[gsmo]

Though a bit narrow, I have found desktop (menubar) timers with ticking in the background to help a lot. As a matter of fact, I see mine counting down from the 5 min I allocated to check out YC and I can hear the ticking. What has surprised me most is that I haven't yet developed the ability to tune it out - so I always hear it. It also acts like a metronome and I believe it makes me work a bit faster.

[anoojb]

Would you mind sharing what app you use?

[gsmo]

You bet: It's called Timey 3. I got it off the ios app store. $3 USD! https://apps.apple.com/us/app/timey-3-menu-bar-timer/id14211...

[specialist]

Thank you! A talking clock hadn't occurred to me. Sounds obvious now that you've suggested it. I was all but certain that Apple's assistive technology stuff had these kinds of features, but now can't find any clues. Eager to try out your solution.