The Time‑Block PlannerTop Pick

What is The Time‑Block Planner?

This spiral-bound planner from bestselling author Cal Newport brings the principles of time-blocking into a tangible format. Designed for individuals aiming to regain control over their attention, it helps you visually structure each day and week to align with your priorities. Over four months of guided planning, it encourages deliberate scheduling and focused living.

How does it work?

• Daily Layouts: Each page features a customizable time-block grid, divided into hourly and half-hourly segments.
• Planning Rituals: Begin your day by transferring tasks into time blocks, assigning each task a clearly defined slot.
• Inbox & Metrics: Use side columns to capture interruptions or quick notes without derailing focus. A “shutdown ritual” checkbox reinforces intentional ending to your workday.
• Weekly Spreads: Dedicated pages support weekly reflection and preparation, enhanced with Newport’s original productivity insights.
• Optimized Design: The updated second edition includes a spiral binding, four months of spreads, rounded cover edges, and an improved introduction—making it flatter, more durable, and easier to use.

Why is The Time‑Block Planner helpful for attention?

It converts vague to-do lists into concrete schedules, reducing guesswork and decision fatigue. Blocking tasks into predetermined time slots boosts accountability, prevents procrastination, and protects uninterrupted work periods—creating a scaffold for deep-focus and creative output. By batching shallow-and deep-work thoughtfully, it aligns your day with your cognitive cycles.

Who is The Time‑Block Planner best for?

• Knowledge workers, creatives, and students aiming to deepen focus and productivity
• Fans of Cal Newport’s work who want to bring Time-Blocking and Deep Work into daily practice
• People overwhelmed by task overload or scattered schedules in need of structured routines
• Paper-tool enthusiasts who prefer offline planning with intentional design
• Anyone wanting to carve out more deep work time without sacrificing balance or flexibility