat, with a longer rest every few rounds. This timer adds a 30-minute break after every four sessions. You can change that in Settings.
Why the long break matters
The 17-minute break is what makes this method different. It's long enough to properly rest, so you come back to the next session fresh rather than just pausing. That makes 52/17 a good fit for long study days, where short breaks can leave you drained by the afternoon.
The trade-off is that about a quarter of your time goes on breaks, so it works best when you use the 52 minutes well. If you find yourself drifting halfway through, try the shorter 25/5 Pomodoro timer or the 50/10 timer.
Making the most of 52/17
Treat the work block as protected time: put your phone in another room and close the tabs you don't need. Use the break to move, because sitting for 52 minutes and then sitting for another 17 doesn't feel like rest. Before each break, jot down where you stopped so you can pick up straight away when you come back.
Frequently asked questions
Where does the 52/17 rule come from?
It comes from a 2014 analysis by DeskTime, a time-tracking company, of how its users spent their working day. The most productive group tended to work for about 52 minutes at a time and then take breaks of about 17 minutes.
Is 52/17 good for studying?
It can be, especially for long study days and tasks that need deep concentration, like writing or problem solving. If 52 minutes is too long for you to stay focused, start with shorter sessions and build up.
Can I change the session lengths?
Yes. Open Settings to adjust the focus, short break and long break lengths and how many sessions come before a long break. Your lengths for this page are saved in your browser.
Does the timer keep running in a background tab?
Yes. The timer is based on the clock, so it stays accurate if you switch tabs. When a session ends it plays a chime and, on browsers that support it, shows a notification.