Otto is more than just a Pomodoro timer. It also includes a website blocker. Unlike other website blockers, Otto doesn't block websites at all times. Websites are only blocked when a focus timer is active. That can be the Pomodoro timer or a task timer.
In Otto, there are two kinds of website blocking.
- Hard blocking (This is what the article is about)
- Autoblock (I'll go more into this in the next pages)
Adding Websites to the Block List:
- Open Otto Chrome Extension:
-
Click on the Otto extension icon to open the main menu.
- Access the Blocking Section:
-
Click on the block icon (the 3rd button in the navigation bar).
-
Ensure that the "Blocklist" tab is selected.
- Add Websites to the Block List:
- In the input field, add the website you want to block. Include the full URL along with "https:" (e.g., https://www.example.com).
- Click on the "Block" button to add the website to the block list.
Now that you've added a website to the list, you're all set. However, keep in mind that the blocking feature won't take effect immediately.
Enabling Website Blocking:
To activate the website blocking feature, follow these steps:
- Start Pomodoro Timer:
- Turn on the Pomodoro timer using Otto.
- Focus Time Activation:
- When the timer is active, Otto will automatically block all websites listed in the block list.
That's it! Enjoy distraction-free focus during your Pomodoro sessions with Otto's website blocking feature.