the user can log past sessions!

Inspiration

I wanted to study for homework but found it difficult to stay focused without switching tabs or doing unrelated things. I noticed that browsers can detect when users leave a tab, which sparked the idea of using that limitation as a feature instead of a weakness. I wanted to build a website that encourages focus by giving users a reason to stay on one page and fully commit to completing a single goal without distractions.

What it does

Lockstep is a productivity website that helps users focus on one task at a time by locking them into a distraction-free workspace. Users define a goal, choose a focus duration, and work inside the website using a notes editor and checklist. The timer pauses automatically when the tab is inactive, supports breaks, allows adding time, and logs session data so users can review how they worked and improve their focus habits.

How we built it

Lockstep was built as a web-only project. ChatGPT and Lovable AI were used to help brainstorm ideas, organize features, refine user flow, and improve clarity in both design and functionality. The project focuses on simple logic, persistent session storage, and a clean interface that prioritizes usability and focus over complexity or invasive tracking.

Challenges we ran into

The biggest challenge was managing the number of ideas that came up during development. I constantly thought of new features and had to decide which ones actually supported the core goal of focus and which ones would add unnecessary complexity. Another challenge was designing timer behavior that pauses correctly during breaks or tab switches while still keeping the experience smooth and distraction free.

Accomplishments that we're proud of

One of the biggest accomplishments is that Lockstep is something I genuinely use myself. I tested it while studying for homework and noticed that it helped me stay focused and avoid switching tabs unnecessarily. Seeing the concept work in real situations and actually improve my productivity made the project feel meaningful rather than just theoretical or experimental.

What we learned

Through building Lockstep, I learned that focus improves when distractions are removed and structure is added. I also learned the importance of simplifying ideas and prioritizing features that truly help users instead of trying to do everything at once. Beyond technical skills, the project taught me practical habits for managing time, committing to tasks, and staying disciplined during focused work sessions.

What's next for Lockstep, Single-Task Focus & Time-Locked Workspace

The next steps for Lockstep include improving the workspace experience, adding optional user accounts for cloud syncing, and refining analytics to give clearer insights into focus patterns. Future updates will focus on small quality-of-life improvements while keeping the product simple, calm, and centered around single-task focus rather than turning it into an overwhelming productivity system.