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20-20-20 Rule for Students

Between lectures, homework, and research, students need regular eye breaks. This timer reminds you every 20 minutes.

20:00
Start your work session
How does it work?
Every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds
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About this timer: 20-20-20 Rule for Students

Why is eye strain a problem for students?

Students frequently switch between laptops, tablets, and phones throughout the day. Online lectures, digital textbooks, research, note-taking, and social media add up to 10+ hours of daily screen time for many college students. This prolonged near-focus work is a major cause of headaches, difficulty concentrating, and blurred vision — especially during exam periods.

Can I use this as a study timer?

That's exactly what it's for. Hit start when you open your textbook or lecture recording. Every 20 minutes, you'll get a quick reminder to look away from the screen. It doubles as a Pomodoro-style study timer with the added benefit of eye protection.

I already wear glasses. Do I still need this?

Yes. Glasses correct your vision but they don't prevent eye muscle fatigue from sustained near-focus work. Whether you wear glasses, contacts, or have perfect vision, your focusing muscles still need periodic rest. The 20-20-20 rule helps regardless of your prescription.

What's the best study setup for eye health?

Keep your screen at arm's length, slightly below eye level. Match screen brightness to room lighting — studying in the dark with a bright screen is the worst combination. Take a longer break every 60–90 minutes to stand and walk around. And use this timer to make the 20-second eye breaks automatic so you don't have to remember.

20
Look 20 feet away
Let your eyes rest and refocus