---
title: "Estimate a task and focus on it"
description: "Give a task a duration, then run a full-screen countdown with pause, reset, extra time, and overtime."
section: "Tasks in depth"
keywords: "focus, timer, pomodoro, estimate, duration, countdown, overtime, concentrate"
canonical: https://kairo.jaimansoni.com/support/focus-timer
---
# Estimate a task and focus on it

Give a task a duration, then run a full-screen countdown with pause, reset, extra time, and overtime.

Source: https://kairo.jaimansoni.com/support/focus-timer
Section: Tasks in depth

## Set an estimate

Open a task, expand **Estimate**, and scroll the hour and minute wheels. Estimates feed the day's capacity line and unlock the timer.

You can also type one while capturing: `review deck ~45m`.

## Start a focus session

Any task with an estimate shows a **▶** button on its card, and a **Start** button in the editor. Either opens a full-screen countdown with a progress ring, already running.

> **Note:** The timer needs an estimate, that's the only requirement. No estimate, no play button.

## The controls

| Control | What it does |
| --- | --- |
| **Pause / Start** | Freezes the countdown, or picks it back up |
| **Reset** | Returns to the full duration, and leaves the timer **paused** |
| **+5 min** | Adds five minutes, whether running or paused |
| **Done** | Completes the task and closes focus |
| **Minimize** (⌄) | Shrinks to a floating pill that keeps ticking |
| **Exit** (✕) | Ends the session, the task is *not* completed |

## Reaching zero

At zero you get a chime and a vibration, and, if Kairo isn't open in front of you, a notification saying **⏱ Time's up**. The timer then keeps counting *upward* in overtime, showing `+4:20` and turning terracotta.

Overtime is not a failure state. The message reads *“Overtime, still going. Respect.”*

## It survives reloads

- Refresh the page and a running session comes back as the floating pill.
- Because the end time is absolute, the countdown keeps burning while the tab is closed.
- Each account keeps its own timer, so [switching accounts](https://kairo.jaimansoni.com/support/accounts) doesn't disturb one.
- Completing or deleting the task elsewhere ends the session automatically.