How to use the 5 minute timer
The timer is already set to 5 minutes, so just press Start (or the space bar). When the countdown reaches zero, an alarm beeps, the numbers flash and the browser tab title changes to “Time’s up!”, so you will notice even if you are in another tab. Press Pause to stop for a moment and Reset to go back to 5:00. Need a slightly different time? Change the minutes and seconds or tap a preset.
Things you can do in 5 minutes
- Take a real break — Stand up, stretch and rest your eyes. Five minutes is the classic break between 25-minute Pomodoro focus sessions.
- Brew tea — Most black and herbal teas steep for 3–5 minutes; go the full 5 for a stronger cup.
- Short workouts — A 5-minute plank challenge, a round of jumping jacks or a quick stretching routine.
- Breathing or meditation — Five minutes of slow breathing is a simple way to calm down before an exam or a meeting.
- Classes and meetings — Give students 5 minutes to discuss in pairs, or time each speaker in a meeting.
- Get started on a task — Promise yourself just 5 minutes on something you’ve been putting off. Starting is usually the hardest part.
FAQ
Will the 5 minute timer keep running if I switch tabs?
Yes. It counts down using the real clock, so it finishes on time even when the tab is in the background. The remaining time is also shown in the tab title.
How do I make the timer bigger?
Press Full screen to fill the screen with the countdown — handy for projecting in a classroom or meeting room.
Can I use it on my phone?
Yes. It works in most mobile browsers. Keep the screen on, because some phones pause the browser when the screen turns off, which can delay the alarm.