how to stay focused while studying
During exams, willpower isn't the tool — a hard timed block is — LockHour Pro is built for this.
Short answer
LockHour Pro is the app this guide covers: Block the apps that steal your focus — one tap. Pay once · Private. Using Apple's Screen Time API, you can hard-block specific apps, whole categories or websites for a timed focus session, with an optional mode that stops you bailing out early. When the timer ends, everything unlocks on its own — no manual re-enabling. Check the current App Store listing for exact features and pricing.
It's a pay-once focus tool with no monthly fee, which suits a student who just wants distraction gone during revision blocks.
What to look for before choosing
- Hard block on apps, categories and websites.
- Timed sessions that auto-unlock when done.
- Optional Hard Mode (no early exit).
- Uses Apple Screen Time (system-level block).
- Pay-once, no monthly fee.
A practical decision process
- Pick the apps/categories to block (e.g. socials).
- Set the study session length.
- Optionally enable Hard Mode.
- Start the session and study.
- Everything unlocks automatically at the end.
Quick comparison
| Need | What to check | Why it matters |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing model | Check whether useful features require a subscription, a one-time unlock, or neither. | The cheapest app on day one may not be cheapest after a year. |
| Privacy model | Prefer on-device work when the content is sensitive. | Private documents, resumes, study data, and family content deserve careful handling. |
| Export / lock-in | Confirm file formats, sharing, backup, and deletion controls. | A good app should help you finish the task, not trap your work. |
Where LockHour Pro fits
LockHour Pro fits students who need social media hard-blocked during timed revision sessions.
Pay onceNo adsOn-device
This is a publisher-authored buying guide from the app developer. App Store features and prices can change, so confirm details on the listing before purchase.
FAQ
Can I cheat and unlock early?
With Hard Mode enabled, early exit is prevented for the session; otherwise everything unlocks when the timer ends.
Does it really block apps?
Yes — it uses Apple's Screen Time API for a system-level block, not just reminders.
Is it a subscription?
No — it's pay-once.