What is AdvTimer?

AdvTimer is a free, web-based advanced timer application designed to help you maximize productivity through effective time management. It supports multiple productivity techniques including the Pomodoro Technique, time blocking, and deep work sessions. Unlike basic timers, AdvTimer provides features like multiple simultaneous timers, productivity analytics, focus mode, and custom notifications.

Do I need to create an account to use AdvTimer?

No! AdvTimer doesn't require any registration or account creation. Simply visit the website and start using it immediately. All your settings and data are stored locally in your browser, giving you complete privacy and control.

Is AdvTimer really free?

Yes, AdvTimer is completely free to use with no premium tiers or hidden costs. The application is supported through minimal, non-intrusive advertising that doesn't interfere with functionality. You get access to all features at no charge, forever.

How do I start my first timer?

Starting a timer is simple:

1. Visit the AdvTimer homepage
2. Choose a preset (Pomodoro, Short Break, Long Break, or Custom) or use the default 25-minute timer
3. Click the "Start" button
4. Focus on your task until the timer completes

That's it! The timer will notify you when time is up.

Can I run multiple timers at once?

Yes! AdvTimer supports multiple simultaneous timers, which is perfect for managing different tasks or projects at the same time. You can create additional timers by clicking the "+" button in the timer tabs section. Each timer operates independently with its own duration, name, and settings.

What is Focus Mode and how do I use it?

Focus Mode creates a distraction-free environment for deep work. When activated, it displays a full-screen overlay with your timer, blocking other distractions. To use Focus Mode:

• Start a timer
• Click the "Focus Mode" button
• Use the Space bar to pause/resume and Escape to exit

Focus Mode includes keyboard shortcuts and touch controls for mobile devices.

How do I customize timer durations?

You can customize any timer duration:

1. Click on a timer tab to select it
2. Click the edit icon (✏️) next to the timer name
3. Enter your desired duration in minutes
4. Click "Save" to apply the changes

Your custom durations are saved automatically and will persist across sessions.

What is the Timeline feature?

The Timeline feature allows you to create sequences of timers that automatically progress from one to the next. For example, you can set up a Pomodoro sequence: 25-minute work session → 5-minute break → 25-minute work session → 5-minute break. Once configured, timers will start automatically when the previous one completes, allowing for uninterrupted workflow.

How do Analytics work?

AdvTimer automatically tracks your productivity sessions and provides insights including:

• Total sessions completed (today, this week, this month, all time)
• Total focus time accumulated
• Current streak of consecutive days with completed sessions
• Completion rate (percentage of started timers that finish)
• Most productive hours of the day
• Session type distribution

View your analytics by clicking the "Analytics" tab in the main interface.

What are Webhooks and how do I set them up?

Webhooks allow AdvTimer to notify external services when timer events occur (start, pause, complete, etc.). This is useful for integrating with automation tools like Zapier, IFTTT, or custom applications. To set up a webhook:

1. Go to Settings → Webhooks & Automation
2. Enter your webhook URL
3. Select which events should trigger the webhook
4. Click "Add Webhook"

AdvTimer will send HTTP POST requests to your webhook URL with event data.

What is the Pomodoro Technique?

The Pomodoro Technique is a time management method that breaks work into 25-minute focused intervals (called "Pomodoros") separated by short breaks. After four Pomodoros, you take a longer break. This technique helps maintain focus, prevent burnout, and improve time awareness. AdvTimer has built-in Pomodoro presets that make it easy to implement this technique. Learn more in our comprehensive Pomodoro guide.

How long should my work sessions be?

The ideal work session length depends on your task and personal focus capacity:

• 15-25 minutes: Good for building focus habits or tasks requiring frequent breaks
• 25 minutes (Pomodoro): The classic duration, suitable for most tasks
• 45-60 minutes: Better for deep work on complex problems
• 90 minutes: Maximum for deep work before mental fatigue sets in

Start with 25 minutes and adjust based on your experience. The key is consistency and taking breaks between sessions.

Why are breaks important?

Breaks are essential for maintaining productivity and preventing burnout. Research shows that regular breaks:

• Restore mental energy and focus
• Help consolidate learning and information
• Reduce eye strain and physical tension
• Improve decision-making quality
• Prevent cognitive fatigue

AdvTimer's break timers ensure you don't skip this crucial recovery time. During breaks, step away from your desk, move your body, and truly disconnect from work.

What's the difference between Pomodoro and Deep Work?

The Pomodoro Technique uses fixed 25-minute intervals with frequent breaks, making it great for building focus habits and managing energy throughout the day. Deep Work refers to longer periods (60-120 minutes) of uninterrupted focus on cognitively demanding tasks, ideal for complex problem-solving or creative work. Many people start with Pomodoro to build concentration skills, then progress to longer Deep Work sessions. AdvTimer supports both approaches.

Where is my data stored?

All your AdvTimer data is stored locally in your browser's local storage. This means:

• Your timer settings and history never leave your device
• We don't have access to your personal data
• You have complete control over your information
• Data is available instantly without server requests

The downside is that clearing your browser data will delete your AdvTimer settings, so be careful with browser cleanup tools.

