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Pensiv includes a timer and stopwatch to help you focus while writing. Use the timer to set a block of focus time, or the stopwatch to see how long you actually work.

Where to find it

Click the ⏱ icon to the right of the top search bar. The timer panel opens. You can choose:
  • 5 min
  • 30 min
  • 50 min
  • Drag the bar to set a custom duration
  • Custom
You can switch between timer and stopwatch in the panel. Timer and stopwatch panel

Using the timer

Use the timer when you want to work for a fixed block of time.

How

  1. Click the ⏱ icon
  2. Pick a duration (e.g. 5 / 30 / 50 min)
  3. Click Start
The countdown runs. When it ends, you have a clear end to the session.

Using the stopwatch

Use the stopwatch when you want to measure how long you work.

How

  1. In the ⏱ panel, choose “Stopwatch”
  2. Click Start
  3. Click Stop when you finish
Total time is shown. Helpful for tracking writing habits or actual writing speed.

Changing timer settings

You can adjust details in settings. Path: Settings → Plugins → Timer Options:

1️⃣ Timer presets

Quick-select durations (e.g. 5 / 30 / 50 min). You can change these to your preferred lengths.

2️⃣ Default mode

Choose the default: Timer or Stopwatch.

3️⃣ Floating widget

You can show a draggable timer widget on the screen.

4️⃣ Menu bar style

  • Compact
  • Expanded
Choose how the timer appears in the menu bar.

When to use it

First draft

Set a 50‑minute timer and write in short focused blocks.

Revision

Use 30‑minute blocks for revision sessions.

Tracking productivity

Use the stopwatch to see how long you actually write.

What the timer is for

The timer doesn’t write for you. It creates boundaries so you can plan focus. Being aware of writing time helps keep pace and efficiency steady.

Summary

  • Open it from the ⏱ icon at the top.
  • You can use either timer or stopwatch.
  • Adjust presets and mode in Settings.
  • Use it for focus blocks and for measuring work time.
The timer makes writing time visible.