> ## Documentation Index
> Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://docs.focusme.com/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.

# Use Focus Sessions

> Start an on-demand focus session with a set duration — block distractions for exactly as long as you need.

A Focus Session lets you start blocking on demand for a set duration. Unlike a Weekly Schedule that runs automatically, a Focus Session only activates when you click **Start**.

## Starting a Focus Session

1. Create a plan using the **Focus Session** timing mode (Step 4 of the Plan Wizard), or click **Start** on an existing Focus Session plan
2. The **Quick Schedule** window appears

<Frame caption="The Quick Schedule window for starting a Focus Session">
  <img src="https://mintcdn.com/focusme/nbDu4PthjSM-lviD/images/focus-session-window.png?fit=max&auto=format&n=nbDu4PthjSM-lviD&q=85&s=26e0d2a8b18ca74b9656eed7ad3c416c" width="685" height="423" data-path="images/focus-session-window.png" />
</Frame>

## Setting the Duration

Set how long your focus session should last using the **days**, **hours**, and **minutes** fields.

Quick-add buttons let you add common durations with a single click:

* **+15m**, **+30m**, **+1h**, **+2h** — add time to the current duration
* Combine quick-add buttons for custom durations (e.g., click +1h then +30m for 90 minutes)

## Optional Delay

Set a **delay** before the session starts. This gives you time to finish what you're doing before blocking begins.

For example, set a 5-minute delay so you can save your work, close tabs, and prepare before distractions are blocked.

## Optional Break After Session

You can configure a **screen break** that triggers when the focus session ends. This is a great way to enforce a rest period after an intense work session.

## Extending a Running Session

If your focus session is about to end but you're still in the zone, you can extend it:

1. Right-click the plan in the Plans list
2. Select **Extend Time**
3. Choose how much additional time to add

The session continues seamlessly with the extra time.

## Reshow on Stop

The **Reshow on stop** option automatically reopens the Quick Schedule window when a focus session ends. This makes it easy to immediately start another session without navigating back to the plan.

## Tips

* **Start small.** If you're new to focus sessions, begin with 25-30 minutes. You can always extend if you're in the zone.
* **Use the delay** to create a ritual. A 5-minute delay gives you time to set up your workspace, close unnecessary tabs, and mentally prepare.
* **Combine with protection.** A Focus Session with Random Characters protection prevents you from impulsively stopping early.
* **Stack sessions.** With Reshow on stop enabled, you can chain focus sessions back-to-back with deliberate breaks in between.
* **Add a break after.** Enforce a screen break after each session to prevent marathon screen time.