Does AdvTimer work offline?

Once you've loaded AdvTimer in your browser, the timer functionality works offline. Your locally stored data (settings, history) is always available. However, you need an internet connection for:

• Initial page load
• Loading updates or new features
• Webhook notifications (which require external services)

Can I export my productivity data?

Yes! AdvTimer allows you to export your session data in CSV or JSON format. To export:

1. Go to the Analytics tab
2. Scroll to the bottom of the page
3. Click "Export Data (CSV)" or "Export Data (JSON)"

This exported data can be analyzed in spreadsheets or imported into other productivity tools.

What analytics does AdvTimer collect about me?

AdvTimer uses Google Analytics to collect anonymous usage statistics like page views, feature usage, and general geographic location (country/city level). This helps us improve the application. We do not collect personal information, and you can opt out using browser extensions or ad blockers. Read our Privacy Policy for complete details.

What browsers does AdvTimer support?

AdvTimer works on all modern browsers including:

• Google Chrome (recommended)
• Mozilla Firefox
• Microsoft Edge
• Safari (desktop and iOS)
• Opera
• Brave

We recommend using the latest version of your browser for the best experience. Some advanced features like AudioWorklet (high-precision timing) require modern browser support.

Does AdvTimer work on mobile devices?

Yes! AdvTimer is fully responsive and works on smartphones and tablets. The interface adapts to smaller screens, and Focus Mode includes touch controls for mobile users. For the best mobile experience, we recommend using AdvTimer in your mobile browser rather than waiting for a dedicated app (which may come in the future).

Why are my browser notifications not working?

If timer completion notifications aren't appearing, check these common issues:

1. Ensure you've granted notification permissions to AdvTimer in your browser settings
2. Check that your browser allows notifications (not in Do Not Disturb mode)
3. On mobile, check your device's notification settings
4. Some browsers block notifications when you're actively using the tab

The first time you use AdvTimer, your browser should prompt you to allow notifications. If you accidentally denied permission, you can reset this in your browser's site settings.

What is AudioWorklet and should I enable it?

AudioWorklet is an advanced browser feature that provides high-precision timer measurements using the audio processing pipeline. It's more accurate than traditional JavaScript timers but uses slightly more CPU. We recommend:

• Enable it if you need very precise timing (scientific use, testing, etc.)
• Leave it disabled for regular productivity use—standard timing is plenty accurate

You can enable/disable AudioWorklet in Settings → Experimental.

I found a bug. How do I report it?

We appreciate bug reports! Please contact us with:

• Detailed description of the issue
• Steps to reproduce the problem
• Your browser and version
• Device/operating system information
• Screenshots if applicable

Bug reports are prioritized, and we typically respond within 24 hours.

My timer won't start. What should I do?

Try these troubleshooting steps:

1. Refresh the page (your settings are saved locally)
2. Check if JavaScript is enabled in your browser
3. Try a different browser to isolate the issue
4. Clear your browser cache and reload AdvTimer
5. Disable browser extensions that might interfere

If the problem persists, contact us with details about your setup.

I accidentally cleared my browser data. Can I recover my settings?

Unfortunately, no. Since AdvTimer stores all data locally in your browser, clearing browser data (cookies, local storage) will delete your settings and history. There's no way to recover this data as we don't store it on our servers. This is the trade-off for complete privacy—your data never leaves your device, but you're responsible for backing it up if needed.

The timer is running slow or fast. What's wrong?

Timer accuracy depends on several factors:

• Your device's system clock accuracy
• Browser performance and CPU load
• Background tab throttling by the browser
• Running many other programs simultaneously

For most accurate results, keep the AdvTimer tab active and ensure your device isn't under heavy load. If you need extremely precise timing, consider enabling AudioWorklet in experimental settings.

Can I use AdvTimer for critical timing tasks?

AdvTimer is designed for productivity and time management, not critical timing applications. As stated in our disclaimer, AdvTimer should not be used for:

• Medical procedures or health-critical timing
• Safety-critical applications
• Legal or contractual timing requirements
• Financial trading

For any application where timer failure could cause harm or significant loss, use professional-grade timing equipment instead.

Who created AdvTimer?

AdvTimer was created by Andrea Collet, a software developer based in Milan, Italy, with over 17 years of experience in web development and productivity applications. Andrea built AdvTimer to solve his own need for a powerful yet simple timer that respects user privacy. Learn more on our About page.

How can I support AdvTimer?

AdvTimer is free and doesn't accept donations. The best ways to support us are:

• Share AdvTimer with friends and colleagues who could benefit
• Provide feedback and suggestions for improvements
• Report bugs you encounter
• Leave positive reviews or testimonials
• Allow non-intrusive ads (which help cover hosting costs)

Will AdvTimer always be free?

Yes! AdvTimer will remain free forever with no premium tiers or paid features. The application is supported through minimal advertising. Our commitment is to keep productivity tools accessible to everyone, regardless of budget.

Are you planning mobile apps?

Native mobile apps for iOS and Android are on our roadmap for future development. However, the web version already works great on mobile browsers with full responsive design and touch support. We'll announce mobile app availability on the website when they're ready.