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As we spend more time on electronic devices, it becomes more necessary to monitor and limit the time we spend on them. Apple’s Mac operating system comes with a built-in feature called Screen Time that allows you to track and control the amount of time you spend on your Mac. However, not everyone knows how to use this feature effectively. In this blog post, we will discuss how to change Screen Time settings on your Mac to help you reduce your screen time and increase productivity.
Video Tutorial:
Why You Need to Change Screen Time on Your Mac
With the rise of remote work and online learning, we spend more time than ever before on our computers. This can lead to eye strain, headaches, and other health problems. Additionally, excessive screen time can lead to a decrease in productivity and cognitive function. By changing your Screen Time settings on your Mac, you can limit the amount of time you spend on your computer, reduce eye strain and other health risks, and increase your productivity levels.
Method 1: Via Screen Time
Screen Time is a built-in feature in Mac that allows you to track and limit the amount of time you spend on your device. Here’s how to change your Screen Time settings:
1. Click on the Apple menu at the top left of your screen.
2. Choose System Preferences from the dropdown list.
3. Click on Screen Time.
4. In the left-hand panel, select the user you want to set screen time for.
5. Click on the Options button on the bottom left of the screen.
6. Choose App Limits.
7. Set the amount of time you want to allow for each app or category.
8. Click on the Plus button to add additional apps or categories to limit.
9. Click on the Play Limits button to set up time limits for playing content, such as games and videos.
10. Set the desired limits for each category.
11. Once you have set up your limitations, click on the Turn On Screen Time button to activate them.
Pros:
– Easy to use and access
– Allows you to limit usage for individual apps or categories
– Can be set for different users
Cons:
– Limited to apps and categories, not specific websites
– Can only track usage on your Mac, not on other devices
Method 2: Via Third-Party Apps
If you need more flexibility than what Screen Time offers, consider using third-party apps such as Freedom or Focus to manage your screen time. Here’s how to use one of these apps:
1. Download and install a third-party screen time management app, such as Freedom or Focus.
2. Launch the app and follow the on-screen instructions to set up your preferences.
3. Depending on the app, you may be able to block access to certain apps or websites, set time limits, or schedule breaks.
4. Once you have set up your limitations, activate the app to enforce them.
Pros:
– Offers more customization and control than built-in Screen Time feature
– Can be used on multiple devices
– Some apps offer additional features, such as blocking distracting websites or scheduling breaks
Cons:
– May require a subscription or payment
– Can be difficult to set up and use for beginners
– Some apps may not be compatible with all devices or operating systems
Method 3: Via Parental Controls
If you want to limit screen time use for your children or other users on your Mac, you can use Parental Controls to set up restrictions. Here’s how to set up Parental Controls:
1. Click on the Apple menu at the top left of your screen.
2. Choose System Preferences from the dropdown list.
3. Click on Parental Controls.
4. Select the user you want to set controls for.
5. Choose the type of restrictions you want to set – time limits, app and website restrictions, or communication limits.
6. Follow the on-screen instructions to set up your preferences.
7. Once you have set up your preferences, click on the On button to enable Parental Controls.
Pros:
– Allows you to set limits and restrictions for multiple users
– Suitable for parents and guardians to manage children’s screen time
Cons:
– Can be more difficult to set up than other methods
– Restricted to parenting features and may not be customizable for individual users
– Only available for managing other users and not for personal use
What to Do If You Can’t Change Screen Time on Your Mac
If you are unable to change your Screen Time settings or encounter any issues, here are some possible fixes:
– Restart your Mac and try again.
– Update your Mac to the latest version, which may include bug fixes for Screen Time.
– Reset your Mac’s Screen Time data and start over by going to System Preferences > Screen Time > Options > Reset.
– Contact Apple Support for further assistance.
Bonus Tip
Consider taking additional measures to reduce screen time, such as setting schedules for breaks, using blue light filter software, and practicing the 20-20-20 rule (take a 20-second break every 20 minutes and look at something 20 feet away).
5 FAQs
Q1: Can I use Screen Time to track my child’s activity on my Mac?
A: Yes, as a parent, you can use Screen Time to track and limit your child’s activity on your Mac.
Q2: Will Screen Time send me notifications when time limits are reached?
A: Yes, you can set up notifications to alert you when time limits are reached.
Q3: Can I use Parental Controls to manage my own screen time?
A: No, Parental Controls are designed specifically for managing other users’ screen time.
Q4: Are there any free third-party screen time management apps?
A: Yes, some apps such as SelfControl are available for free download.
Q5: Can I use Screen Time on my iPhone or iPad?
A: Yes, Screen Time is a feature available on both iOS and iPadOS devices.
Final Thoughts
Changing your Screen Time settings on your Mac can significantly improve your productivity, reduce eye strain and other health risks, and help you achieve a healthier work-life balance. Whether you choose to use the built-in Screen Time feature or third-party apps, it is important to take control of your screen time and prioritize your well-being.