What Is a Meeting Timer?
A meeting timer is a visual countdown clock that tracks elapsed and remaining time during a meeting. It shows quarter-point milestones (25%, 50%, 75%, done), helping participants pace themselves, avoid overrunning, and respecting everyone's calendar. It's the simplest, most effective way to run better meetings — no apps, no sign-ups, no learning curve.
Why Most Meetings Run Over
Without a visible timer, people lose track of time. The first 10 minutes often drift into casual conversation, the last 5 minutes get eaten by "one more thing," and suddenly a 30-minute meeting has consumed 45. A timer at the front of the room (or on everyone's screen) creates natural urgency around the midpoint and wrap-up milestones.
How to Run a Timed Meeting
- Set the duration upfront — 15 min for standups, 30 for most, 60 max
- Share the timer on screen so everyone sees it
- At 50%: check if you're on pace or need to speed up
- At 75%: wrap up discussion, confirm action items
- At 100%: end. No "one more thing." Schedule a follow-up if needed.
This tool can also be used for presentations, study sessions, pomodoro work blocks, and cooking timers — any scenario where you need a visual progress indicator rather than a simple alarm.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use this timer for a presentation?
Yes — share your screen with the timer visible. It shows progress quarters and remaining time, giving you natural pacing cues without checking your watch.
Does the timer keep running if I close the tab?
No — this is an in-browser timer. If you close the tab, the timer stops. For persistent long-running timers, use a phone alarm or dedicated timer app.
Can I set a custom duration?
Pre-set durations are 15, 30, 45, and 60 minutes. These cover the vast majority of meeting types. A custom duration option can be added.
Is this a Pomodoro timer?
It can be used as one — set it for 25 minutes (choose the closest preset, 30 min) and take a 5-minute break when time's up. A dedicated Pomodoro timer with built-in break cycles is a good next addition.