Research library
The methods, with the receipts.
Every feature in Focus Capsule traces back to a published finding. Pick a method below to read the evidence and where it is weaker than the headlines suggest.
Implementation Intentions
Gollwitzer, 1999If then plans roughly double follow through on goals.
Read the methodUltradian Rhythms
Kleitman; SchwartzCognitive performance pulses in roughly 90 minute waves.
Read the methodDistraction Parking
Zeigarnik, 1927; Eyal, 2019Writing an intrusive thought down releases the mental loop.
Read the methodChronotype Mapping
Roenneberg, 2003; Breus, 2016Your peak focus window is biological, not negotiable.
Read the methodEstimation Calibration
Kahneman, 1979Most people underestimate task duration by a stable factor.
Read the methodActive Recovery
Kaplan; HubermanBrief restorative breaks rebuild attention better than scrolling.
Read the methodShutdown Ritual
Newport, 2016A defined end of day closes work loops and protects sleep.
Read the methodTiny Habits and Identity
Fogg; ClearSmall consistent actions reshape identity faster than ambition.
Read the methodNon Sleep Deep Rest
Walker; HubermanShort structured rest restores cognitive resources without a nap.
Read the methodWhat we will not include
Internal policySome popular methods do not yet meet our evidence bar.
Read the methodCitations are simplified for readability. Where we summarize a finding, we have linked the paper or a survey article so you can verify it yourself. If you spot something we have gotten wrong, write to us and we will correct it.