DepthWork is the only focus app built on real brain science — scoring sessions using neuroplasticity research, dopamine mechanics, and flow state detection.
iOS only · No account required · All data stays on your device
How it works
Every session is measured, scored, and fed back into a model of your cognitive fitness — built on peer-reviewed neuroscience.
Define a micro-goal for the session. Activates your prefrontal cortex's goal-holding circuits before you even start.
The app silently tracks session quality. Every distraction is weighted by timing — early interruptions cost more than late ones.
Your Focus Depth Index (FDI) is calculated from interruption patterns, goal completion, and flow state detection.
Streaks, achievements, and a rolling cognitive fitness score show how your focus improves week over week.
Focus Depth Index
Most focus apps measure time. DepthWork measures quality. The FDI formula combines four scientifically-backed variables to give you a true picture of how deep your focus really went.
Completion ratio — how much of your planned session was genuinely focused
Distraction decay — each interruption reduces your score exponentially
Timing penalty — early distractions cost more (the 23-min flow window)
Goal bonus — completing your stated goal adds 15% to your score
Achievements
Every badge maps to a real biological event in your brain — not arbitrary game mechanics.
The science
Every feature in DepthWork traces back to published neuroscience. Here's what's under the hood.
UC Irvine research shows each distraction costs 23 minutes of recovery. Our FDI formula weights interruption timing accordingly.
Repeated focused practice physically reshapes neural pathways through myelination and synaptic strengthening — measurable in 8–12 weeks.
Completing stated goals triggers dopamine release, reinforcing the focus habit. Our goal-setting flow is designed around this loop.
University of Illinois research shows brief breaks prevent attention habituation. DepthWork rewards strategically timed rest, not just work.
Csíkszentmihályi's flow research shows ~25 uninterrupted minutes is the entry threshold. Sessions crossing this earn our rare Flow badge.
2024 research in Scientific Reports confirms pink and white noise at ~45dB improves sustained attention. Built into every session.
Pricing
7 days free on all features. Then choose the plan that works for you — cancel any time.
Early access
Send us your email and get free premium access for 3 months when we launch on the App Store.
Opens your mail app. No forms, no tracking — just a direct email to us.