Quick answer: List the domains that cause unplanned browsing, keep necessary research sites available, and start a timed website block before deep work begins. FocusHold can protect the same session from selected websites and distracting apps while one clear goal remains visible.
Why app blocking alone can leave a gap
Deleting or blocking a social app does not remove its website. Video platforms, forums, news, shopping sites, and social networks remain available in Safari. During demanding work, that browser route can become the new version of the same habit.
Website blocking works best when it targets known detours rather than every page on the internet.
Build a small, useful block list
| Type of detour | What to consider blocking | What may need to remain available |
|---|---|---|
| Social feeds | Social-network home feeds | A direct message or work-publishing tool |
| Video | Recommendation and entertainment pages | A specific tutorial collected beforehand |
| News and forums | Home pages and trending sections | A direct research source |
| Shopping | Marketplaces and deal pages | A work supplier or order-status page |
| Work-adjacent checking | Email, analytics, dashboards | Documentation and project tools |
A site can look productive and still be unrelated to the outcome you chose. Judge it by whether it moves the current task forward.
How to block websites with FocusHold
- Define one result for the session.
- Add the websites that normally lead to unrelated browsing.
- Select distracting apps that provide another route to the same content.
- Choose a realistic focus duration.
- Start the session before opening your work.
- Put unrelated thoughts or links on a “later” list.
- Review the completed session and adjust the list next time.
The FocusHold app and website blocker uses Apple Screen Time technologies to support the restrictions you select on iPhone.
Match the timer to the task
- 25–30 minutes: starting a task you have avoided.
- 45–60 minutes: writing, design, study, or coding.
- 60–90 minutes: demanding work when you already have experience with longer focus blocks.
Longer is not automatically better. A completed session creates a repeatable routine; an unrealistic session encourages early unlocking.
Keep required websites accessible
Collect documentation, source material, cloud files, school portals, and client tools before the timer starts. When possible, save direct links so you do not enter through a distracting home page.
If you also struggle with automatic app opening, see how to block distracting apps while studying. To structure the full work block, use the deep-work focus timer guide.
FAQ
Can I block websites without deleting Safari?
Yes. A compatible website blocker can restrict selected domains during a session while Safari remains available for necessary pages.
Should I block an entire website or turn off notifications?
If a notification starts the detour, disabling that alert may be enough. If you visit the site automatically, a temporary block provides stronger friction.
Can FocusHold block an app and its website together?
Yes. You can select distracting apps and websites for the same Focus Session or Quick App Block period.
What if I need YouTube or Reddit for research?
Collect the exact resource before starting and avoid entering through an unrestricted recommendation feed. Keep a site available only when it is genuinely necessary.
Is website blocking useful for short sessions?
Yes. A protected 20- or 30-minute block can remove the small detours that make a short task take much longer.
Protect the browser route
Deep work becomes easier when the same distraction is not waiting in another form. Block only the sites and apps that compete with the chosen result, set a finish time, and return to everything else afterward.
Download FocusHold: FocusHold: App & Site Blocker on the App Store.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I block websites without deleting Safari?
Yes. A compatible website blocker can restrict selected domains during a session while Safari remains available for necessary pages.
Should I block an entire website or turn off notifications?
If a notification starts the detour, disabling that alert may be enough. If you visit the site automatically, a temporary block provides stronger friction.
Can FocusHold block an app and its website together?
Yes. You can select distracting apps and websites for the same Focus Session or Quick App Block period.
What if I need YouTube or Reddit for research?
Collect the exact resource before starting and avoid entering through an unrestricted recommendation feed. Keep a site available only when it is genuinely necessary.
Is website blocking useful for short sessions?
Yes. A protected 20- or 30-minute block can remove the small detours that make a short task take much longer.