2 Minute Timer
Two minutes is the classic length for a brain break or a quick write. It's enough time to get something done, and short enough to keep the lesson moving.
How to use it
- The timer is already set to 2 minutes. Press Start or the Space bar to begin, and Space again to pause.
- Press Present (or F) to show it full screen. Pick Pie, Bar or Digits, and choose an end sound.
- When time is up you'll hear the chime and see "Time's up!". Press Start again for another round, or +1 min if the class needs longer.
Ways to use a 2 minute timer in class
- Brain break: stretch, breathe or dance, then straight back to work.
- Quick write: jot down everything you remember from yesterday's lesson.
- Transition time: two minutes to get books out and be ready for the next activity.
Other timer lengths
Questions teachers ask
How do I use a two-minute timer for a brain break?
Start the timer, run a short movement or breathing activity, and let the chime signal the return to work. Choosing Gentle as the end sound helps the class settle afterwards.
Can I see the time running out without reading the numbers?
Yes. The Pie style shrinks as time passes and changes colour in the last minute, so younger students can see how much time is left at a glance.
Does the timer keep going if I switch tabs or my laptop is busy?
Yes. The timer works from the clock, not by counting ticks, so it stays exact if you switch to your slides or another tab. The end sound still plays when time is up.
Will my screen go to sleep while the timer runs?
In most browsers, no. While a timer is running the page asks the device to keep the screen on, and lets it sleep again when you pause or the time is up.
Can students see it from the back of the room?
Press Present (or the F key) for a full-screen timer with huge digits. Choose Digits for the largest numbers, or Pie for a shape younger students can read without telling the time.