Choose the moment and the exception
Observe when the unwanted opening happens: before homework, during a writing block, or in bed. A useful rule names that moment and the app family involved. “No social apps from 09:00 to 10:00 while I draft the report” is testable; “use my phone less” is hard to act on. Keep Phone, maps, authenticator, school or work essentials and your emergency route available as needed.
Apple’s Screen Time guide explains Downtime, App Limits and Always Allowed. Check those built-in controls first. If you want a task before access, a dedicated task-gate workflow may fit better than a passive time limit.
Make the unlock task small and observable
Choose something that starts the real job: write the first sentence, place the textbook on the desk, clear one workspace surface, or start a breathing pause. Avoid an unlock task so large that you simply abandon the rule. Set a short timer and specify what “done” means. Marking a task complete is a self-report, so the rule should support your intention rather than pretend to enforce perfect self-control.
For study, a gate might say: “Before opening a video app, spend eight minutes reviewing the two questions I missed yesterday.” For bedtime, a lighter gate could be “put the phone on charge and set tomorrow’s first action.” These are planning examples, not measured interventions.
App Blocker: Lockscreen uses Apple Screen Time permission to shield selected apps or websites until a timer ends and you mark a small task complete. It offers common and custom tasks, lock styles and private completion stats. The app is a productivity aid, not treatment for ADHD.
Download App Blocker: Lockscreen for iOS ↗Run a seven-day review without fake productivity scores
Record the intended task, whether you started it, and where the rule caused friction. If you repeatedly bypass the block for a legitimate reason, update your exception list. If the task is completed but you immediately return to scrolling, change the trigger or the environment rather than making the penalty harsher.
| Window | Gate task | What happened | Next change |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mon, 9–10 am | Write first sentence | Started draft; needed a work chat | Keep work chat allowed |
| Tue, 9–10 am | Write first sentence | Opened app after timer | Try phone out of reach |
Apply the rule in Lockscreen
Choose the selected apps and websites, grant the requested Screen Time authorization, pick a small unlock task and start a lock. Check the shield on one selected app before relying on it for a long session. Use your answers about distracting apps and a realistic unlock task to create one rule, then adjust it after the week. It cannot read private messages or the content inside blocked apps according to its current listing.
A free starting worksheet
The CSV contains fixed example values, not formulas or an app-import format. Replace them with your own records. No account or email is required.
Review dates, measurements and source requirements for your own situation. The worksheet does not calculate or validate them.
Questions answered
Can I keep emergency apps accessible?
Plan essential exceptions before you start. Apple Screen Time provides Always Allowed choices, and you should test the rule with your actual needs.
What if I keep bypassing the block?
Make the gate smaller, narrow the time window, or change the physical environment. The review log helps find the reason.
Is app blocking ADHD treatment?
No. This guide and app offer a productivity structure; they do not diagnose or treat a condition.
How the app fits: App Blocker: Lockscreen
App Blocker: Lockscreen uses Apple Screen Time permission to shield selected apps or websites until a timer ends and you mark a small task complete. It offers common and custom tasks, lock styles and private completion stats. The app is a productivity aid, not treatment for ADHD.
Download App Blocker: Lockscreen for iOS ↗Check the App Store for current availability, compatibility and any paid features.
Sources and product details
- Apple Support: Screen Time schedules
- App Blocker: Lockscreen on the App StoreCurrent public product details and availability.
Examples, diagrams and worksheets are original. Sources are linked for claims that need verification. This guide does not claim search rank, app downloads or measured outcomes.