Focus is a new feature in Windows 11 that helps you minimize distractions. To help you stay on track, it integrates with the Clock app with features like a focus timer and music integration. When you start a focus session, taskbar badging will turn off, flashing of applications in the taskbar will turn off, a focus timer will appear on screen, and do not disturb will turn on. When you’re in a focus session, the following will happen:
A focus timer will appear on your screen Do not disturb will turn on Apps in the taskbar won’t flash to alert you Badge notifications on apps in the taskbar will turn off
You’ll receive a notification when your focus session has ended. If you need to, you can also end a focus session early and start receiving notifications again. Below is how to start and end a focus session in Windows 11.
Start and end a focus session in Windows 11
As mentioned above, a focus session on Windows helps you minimize distributions. When you start a focus session, do not disturb will turn on automatically and silence your notifications. To review notifications that you received during your session, select the notification center. If do not disturb was turned on before your focus session, it will remain on even after your session has finished. Below is how to start a focus session:
From the Windows Settings app
Windows 11 has a centralized location for the majority of its settings. From system configurations to creating new users and updating Windows, all can be done from its System Settings pane. To get to System Settings, you can use the Windows key + I shortcut or click on Start ==> Settings as shown in the image below: Alternatively, you can use the search box on the taskbar and search for Settings. Then select to open it. Windows Settings pane should look similar to the image below. On the Windows Settings app, click the System on the left, then select the Focus tile on the right pane as highlighted in the image below. On the System,> Focus settings pane, select the Session duration tile and set the amount of time you want to silence notifications. You can also choose the following settings while in a focus session:
Show the time in the Clock app Hide badges on taskbar apps Hide flashing on taskbar apps Turn on do not disturb
When you are done with your selections, click on the Start focus session button. You can also start and end focus sessions from Windows Clock, as well as on the desktop focus session window. Start and end focus session from Windows Clock. Select Start > All apps > Clock. In the Clock app, select Start focus session. End focus session from desktop session window. That should do it! Conclusion: This post showed you how to start and end a focus session in Windows 11. If you find any error above or have something to share, please use the comment form below.
