Time is your most valuable resource. Waypoint’s timer feature helps you protect it by encouraging focused work sessions and tracking how long tasks actually take.
Why Use Timers?
Research shows that time boxing (working in focused intervals) can dramatically improve productivity:
- Reduces procrastination - Starting a timer creates commitment
- Improves focus - Knowing the clock is running keeps you on task
- Builds awareness - Learn how long tasks actually take
- Prevents burnout - Built-in work/break rhythms
Starting a Timer
There are several ways to start a timer in Waypoint:
From a Task
- Swipe right
- Choose Start Timer
- Your timer will start using the default pomodoro time from your settings.
From AI Suggestions
When chatting with the AI about tasks, it often suggests timers:
“I need to draft the project summary”
AI: “That typically takes 20-30 minutes. Start a 25-minute timer?”
Adjust the timer if desired, then tap to start immediately.
Chip Away Tasks
Waypoint has a specific task type called “Chip Away.” When you use this task type it helps you accomplish large tasks by working at them 10 minutes a day. We use these for things that are overwhelming or generally things we procrastinate on, like cleaning the garage, weeding the garden, or tidying up the house.
The Timer Experience
Once a timer starts:
- Visual countdown shows remaining time
- Notification alerts you when time’s up
- Background tracking continues even if you leave the app (mobile)
Foreground Timer (Mobile)
On Android and iOS, the timer runs as a foreground service, meaning:
- Timer continues if you switch apps
- A persistent notification shows remaining time
- You won’t lose progress if you take a call or check another app
Timer Notifications
When your timer completes, Waypoint sends a notification:
- Sound alert - Audio cue that time is up
- Push notification - Shows on lock screen
- In-app alert - If you’re in the app
Pomodoro Technique with Waypoint
The Pomodoro Technique is a popular time management method that pairs perfectly with Waypoint:
Classic Pomodoro
- Work for 25 minutes
- Short break for 5 minutes
- Repeat 4 times
- Long break for 15-30 minutes
Implementing in Waypoint
- Start timer
- Work until the notification
- Take your break
- Start next task’s timer
Pomodoro Tips
- One task per pomodoro (or break into subtasks)
- If interrupted, either cancel and restart or note the interruption
- Track how many pomodoros tasks take for future planning
Time Boxing Strategies
Fixed Time Boxing
Decide in advance how long you’ll spend on a task:
“I’ll work on this report for exactly 45 minutes, then move on regardless of completion”
Great for:
- Preventing perfectionism
- Tasks that could expand indefinitely
- Maintaining schedule flow
Flexible Time Boxing
Set a duration but adjust based on progress:
“I’ll start with 30 minutes. If I’m in flow, I’ll extend. If stuck, I’ll stop and reassess.”
Great for:
- Creative work
- Problem-solving
- Tasks with uncertain scope
Tracking Time Over Days
While Waypoint focuses on active timing rather than historical tracking, you can build time awareness through:
Duration Fields
Setting estimated vs. actual duration on tasks builds a record of your time patterns.
Task Completion Patterns
Completed tasks with durations show what you accomplished and roughly how long things take.
Timer Best Practices
Start Before You Feel Ready
Don’t wait for the “perfect moment” to start a timer. The act of starting creates momentum.
Honor the Timer
When it goes off, stop (or consciously decide to extend). This builds the habit of respecting time boundaries.
Avoid Timer Anxiety
The timer is a tool, not a taskmaster. If it’s causing stress:
- Use longer durations
- Work without timers sometimes
- Focus on the focus benefit, not the pressure
Timer Preferences
Customize your timer experience in Settings:
Default Timer Duration
Set your preferred default (e.g., 25 minutes for Pomodoro fans).
Combining Timers with Other Features
Timers + Priority
Start with your Most Important Task and a focused timer. This ensures your best energy goes to your top priority.
Timers + the Waypoint Assistant
Ask the Waypoint Assistant to suggest appropriate timer durations:
“How long should I spend on reviewing these documents?”
Timers + Context Tags
Use context tags to batch similar work, then set a timer for the batch:
Work on all “@calls” items for 30 minutes
Next Steps
- Using the AI Assistant - Get AI timer suggestions
- Recurring Tasks - Combine timers with recurring work
- Mastering Task Management - Organize tasks for better timing