What Is Flowmodoro?
Flowmodoro is a simple version of the Flowtime Technique. Instead of a fixed 25 minute countdown, the timer counts up while you work. When your focus fades or the task is done, you press Take my break, and your break is one fifth of the time you worked: 25 minutes of work earns 5 minutes of rest, 50 minutes earns 10. Nothing rings in the middle of your flow.
Writing and coding
Work where being cut off by a bell costs you your train of thought.
Deep study
Dense material where losing your place at minute 25 means rebuilding context.
Hyperfocus check
Shows exactly how long you've been going, so a long session doesn't turn into a skipped lunch.
Learn your rhythm
After a week you'll know how long your natural focus sessions really are.
Flowmodoro Break Chart
| You focused for | Your break (÷ 5) |
|---|---|
| 15 min | 3 min |
| 25 min | 5 min |
| 50 min | 10 min |
| 90 min | 18 min |
| 150 min or more | 30 min (max) |
Want the full method, including how to log your sessions? Read the Flowtime Technique guide or compare it in Pomodoro vs Flowtime.
How to Use This Timer
- Pick one task and press Start. The clock counts up and shows in your browser tab.
- Work until your focus fades or the task is done. Pause if you get interrupted.
- Press Take my break. Your break is your focus time ÷ 5 (or ÷ 4, ÷ 3 if you pick another ratio), between 1 and 30 minutes.
- Relax until the alarm rings, then start your next flow session.
💡 Don't forget to stop
The risk with any flow timer is pushing on out of habit long after your focus has gone. If you notice you're re-reading the same line, that's your cue: press Take my break. A fixed timer like the 25 minute Pomodoro can be easier on days when starting is the hard part.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Flowmodoro timer?
A count-up focus timer: you work as long as your focus lasts, then take a break that is one fifth of the time you worked.
What's the difference between Flowmodoro and the Flowtime Technique?
The Flowtime Technique (by Zoë Read-Bivens) lets you choose your break and keep a log of sessions and interruptions. Flowmodoro is a simpler version that fixes the break at one fifth of your work time.
How long should a Flowmodoro break be?
One fifth of your focus time: 5 minutes after 25, 10 minutes after 50, 18 minutes after 90. This timer keeps every break between 1 and 30 minutes.
Is Flowmodoro better than Pomodoro?
Not for everyone. Flowmodoro suits deep, creative work; Pomodoro is better when the hardest part is getting started. Many people use both.
Is this flow timer free?
Yes, completely free with no signup. It works in any browser and offline after the first visit.
Related Timers
Need a different length? See all free online timers.