52/17
52 minutes of deep focus, 17 minutes of real rest.
The 52/17 method alternates longer focus blocks with generous breaks. It suits people who find 25 minutes too short to get into a task.
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Use it in a full sessionHow it works
You work with full concentration for 52 minutes, then step away for 17 minutes. The ratio comes from time-tracking data of highly productive office workers, who naturally worked in bursts of about an hour with substantial breaks.
The long break is the point: walk, stretch, get water, look out of a window. Coming back after a real rest makes the next 52 minutes as sharp as the first.
Step by step
- Choose a task that needs sustained attention.
- Silence notifications and focus for 52 minutes.
- Take a 17-minute break away from your screen.
- Start the next 52-minute block with a fresh mind.
Best for
- Writing, analysis and focused office work
- People who find Pomodoro breaks too frequent
- Half-day blocks of deep work
When not to use it
- When you struggle to start at all; a 25-minute Pomodoro is gentler
- Very short tasks that don’t need a long block
Questions
Is 52/17 better than Pomodoro?
Neither is better for everyone. 52/17 gives more time to get into a task; Pomodoro makes starting easier. FocusKept’s Lab compares your focus ratings so you can see which works for you.
What should I do during the 17-minute break?
Anything that isn’t more screen work: move, hydrate, rest your eyes or get some daylight. Scrolling your phone tends to make the next block harder.
Can I change the numbers?
The 52/17 timer keeps the classic ratio. Use the Custom timer if you want your own work and break lengths.