Find quick answers about using Deep Focus features, from setting up the Pomodoro timer to using YouTube integration for ambient sounds.

General Questions

Is Deep Focus really free forever?

Yes, Deep Focus is completely free to use with no hidden fees, subscription requirements, or premium tiers. All core features including Pomodoro timers, website blocking, ambient sounds, and YouTube integration are available without payment.

How is Deep Focus different from other productivity extensions?

Deep Focus combines the most effective productivity tools (Pomodoro timing, website blocking, ambient sounds, and YouTube integration) in a clean, minimal package without the bloat, paywalls, or subscription models common in other productivity apps.

Does Deep Focus work offline?

Yes, most features work offline. The ambient sounds are stored locally after first use, so you can stay focused even without an internet connection.

Pomodoro Timer

What is the Pomodoro Technique?

The Pomodoro Technique is a time management method where you work in focused intervals (typically 25 minutes) followed by short breaks. This approach helps maintain high concentration and prevents burnout.

Can I customize the work/break durations?

Absolutely! Deep Focus allows you to set custom durations for both work periods and breaks to match your personal productivity style.

How do the notifications work?

Deep Focus provides both visual and audio notifications when your work session or break ends. These can be customized in the settings.

Website Blocker

How do I add websites to the block list?

Click the settings icon, navigate to the “Manage Blocked Websites” section, and add the domains you want to block during focus sessions.

Can I set different block lists for different times?

Currently, Deep Focus maintains one block list that activates during your work sessions. More customization options are coming in future updates.

Will website blocking work in Incognito mode?

By default, no. However, you can enable this in Chrome by allowing the extension to work in Incognito mode through your browser settings.

Ambient Sounds & YouTube Integration

What sound options are available?

Deep Focus offers built-in ambient sounds including Lo-fi music, Rain, Forest, and Thunder sounds. With the new YouTube integration (v1.1), you can also use any YouTube video as an ambient sound source.

How do I add YouTube videos as ambient sounds?

Navigate to “More Sounds” in the extension, paste any YouTube URL, and the extension will automatically fetch the video title. You can also set custom start times to skip intros and go straight to your preferred section.

Can I adjust the volume of ambient sounds and YouTube videos?

Yes, there’s a volume slider in the sound control panel that works for both built-in sounds and YouTube videos, allowing you to adjust to your preferred level (0-100 scale).

Can I use my own audio files or music?

Currently, Deep Focus supports built-in sounds and YouTube videos. Support for custom audio file uploads is on our roadmap for future updates.

Troubleshooting

Why isn’t the website blocker working?

Make sure you’ve correctly added the websites to your block list and that you have an active focus session running. Also check that Deep Focus has the necessary permissions in Chrome.

The extension isn’t showing up in Chrome

Try reinstalling the extension or checking if it’s enabled in your Chrome extensions page (chrome://extensions/).

Why are YouTube videos not playing?

Make sure you have a stable internet connection and that the YouTube URL is valid. Also check that Deep Focus has the necessary permissions in Chrome and that the video isn’t region-restricted.

The extension popup isn’t opening

Try right-clicking the Deep Focus icon in your Chrome toolbar and selecting the extension from the context menu. If issues persist, try disabling and re-enabling the extension in chrome://extensions/.

How do I report a bug or request a feature?

The best way is to email sundancegithub@gmail.com with details about your experience, or create an issue on the GitHub repository if you’re comfortable with technical platforms.

Data & Privacy

Does Deep Focus collect my data?

Deep Focus is designed with privacy in mind. It doesn’t track your browsing history or collect personal data. Any usage statistics are stored locally on your device.

Do I need to create an account?

No account is required to use Deep Focus. Everything works right out of the box.

Is my data synced between devices?

Currently, settings are stored locally per device. Cloud sync is coming soon to allow seamless use across multiple computers.

Ready to Try Deep Focus?

If your question isn’t answered here, check out the About page to learn more about Deep Focus, browse the Updates page to see the latest features like YouTube integration, or install Deep Focus from the Chrome Web Store to start improving your productivity today.